End of Life Doula
“To live in this world you must be able to do three things
to love what is mortal;
to hold it against your bones knowing your own life depends on it;
and, when the time comes to let it go, to let it go.”
-Mary Oliver
When we hear the word “doula” we often think of a birth doula, one who assists in the birthing process. A death doula brings that same loving presence and companionship to people in their dying process.
Death can be a beautiful and healing experience, as it is one of the most natural and important parts of life. It is never too early to prepare, so as the time draws closer, our wishes are known and a meaningful completion can be found for ourselves and our loved ones. When the individual who is dying has enough time and well being to do so, I guide them through the process of creating a “spiritual” advanced directive - addressing in a more abbreviated way the topics outlined above in the 3-month coaching process.
As a death doula, I offer non-medical care and support to individuals (and their families) before, during, and after death. After listening deeply and clarifying the wishes of the dying person and/or their loved ones, I tailor my support to fit each unique situation.
Contact me to find out more.
“I met Julie in her capacity at Celia’s House, the stellar Hospice House where my beloved was being cared for. Julie walked into the room in all her beauty and verve and we were gobsmacked! It was clear to me from the beginning that she is an intuitive empathetic. Her inexplicable sense of the needs of others and her very presence made a profound difference in the remaining days for my dear Barbara.”
I was co-producer of the 2019 documentary film RE:MEMBER Where Grief and Beauty Co-exist.
”Years after her son’s tragic death, a bereaved mother is on an impassioned mission to un-silence grief in our modern culture that has buried and forgotten the essential art of grieving.”
The film is available for streaming or download.
“Re-member! We watched it last night and really appreciate the journey of discovery and transformation within the grieving process that you created. It's a powerful story and an important one for humanity and especially westerners, as we collectively move toward whole systems crisis, and potential collapse. Thanks for giving this gift to the world at this time!“
— Duane and Coleen Elgin