Completing Life’s Journey in Peace

Although we don’t discuss end-of-life issues as a general rule in our society, there comes a time in life when the needs, concerns and wishes of an elderly patient or a loved one facing a terminal diagnosis, can benefit from end-of-life care. As our society ages, there is an ever-greater need for caregivers who can assist in tangible ways.

In addition to the patient, the family often can find a sense of peace and purpose when the topic of death is addressed with compassion and understanding. Fortunately, there are now formal education and training programs for people who provide that care.

Meet Beverly Lewis, an End-of-Life Doula

Beverly is what is known as an end-of-life, or death, doula. You may have heard of or used the services of a birth doula, a trained coach to assist in the other end of one of life’s most important transitions. Beverly has completed End-of-Life Herbal Studies at Sage Mountain Botanical Sanctuary in Vermont, as well as professional certification as an End-of-Life Doula through the Robert Larner M.D. College of Medicine at the University of Vermont.

If You’re Looking for a Supportive Bridge of Care

As natural as death is, it can be a time of great stress or struggle for patients and their families. Beverly uses a toolkit of simple ways to support the family, including teas, essential oils, simple nourishing foods and tonics, and flower essences to provide a supportive bridge of care for during a person’s final months, weeks or days. Beverly works alongside doctors, nurses, hospice workers, Certified Nursing Assistants (CNA’s) and spiritual care providers.

When Is the Right Time to Engage an End-of-Life Doula?

Beverly and other End-of-Life Doulas are trained in providing compassionate, meaningful care for anyone who has entered even a very gradual process of letting go of life, perhaps as much as six months to a year before death. There is not a specified time for speaking with the patient or his or her family about saying a peaceful goodbye. The final passage can even be seen in a positive light when the wishes and concerns of loved ones are considered.

Some of the things that Beverly can offer:

● Assure a patient’s end-of-life wishes are honored
● Take family photos/help the patient to write letters
● Other legacy projects for the patient and family
● Assistance in remembering your loved one
● Emotional and spiritual support for the patient and family
● Provide continuity as care teams change
● Create an environment of peace and comfort
● Understanding of what the final days may look like

Beverly Invites You to Call or Make an Appointment

Wherever you or your loved one is in the process, Beverly offers a phone consultation or in-person appointment to discuss your needs. The goal is to help both patient and the family connect more deeply and lovingly in an emotionally difficult time, and to ease the stresses that may accompany the death of a loved one.