Thanks for sharing a fascinating story, OP. I used to believe when you die, you're dead. That's it. Then, I had a heart attack and with it a near death experience. From that other wonderful place I saw this place, and this place is not the reality we think it is. It's more like a dream, or maybe a play (one of many) in which we assume a part. It's brief when viewed from that other place, which is the reality, the permanent place and home.
Peace to you and yours, dear friend!