A Mercy of Widows: Disrupting Death with Marcy Lane

In this episode of Disrupting Death, Kathy and Keri chat with Marcy Lane, author of A Mercy of Widows, a debut novel that “interweaves the tapestry of real emotion with the threads of a captivating narrative.” We invite you to sit back and listen as the conversation unfolds about MAiD, grief, Canada’s legal system, and why dogs are simply the best!

At 60, Marcy has transmuted the trials of her own life—including being widowed twice to cancer—into a wellspring of resilience that pours into her character-driven storytelling. Marcy's journey is marked by academic distinction with three degrees, a reflective mind, and a heart devoted to the causes she believes in. Her 24 years at the helm of a charity speak to a lifetime commitment to making a difference, paralleled by the deep empathy she extends to her characters.

Grief's shadow, particularly the complex grief Marcy faced following her second loss, has led to a profound understanding of the human condition, an understanding that breathes life into her tales. A Mercy of Widows is not autobiographical, but the emotions within are a mirror to grief—real, raw, and unfiltered. Now nestled in a cozy cottage in southwestern Ontario with her dogs, Bug and Lucy, Marcy finds solace and inspiration by Lake Erie. Her home is a sanctuary where she crafts stories that navigate through life's thorniest issues with grace and depth.

Marcy’s writing is not just an exploration but a tribute to the resilience and complexity of ordinary folks, shining a light on the silent struggles and unsung triumphs that define us all.

Music for Disrupting Death was created by the ever lovely Sarah McInnis. Sarah is a music therapist, a songwriter, a multi-instrumentalist, and End-of-Life Doula. In 2021, Sarah began The Legacy Song Project, writing original songs for folks at the end-of-life, and for folks who have lost loved ones. To learn more about Sarah, visit her website: https://sarahmcinnis.com

This episode of Disrupting Death was edited by Sadie Mallon.