For Immediate Release: December 1, 2025
Media Contact: Cindy Bramble, [email protected], 202-457-5811
Award-Winning Documentary Chronicles Hospice Nurse’s Final 39 Days
Hospice Foundation of America and TGBeyond launch CE program exploring the caregiver-to-patient journey
WASHINGTON — Hospice Foundation of America (HFA) and TGBeyond today announced the release of A Butterfly Has Been Released, an award-winning short documentary, alongside a new professional continuing education program, From Caregiver to Patient: Hospice Nurse Allyson’s Final 39 Days. Pre-purchase is available now, with formal release in January 2026.
The 36-minute film follows Allyson, a hospice nurse with more than 20 years of experience guiding patients and families through death and grief, as she navigates her own final 39 days after a life-limiting diagnosis. Through candid kitchen-table conversations, a 150-person living funeral, and a natural green burial, Allyson demonstrates what she spent decades teaching others: live with purpose, presence, and connection until the very last day.
“I was not lucky enough to know Allyson, but we know her through this film, and through this film, she lives on,” said Kenneth J. Doka, PhD, MDiv, Senior Bereavement Consultant for HFA.
The CE program (1.0 hour) pairs the documentary with an expert panel discussion moderated by Emmy Award-winning journalist Frank Sesno. Panelists include Dr. Kenneth Doka; Natasha Fowlks, RN; and Megan Heller, LCSW.
“At HFA, we know that education can transform how we approach life’s most difficult moments. Allyson’s story offers healthcare professionals and families alike a rare window into the caregiver-to-patient experience—and a powerful reminder that the conversations we have today shape the care we receive tomorrow,” said Amy Tucci, President and CEO of HFA.
The program is available to individuals, healthcare organizations, and community groups. Group licensing supports staff training, community education events, and interprofessional learning.
Availability:
- CE Program (individual and group licensing): hospicefoundation.org/hfa-product/from-caregiver-to-patient
- 72-hour on-demand rental (no CE included): hospicefoundation.org/hfa-product/butterfly
High-resolution images and press screeners available upon request.
About Hospice Foundation of America
Hospice Foundation of America is a national leader in improving the U.S. healthcare system’s approach to grief, loss, and end-of-life care through education, training, advocacy, and public programming. Learn more at hospicefoundation.org.
About TGBeyond
Founded in 2018, TGBeyond creates immersive media that opens honest dialogue about dying, grief, and what comes next. Through transformative storytelling, we help families face the practical, emotional, and logistical challenges surrounding a death with clarity and compassion. Learn more at tgbeyond.com.
###
