Working as a mortician in a major hospital is no easy task; it is reserved for a few dedicated individuals who attend to the deceased as the final responders.
March 11th each year is dedicated to celebrating and recognizing the dedication, compassion, and professionalism of funeral home attendants and morticians across the country.
Their primary responsibility is to prepare the deceased for burial, ensuring that the wishes of the deceased and their families are respected.
According to Jennifer Wambui, the officer in charge of the Mortuary Department at Nyahururu County and Referral Hospital, being a mortician is a job like any other—except that it involves attending to the dead.
She has worked to demystify the myths and fears surrounding those who work with the deceased, noting that morticians, like other professionals, have feelings and adhere to strict work ethics and professionalism. She emphasizes the need for the public to embrace this profession.
Her sentiments are echoed by Lillian Wanja and David Wachira, who explain that morticians act as guides, helping to fulfill the wishes of bereaved families.
They pointed out that while the pain and suffering of loss may be overwhelming, morticians provide a sense of peace and unity during a time that can often seem chaotic, especially when family members come to collect the bodies for burial.
They shared that becoming a mortician requires dedication and extensive training. Morticians are required to study mortuary science and earn an associate degree or higher.
The training is followed by a 1-3 year apprenticeship, and they must also be licensed to practice. In addition to their technical training, morticians must possess the ability to put families at ease during emotionally charged moments.
Working as a mortician or embalmer involves more than just preparing bodies for viewing and burial.
Working as a mortician or embalmer involves preparing bodies for viewing and burial, planning funeral details and providing grief support to families, which requires a combination of technical skills and emotional sensitivity.
