End-of-Life Doula Services~

For many years, I studied with a Peruvian shaman who instilled in us that it takes energy to live well but it also takes energy to die well.  There are many facets to dying well as each individual’s understanding is influenced by their past experiences.  How does one die well, you may ask?  The exploration of the deeper questions of life such as what is my legacy?  How do I want the process of dying to unfold? What comfort measures can I put in place?  How can my family members and loved ones be supported through this process?  Only you can prepare for your death but you do not have to take these steps alone.  Planning ahead can alleviate the stress and anxiety of the process.  This is where the training and knowledge of an End-of-Life Doula is drawn upon to navigate the unique needs of the client and family members during this time of transition.

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As a UVM, Larner College of Medicine, Professionally Certified End-of-Life Doula, I offer non-medical support through a nurturing presence and compassionate support for the dying, their caregivers, family and friends.  Each situation is customized, with flexibility in mind, to meet the needs of the client and family members knowing that what is necessary in one given moment may not be in the next one.  Together we build a plan of holistic and emotional support that works hand in hand with the client’s caregiver, hospice and medical teams.  

 

How do I support this journey for you and your loved ones?  

Here are a few examples:

 

~Providing information which allows for making informed choices:

    This includes Advance Directives, Living Wills, Wishes for Care 

    Referrals to local professionals and community resources

 

~Community of Care coordination:

    Assistance in the coordination of family and friends to carry out a variety of tasks to support       the client’s daily/weekly needs

 

 ~Physical touch through the use of Shamanic Therapy or Reiki:

    Relaxation techniques to assist with pain and anxiety alleviation 

 

~Aromatherapy:

    Essential oils can provide comfort on all levels, physical, emotional, mental and spiritual 

 

~Legacy projects: 

    Assistance in writing letters, creating memory books or art projects 

 

~Ritual Creation:

    Assistance in the creation of meaningful rituals/celebrations to honor the dying person

 

~Respite for Caregivers:

    Allows the much needed time for self-care

 

~Vigil Planning:

    The creation and coordination of sacred space that includes who will be present, at what             times and for how long during the active phase of dying

     

~Funeral Planning Assistance:

    A comprehensive list of various options available including a list of local professionals  

    Assistance with paperwork as well as contacting local professionals on behalf of the client           and family

 

~Post Passage visit with family members

    Which allows for the processing of the experience for loved ones

 

**Free initial consultation.  Pricing available upon request: 802-440-6459 or                            beccatheweaver@gmail.com 

 

 

“You matter because you are you, and you matter to the last moment of your life. We will do all that we can not only to help you die peacefully, but also to live until you die.”  

                                                        Cicely Saunders, Founder of Hospice

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