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What is an End Of Life Doula?
Doula (pronounced Doo-La) is a Greek word meaning ‘Person of Service’.
Death is a situation that we often can not completely prepare for, although it is a natural and unavoidable part of life. Many people have not had much experience with people close to them dying, and because of this there is often a lot of fear, questions and uncertainty.
End of Life Doulas are the ‘informed companion’, providing options and education, and bringing comfort and compassion to assist a person and their family in feeling safe and supported through this important transition. Their role is to accompany the individual and their loved ones through the final months, weeks and days of life – right up until the time death occurs, as well as after death care and into the deep mourning process. This support can be at home or within a hospital or aged care facility.
Presence is the foundation for everything we do. Emotional support, active listening, and creation of a peaceful environment are of utmost importance.
A doula’s support can relieve stress and burdensome tasks from the family, and also gives the dying individual psychological, spiritual and emotional support during the process. We are here to ensure that individuals and their families do not feel alone or isolated.
The Symbolic Meaning of the Owl
In many traditions, the owl is symbolic of death, transition, and important changes taking place. The owl spirit animal is symbolic of a deep connection with wisdom and intuitive knowledge.
Owls are the keeper of spirits of those passed, and they have incredible vision in the dark, helping us manage these sometimes scary, dark places.
This really resonates with me and the heart-centred work I do as an End Of Life Doula, which is why I have incorporated an owl symbol, and feathers, in my branding.
Meet Kim
Hello! My name is Kim, and I am an End of Life Doula. My role is to be a non-medical presence for the dying person, as well as their family and loved ones. I provide support, education, compassion, and options, allowing the individual to have their death unfold in alignment with their wishes. I believe every person should feel safe, supported & guided during this important transition.
I have 20 years of experience working as an Enrolled Nurse within a Palliative Care Hospital. I love this work, and it has led me to where I am today.
Whether you or your loved one is planning for a home death, or a death within a hospital or aged care facility, I will work with you to create a clear plan, and a calm and peaceful environment.
I will facilitate open conversations around the end of life allowing us to make a plan for a preferred way forward. This eases stress, anxiety, and confusion, and allows for a sense of peace and comfort knowing the discussions have been had. We can work together to ensure all your legal documents are up to date which ensures all your care wishes are fulfilled and known. Our discussions will also include funeral preferences and planning.
I would love to share my experience and knowledge with you, enabling a holistic approach to the end of life. My mission is to help others recognise death as a natural part of life and reassure you that it can be a very special and beautiful experience.
I am also part of a team of End of Life specialists who work together at a Holistic, Independent Funeral Director in South Sydney. Therefore I am able to assist you with any funeral questions, planning, and options.
MY QUALIFICATIONS
Certified End of Life Doula, ‘Preparing the Way’ with Helen Callanan
“Deathwalker Training”, The Natural Death Care Centre with Zenith Virago
Enrolled Nurse- Palliative Care.
Member of The Australian Doula College
Member of The National Death Advocacy Network
First Aid Certificate
Public Liability Insurance
Police & Working With Children Checks
Services
EMOTIONAL SUPPORT
- Respite care (hourly or packages available)
- Education for family members around End of Life Care
- Attending doctor's appointments with the individual or family members
- Emotional support & presence for the dying person/ and or loved ones.
- Presence at the time of death (vigil)
- Grief and bereavement support.
PRACTICAL SUPPORT
- Facilitating discussions around end of life preferences between the individual and family members
- Preparing legal documentation
- Making calls and liaising with extra support services
- Funeral and / or wake planning
- Follow up emotional support for family and loved ones
- Cool plate hire- enabling you to keep your loved one at home after death has occurred- slowing down the process, allowing time, before your loved one is collected by your chosen funeral director.
Frequently Asked Questions
End of life doulas are a calming and reassuring presence, with knowledge of the death process. We are a compassionate resource for families who may be overwhelmed and grieving at the impending death of their loved one.
End of Life Doulas offer a variety of services to assist in the transition of dying. First and foremost is a grounding, reliable, knowledgeable, and comforting presence during an incredibly emotional time.
End of Life Doulas can be contacted at any time from receiving diagnosis of a life limiting illness/ terminal diagnosis, or any stage of the end of life process. The sooner the doula can enter into the process, the more time can be spent getting to know the individual and family, creating quality care plans, prioritising end of life needs and creating sacred space and meaning for the individual and family.
Testimonials
Contact Kim
I understand the importance of feeling comfortable and making sure I am the right fit for your situation.
Please feel free to ask me any questions you may have, or if you would like to organise an obligation-free 20 minute phonecall to discuss your needs, please fill in the form below. I will respond to your enquiry within 1 business day.
This is my passion and life purpose, and I would love to help in any way possible.