It's one of the most amazing things that somehow.. people who are going to die? They know. I remember my mom telling me about my biological grandfather and how he announced the day and time he was going to die (he had cancer), and he did. It gives you a little sense of comfort to know that the person understood what was happening and had a chance to mentally prepare, as well as letting the family feel that there was some control and understanding to the end on the part of the suffering person. As Sherlock says, work is what you need. *hugs* Not so much you don't have time to think about it at all - you need to think about it a little at a time to reconcile it in yourself, but work keeps that horrible overhang of grief from sneaking up and swallowing you whole into the abyss. :/