After spending many years as a health professional working in aged and palliative care, I was aware that whilst community and hospital healthcare teams were providing the clinical expertise for end-of-life care, there were significant periods of time where the dying person and their loved ones were having to negotiate, by themselves, the transition of dying , often feeling quite 'alone', somewhat daunted and sometimes 'scared'... this was whether the person was at home, in hospital or in a nursing home.
For the person who is dying there is a genuine need to provide spiritual & emotional support which allows an avenue for expressing 'what is most important' to that person; what are their priorities and what choices do they wish to make during this end of life transition; and
For the dying person's loved ones - it is important to know that they are 'not walking this journey alone' and that this experience can be shared through informing, guidance and support.
My services as an End of Life Doula: being 'present' to actively listen and hold conversations about life, dying and death; to provide end of life information; offer emotional support and guidance; assist to navigate services and craft life stories: facilitate ceremonies before and after death; provide respite and emotional & practical support for loved ones; and 'hold space' with the dying person as part of natural life transitioning.
End of Life Transitions provides services across Brisbane, Redland and surrounding areas. Jacqui Williams