Julie McFadden is a hospice nurse who has spent her career caring for people at the end of life, and she often speaks openly about what dying actually looks like in order to reduce fear and misunderstanding. Her goal is to “alleviate the fear and stigma around death,” and she shares her experiences through social media, education, and writing. In her videos, she explains that many of the changes people notice in dying patients are natural parts of the body’s process rather than signs of suffering. One example is Cheyne–Stokes breathing, where a person alternates between rapid breathing and long pauses. Although it can be unsettling for families to witness, she explains that it does not necessarily mean distress. Another commonly misunderstood sign is the “death rattle,” a gurgling sound caused by saliva building up when the body no longer swallows normally.

Julie also describes how the dying process often follows recognizable stages over time. Around six months before death, individuals may become more withdrawn, sleep more, and eat or drink less. At about three months, physical weakness increases, daily tasks become difficult, and social activity decreases further. In the final month, some people may begin experiencing visions of deceased loved ones, pets, or friends, which many hospice workers interpret as a normal and often comforting part of the transition. She emphasizes that these experiences should not always be seen as confusion or fear, but sometimes as a form of emotional peace. Other hospice professionals share similar observations, encouraging families to respond with calmness and empathy. Through her work, McFadden helps families understand that dying is often a gradual, natural process, and hospice care focuses on comfort, dignity, and support rather than giving up on life.