Below is a list of the stages a person might go through in order to accept their own or a loved ones death (or disability). I've found this helpful when writing angsty stories.

1) Denial and Isolation

A person going through this stage:

• talks only about the future

• avoids talking about their/their loved one's illness

• avoids family and friends

• claim the results were wrong

• blame the doctor for their illness

• blame the hospital or agency for "messing up"

• refuse to return phone calls to friends and loved ones

To help someone going through this stage:

• be non judgemental of their behaviour

• do not take anything personally

• be a good listener when they want to talk

• don't push them to see reality

2) Anger

A person going through this stage:

• asks "why me?"

• feel angry that they are dying while others are allowed to live

• may question religious beliefs

• accuse family members or friends of uncaring attitudes

To help a person going through this stage:

• remember that the anger is not directed at you, but at the situation

• visualize how hurt you'd be in their situation

• accept their behaviour as part of process and a sign of change

• don't let the anger alienate you from those you love

• allow yourself a break from the person, but assure them that you're not deserting them

3) Bargaining

A person going through thise stage:

• makes promises to God or another higher power

• agrees to change their lifes if allowed to live

• asks for an opportunity to do something that's special to them before they die or face a disability

To help a person going through this stage:

• Be there to listen when they need to talk

4) Depression

A person going through this stage:

• when something is done for them, responds "what's the use, just let me die" (preparatory)

• say "sorry about being a burden" and then start to cry (reactionary)

• thinks they are "nothing" (reactionary) 

To help a person going through this stage:

• sit and listen (preparatory)

• try and cheer the person up (reactionary)

4) Acceptance

(Only in people given enough time going through the other stages)

A person going through this stage:

• shows a decreased interest in wordly events

• shows desire to be left alone

• has a decreased desire for communication

• increase detachment from loved ones

To help a person going through this stage:

• limit the number of visitors

• show non verbal signs of affection (e.g. hold hands)

• reassure them that it is alright not to talk

From:  about.com