What is a Doula?
The word Doula is Greek for servant or helper. A birth Doula supports women during the labour process. A death Doula supports a person during the dying process. Today, “Doula” refers to a non-medical professional person trained to care for a terminally ill person’s physical, emotional, and spiritual needs. Doula’s can be secured in times of wellness as well depending on their needs during the dying process.
More people are choosing to die at home, resulting in a widening gap between medical care, and the emotional, spiritual, and physical care required during this transition. End of Life Doula’s support and serve those facing the end of life, as well as supporting the caregivers and family members.
An End-of-Life Doula can also be of service in wellness. A Doula can help with Advanced Care Planning, ensuring your final affairs are in order, act as community resource liaison, assisting with customized funeral planning and more. During times of illness, we can help you navigate the health care system, advocate for you, create a legacy project, offer support to your family/caregivers, assist and help to facilitate goals regarding your care.
When supporting a person in the dying process the goal is to enrich the dying experience while providing support to the family and caretakers, working with your medical team and social workers involved in patient care. The Doula is there to provide a calming, supportive and non-judgmental presence. Doula’s companion with the person rather than treat them.
For additional information check out the Frequently Asked Questions section.
Our Mission Statement
As End Of Life Doula’s it is our goal to engage with our clients to help clarify their values, wishes and beliefs. To support them in developing an end-of-life plan that honours these values. To offer non-judgmental support, a listening ear, a helping hand and a compassionate heart. We will hold space for those nearing end of life and their loved ones.
We are blessed to have this career path appear in our lives and we are honoured to help serve those on their end-of-life journey while creating a safe and supportive environment for them and their loved ones to express themselves.
It is truly an honour to be of service at this vulnerable yet empowering time.