Dying Well: A Catholic Neurosurgeon's Insights on Life and Death

What does it mean to face death well?

When I sat down with Dr. Stephen Doran—a neurosurgeon, deacon, and man who’s walked intimately with suffering—I felt my own fears and assumptions around death get exposed. There’s something powerful about hearing someone who has been at the bedside of so many people say, with deep conviction, that death isn’t just an end… it’s a moment meant to be lived well.

In this conversation, Steve and I talk about the healing that comes when we confront our mortality and the immense dignity that every person deserves at the end of life. Steve shares the story of his father in law’s beautiful passing, the principles every Catholic should understand about end of life care, and the spiritual posture that transforms fear into hope.

If you’ve ever wondered what it really means to “die well”—or how to accompany someone you love through their final season—this episode will give you courage, clarity, and peace. Take a listen.

[01:22] Meet Dr. Steve Doran
[10:39] Living and Dying Well
[22:06] Ethical Considerations at the End of Life
[29:45] The Role of Advanced Directives and Durable Power of Attorney
[32:55] Evangelization in the Dying Process
[36:31] Accompanying the Dying with Compassion
[41:43] The Meaning of Suffering and Love
[43:51] Daily Sacrifices and Preparing for Death
[47:42] Sharing the Good News at Death's Door
[49:53] Final Thoughts and Resources

For more on this topic, check out StephenDoran.com, his book To Die Well, or Ethical and Religious Directives for Catholic Health Care Services.

For more practical advice and experiences from real people sharing their mission with the world, go to https://equip.archomaha.org/podcast/.

A Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha
Editor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)