This phenomenon occurs with such regularity that we often warn families, especially when the dying process stretches over several days, that it may happen. We don’t understand it, but we recognise that sometimes people can only relax into death when they are alone. Are they somehow held by bonds of concern for the watchers? Is it the presence of beloved people in the room that holds them between life and death? Are they choosing? We don’t know the answers, but we recognise the pattern.
