Just like planning a holiday, preparing for life's unexpected events can be tricky. Careful thought is recommended, discussions with family, drafting documents, then reviewing with your Doctor.
Consider the team of people who could look after you. Are your documents up to date? If something goes wrong, would you like to know that you have plans in place, and your family know what to do.
When facing surgery or illness have you wondered who would help you?.
In 2019 I was single when a dizzy spell turned into a hospital stay and preparation for brain surgery. I scrambled to put things in place, gather a team of helpers, update my legal papers, while shocked and fighting nausea and vomiting.
I wished I had considered these things earlier, instead of in a panic, wondering what if I die?
Luckily surgery was successful. I could not drive for 3 months.
What would you do if your life changed?
Tip #1 - Organised & Stress less
Imagine being able to rest assured, that no matter what happens, and when our time comes, you have the best laid plans, a send off suiting your personality, your loved ones are considered, and your next of Kin know exactly what you wanted. You may even wish to record a video in advance.
Tip #2 - Easy does it - Talk to an expert in end of life plans
A Doula can support your wishes to be surrounded by the comforts of home and your chosen 'family' when significant illness or end of life is approaching. However, it all starts with planning and first priority is Living as Well as Can Be, for as long as possible. What is on your bucket list? What are your priorities?
Dying a 'Good' Death: The Work, Care, and support of End-of-Life Doulas
Tip #3 - Why Choose me as You End of Life Doula (EOLD) ?
I am in a unique place, as I have been a frightened patient myself. I am an experienced Counsellor, Carer, NDIS support worker and End of life doula. My previous career was in hospitals and a cancer well being centre, I had also been volunteering in crisis support, helping people learn to understand, create calm and be open to try referrals to other support services.
Tip #4 - Experiencing or learning about some 'Good Deaths' in the home
My Grandmother was a wonderful nurse, nicknamed the "Singing Sister". I declined to follow her type of work initially. However, I enjoyed being one of her team of carers by her side while she was actively palliative. She died peacefully in her own home as she wanted, a profound experience for those caring for her, without the need of the business of hospitals. Our family had support from Banksia Palliative Care.
My interest came thanks to the Covid Pandemic, I took a careerbreak while studying and loved being a casual carer in private homes, I took my clients out to shows, art galleries, bars, comedy nights, gardens and away on holidays. I sat with carers of Palliative clients. End of life can be whatever and almost wherever you want it to be.
Tip #5 - E.O.L. Doulas are Recognised
End of Life Doulas are becoming more popular in Australia. They help families care for loved ones, offering a welcome break. They assist with advising of new and unique choices. Further information is available via your state Government Health Service, via Palliative Care Australia and you can find your own E.O.L. Doula via End of Life Doula Directory Australia
Beautiful Connections
I love my work and have a few long term clients. Some of them have family and some have none in Australia. The picture above shows me visiting during summer lockdown in a nursing home. Consider who can help you to get yourself organised soon.
コメント