LIFE & FAMILYWe all want to take on the expat adventure with a sense of
renewed energy and commitment. What no expat wants to
think about, let alone talk about, however, is what happens if
they or one of their family members in this foreign land dies.
Death usually brings a sense of loss and anguish for those
left behind, but when it happens in a different part of the
world, these emotions are often amplified and can be even
more profound for those back home. Often, expats don’t
even consider repatriating the departed loved one. I’ve
had conversations with people who have said, “There is
nothing to do. I told my children just to have me cremated
and thrown in the sea!” or “No need to plan anything. They
can just cremate me and throw my ashes in the rubbish”; or
“Maybe my parents would want to see me one last time but
it’s too expensive, so I guess they’ll just have me cremated.”
For more information, visit flyinghome.com.However, the decision to cremate or repatriate a loved one
should be considered wisely. While the family members here
in Singapore will have the opportunity to see their loved
one a final time before the cremation occurs, it’s a different
story for the people back home. They’re not given a chance
for that final touch, a kiss on the forehead, a stroke of the
hair or holding a hand in theirs one last time. For those
not present, it makes it difficult to believe and accept that
the person they love is dead. The grief and healing process
becomes harder, and the denial stronger, when you don’t
get to say goodbye.Questions to ask
There are some things you should figure out before you
face a situation like this. Does the family want to be present
for the funeral? Does your employer cover the cost of
repatriation back to your country? If you’re to be cremated,
what should be done with the ashes? What kind of service
do you want? Do you want a memorial service here and at
home? As awful as it might be to think about these things
today, it’s far easier to figure this all out when you’re not
immersed by the emotions surrounding death.
Arranging for services, repatriation, documentation and
more may seem overwhelming, which is where Flying Home
comes in. We handle everything, from organising death
certificates and export permits, to the legalisation of all
forms by governing organisations. The process of expediting
a repatriation is determined by the country to which they
are returning, as well as flight schedules. This process can
take anywhere from 36 hours to five weeks. We can also help
with arrangements for wake services, religious rites, booking
of the flight for repatriation, fees and transportation. We
can even help survivors contact relatives, friends and co-
workers. Our job is to make your grief easier.
From one expat to another, I urge you to put your affairs
in order. Then go on living and enjoy your family, friends,
work – and your life abroad!Would you know what to do if somebody
you love died a long way from home?
DEBORAH ANDRES, the CEO of Flying
Home, offers some wise words we
should all ponder.