It began with a soft voice in her right ear.

“In two months, you will die,” the voice whispered in a strangely comforting tone, “but you will be okay.”

Heather’s chronic illness worsened. Her weight shrank to a dangerous level. Infection confined her to an ICU and a ventilator.

The first time she left her body, she watched from an elevated position as medical professionals worked to resuscitate her.

She was so sick for so long Heather left her body repeatedly and eventually realized she could leave at will. Sometimes, she’d leave the hospital to check on her family. Sometimes, when her fever raged, she’d be taken to a beautiful Romanesque fountain that felt ancient and sacred. She’d wash in the pure water until her soul felt whole and healed. Then she’d return to her body.

Heather saw angels comforting other patients. And when someone died, the angels gathered and comforted grieving families.

When Heather stood at the entrance of heaven, she saw a path lined with beings of light. She knew it led to her deceased grandmother, and she knew she wasn’t permitted to go. She was told it wasn’t her time. Hoping to circumvent the rules, she didn’t ask to proceed down the path. Instead, she asked to see her grandmother. She immediately found herself back in her body.

On one occasion, Heather saw an elderly man with two children. Years later, she found those children and adopted them. Finally, after 25 years, she’s sharing her story.

Someone you know has had an experience similar to Heather’s. They’re waiting for a safe space to share.

Be a safe space. Listen.