I am an anesthesiologist, and I have always been driven by a deep curiosity about the limits of consciousness and the intersection between science and phenomena we still can’t fully explain. This curiosity led me to enroll in a course offered by the Icloby Foundation on near-death experiences (NDEs)—a decision that turned out to be profoundly transformative, both professionally and personally.
Throughout the course, I engaged in a rigorous study of NDEs through scientific research, philosophical analysis, and personal testimonies. I learned about the recurring patterns in these accounts, the various neuroscientific theories that attempt to explain them, and, most importantly, the emotional and existential impact these experiences have on those who go through them. I was surprised by the consistency among testimonies and how, beyond any physiological explanation, these experiences seemed to touch on something deeply human.
The course not only provided me with valuable academic tools, but also with a profound personal growth experience. Group work encouraged an enriching exchange of ideas and open dialogue with people from diverse backgrounds who shared a common interest in understanding what lies beyond the threshold of death. This collaborative approach created a warm, empathetic learning environment. Additionally, the faculty showed strong commitment to the subject matter, offering high-quality, up-to-date, and sensitive instruction.
Motivated by what I had learned, I chose to become more involved and began collaborating with the Icloby Foundation on the Luz Project as the lead researcher at the hospital where I work. This initiative aims to gather and analyze testimonies from people who have experienced an NDE, with the goal of deepening our understanding and exploring their implications from a multidisciplinary perspective. It has been a privilege to contribute my medical background to the project, supporting the development of a scientific yet respectful and human approach.
One of the most meaningful tasks I undertook was interviewing individuals who had undergone a near-death experience. Listening to their first-hand accounts was incredibly moving. Many described a sense of absolute peace, out-of-body experiences, encounters with calming presences, and even life reviews. In most cases, these experiences led to profound changes in their lives—a greater appreciation for the present, more conscious relationships, and reduced fear of death.
Each testimony left a mark on me. It led me to question previously held certainties, to view my own medical practice through a new lens, and to reinforce the need to approach these phenomena with sensitivity, respect, and an open mind. I realized that studying NDEs requires more than just the traditional scientific method: it demands an integrative perspective that includes emotional, spiritual, and subjective dimensions.
My journey with the Icloby Foundation and the Luz Project continues. This experience has not only broadened my scientific horizons but also enriched my understanding of the human being and our complexity. I am convinced that, through an interdisciplinary and deeply human approach, we can continue to shed light on these phenomena and contribute to a more comprehensive understanding of life, death, and consciousness.
Dr. Marissa Casabonne, MD
