The Dignified Death Doula

05/02/2025

When our mother, AH, was diagnosed with a life-shortening illness, she made it clear that she wanted to spend her final days at home, in her own bed, surrounded by the people she loved. Thanks to her advance plan and the unwavering support of her doctor, district nurses, and, most importantly, our end-of-life Doula, Helen, we were able to honor her wishes.

Helen was our guiding light throughout this journey. She held space for our mother with such tenderness, ensuring she felt safe, secure, and deeply cared for in her final week of life. Her presence gave us the strength and clarity to support our mother in the way she had envisioned.

On her last day, AH passed peacefully at home, with all of us by her side. It was a moment filled with love, not fear—something we couldn’t have navigated without Helen’s wisdom and compassionate support. The difference she made in this experience is immeasurable, and we will always be grateful for the guidance she provided during one of the most profound times in our lives.

10/09/2024

How can we bring death and dying back into
the community? Opening up and having conversations with those close to you is a good place to start.

08/09/2024

Definitely adding this book to my reading list and always hoping I can take this approach too when my turn comes.

The aid worker Simon Boas touched the hearts of millions with his funny, thoughtful reflections on his terminal cancer diagnosis. This week his book, A Beginner’s Guide to Dying, is published posthumously

07/09/2024

Reposting what is probably my favourite media article about end of life doulas to date. Particularly thanks to the amazing raw and real stories from Mary Clear who I know inspires so many of us (love the bluntness of the opening). Brilliant contributions also from Li Mills Danny Cooklin Katie Rose Whiting 😊

Five end-of-life doulas reflect on death, activism and what it means to walk alongside the dying.

06/09/2024

Alzheimer’s, a progressive neurodegenerative disease, leads to a decline in memory, cognitive function, and the ability to perform everyday tasks, which can make the end of life experience particularly challenging for both an individual and those important to them.

End of life doulas provide a holistic, compassionate approach to caring for individuals with Alzheimer’s at the end of life. Their role complements medical care by focusing on emotional, psychological, and spiritual support, which can make the final stages of life more meaningful and peaceful for both the person with Alzheimer’s and those important to them. Through their presence, advocacy, and care, they can help provide a dignified and respectful end of life experience.

25/08/2024

https://www.bellacouche.com/

Felt coffins and funeral product alternatives for a green funeral. Perfect for natural burial. Handmade felt crafts, kits and workshops on Dartmoor, Devon.

20/08/2024

Assisted dying: first-hand accounts of what it’s like to help a loved one die
https://theconversation.com/assisted-dying-first-hand-accounts-of-what-its-like-to-help-a-loved-one-die-234831?fbclid=IwY2xjawEYbdxleHRuA2FlbQIxMQABHYOpakwi4ijiM955rL61G1sQGzorIgmVM1kW6RvJX8N5teHnUHBCkohqMA_aem_KF4kscCoR5Bsn5A3N9OKYA

Choosing to hasten one’s death is an intensely personal, carefully considered decision. But it is rarely made in isolation.

09/08/2024

https://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/2016/feb/03/death-doulas-women-who-stay-by-your-side-to-the-end

They are not medical experts, but they work alongside NHS staff in hospices or the community to help patients take control over their final days