KC End of Life

08/25/2026

At KC End of Life, we know that one doula can make an incredible difference.
But we also know that community creates even greater care.

Read AJ Stutzer's August blog to learn why community is at the heart of everything we do.

Blog link: https://kcendoflife.org/blog-and-resources/f/how-community-care-can-transform-end-of-life-support

08/24/2026

KCEoL Weekly Newsletter: August 24th-August 30th
Being Present: Reflections on the When You Die Trilogy

We recently completed our screening of the When You Die Trilogy with its third and final documentary, Architecture of Death: The Inner World of Dying.

Each film offered a thoughtful and compassionate exploration of death, dying, and what it means to accompany someone at the end of life. We are grateful to everyone who joined us and contributed to the meaningful conversations that followed each screening.

One idea from Architecture of Death especially stayed with me: we often remember deaths with extraordinary clarity because the intensity of the experience pulls us completely into the present moment. It reminded me again of birth, another profound threshold when our senses become heightened and time seems to stand still.

I vividly remember the birth of each of my children. In much the same way, I remember the deaths of each person I have had the honor of accompanying. I remember the atmosphere of the room, the people gathered, the sounds, the quiet, and the sacred weight of those final moments.

I truly feel that is the essence of what doulas do: we help people be present. We support the person who is dying in remaining connected to their wishes, needs, and experience. We help loved ones slow down, understand what is happening, and recognize that they do not have to fix the moment, they can simply enter it with love. And we remind ourselves to remain grounded and open as we bear witness.

Being present does not make dying easy or take away grief. It allows us to meet the experience as it is: with compassion, intention, and the understanding that even in life’s most difficult moments, there can be meaning, connection, and love.

08/22/2026

Today is the day!

Aug 22nd, 2:00pm-4:00pm

Join us for the online screening of the third movie in the When You Die trilogy as we gather for reflection, conversation, and community. This powerful film invites us to explore death, dying, and what it means to live fully through honest and compassionate storytelling. Whether you’re curious about end-of-life care, passionate about changing the conversation around death, or simply looking for meaningful connection, we’d love for you to be part of this special event.

RSVP Here:

The When You Die Trilogy, a powerful three-part documentary series by Johanna Lunn exploring death, dying, consciousness, caregiving, and the profound human…

08/21/2026

Aug 22nd, 2:00pm-4:00pm

Join us for the online screening of the third movie in the When You Die trilogy as we gather for reflection, conversation, and community. This powerful film invites us to explore death, dying, and what it means to live fully through honest and compassionate storytelling. Whether you’re curious about end-of-life care, passionate about changing the conversation around death, or simply looking for meaningful connection, we’d love for you to be part of this special event.

RSVP here: https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/when-you-die-trilogy-movie-screening

08/20/2026

Check out AJ's blog at

https://kcendoflife.org/blog-and-resources/f/how-community-care-can-transform-end-of-life-support

08/19/2026

Join KC End of Life doula Kathy Benich as she explores the role of an end-of-life doula. This informative webinar is happening TONIGHT from 5–6 p.m. We hope you’ll join us!

Zoom Link: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/82587300161

08/19/2026

08/19/2026

KCEoL Newsletter Week of August 17th
Honoring Life’s Transitions: What We Learned from Birth Doula Training

Last weekend, members of our team had the incredible opportunity to participate in a birth doula training. It was a beautiful and meaningful experience that allowed us to expand our knowledge while looking at doula care from another perspective. Although birth and death may seem like opposite ends of life, we were amazed by how much birth doulas and end-of-life doulas have in common.

Both birth and death are natural, profound transitions that can bring uncertainty, fear, vulnerability, joy, grief, and love. During these moments, doulas offer a calm and compassionate presence. We do not direct the experience or make decisions for the people we serve. Instead, we listen, provide education, offer reassurance, advocate for personal wishes, and help individuals and families feel more prepared and supported.
Birth and end-of-life doulas also share many of the same approaches to care, including:
* Creating a peaceful and comforting environment
* Honoring each person’s values, beliefs, culture, and choices
* Providing emotional, practical, and nonmedical support
* Helping individuals and families understand their options
* Encouraging informed and empowered decision-making
* Advocating for the wishes of the person receiving care

Supporting partners, caregivers, and other family members. Working alongside medical professionals as part of the broader care team. Remaining present when families feel overwhelmed, uncertain, or afraid. Holding space for whatever emotions arise without judgment. Recognizing that every person and every experience is unique.

One of the most meaningful similarities is the importance of presence. Doulas understand that we do not always need to fix what is happening. Sometimes the greatest gift we can offer is to sit beside someone, listen deeply, provide reassurance, and remind them that they are not alone. Whether someone is welcoming a new life or preparing to say goodbye, compassionate presence can help transform an uncertain experience into one that feels more supported, intentional, and sacred.

08/14/2026

Community doesn't replace caregivers, it strengthens them.

Read this month's blog by KC End of Life doula AJ Stutzer to learn why building your village matters long before a crisis begins.
Blog link: https://kcendoflife.org/blog-and-resources

08/11/2026

Community care is deeply personal because it reflects who we are.
Read AJ Stutzer's August blog to discover how everyday relationships can become extraordinary gifts during life's final chapter.
Blog link: https://kcendoflife.org/blog-and-resources

💙 Small acts. Lasting impact.