01/13/2020
What in the WORLD is an End of Life Doula?
Great question! As an End of Life Doula my job description looks something like this;
-Working alongside the family and medical professionals to provide non-medical care, guidance, support.
-Fill gaps in care for the client and their families (perhaps it's as simple as finding someone to walk the dog, or determining where each meal will come from)
-Provide information and resources where needed and appropriate.
-Working with family and client to determine priorities for spiritual, emotional, and physical care.
-Communication and helping to plan for end of life wishes and preferences.
-Understand, support, and acknowledge the client’s experience (even when it’s pain and suffering).
-Assist in legacy projects (scrapbooks, videos, letters, etc)
-Journey with clients to understand their spiritual needs and beliefs.
-Hold the space – a calm in the storm; level-headed and steady.
-Introduce sacredness by discovering what makes the client feel safe, loved, special, peaceful, joyful - and surround them with those things.
-Listen and mediate where necessary on the clients behalf, whether it is family, or even playing politics at a care facility.
-Unique to my practice, I am able to offer therapeutic yoga techniques, as well as Reiki therapy for the patient and family as needed.
My role is as a guide, support, and comfort. A professional friend to help you and your family in one of the hardest times in life. Having this type of additional support is imperative to guiding this transition and all of the moving parts that surround end of life.
My goal with this platform will be to continue to post to inform, educate, support, and stir up some heartfelt conversation. I hope that you will reach out with questions, or referrals!
-Sarah
