June 4, 2025
Dr. Mary Neal, an orthopedic surgeon who lost her life in a kayaking accident in Chile and went to Heaven, recorded her experiences in the bestseller “To Heaven and Back.” In her second book, “7 Lessons from Heaven,” she shares the encounter she had with Jesus and the insights she gained from her near-death experience, which offer hope for all of us, especially those dealing with grief who worry over the loss of a loved one. The following excerpt is taken from “7 Lessons from Heaven:”
“Even more common are reports from people who are dying, seeing something or talking to someone not visible to the others in the room. They often see the beauty of heaven, a mother or mother figure, siblings, or people who weren’t yet known to have died. They often talk about getting ready for a trip, ask about their luggage or tickets, describe angels, or mention the name of the person who is coming to get them….
“Stories of deathbed visions (DBVs) are even more common than near-death experiences and, similar to NDEs, have been described since antiquity. A DBV often gives a dying person a glimpse of deceased loved ones. Or angels appear to help them make their transition to the next world. These DBVs occur in the days, hours, or moments before death. I have read estimates that one-half to two-thirds of dying people report experiencing DBVs….
“In the case of those who are dying, out-of-body visitors and heavenly messages unquestionably ease the departing one’s fears. But overwhelmingly, their purpose is simple and profound: to reassure people at their most vulnerable time that they are deeply, personally, and everlastingly loved by God.”
***
Sign Up for Healing Journey Messages
Receive a daily message to your email address.