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End of Life Care.
Death is a natural part of life, yet our fear of it often creates unnecessary pain and prolonged grief. Openly discussing and planning for the end of life allows us to honor life itself, ease suffering, and ensure our final days reflect our wishes. Thoughtful preparation is one of the greatest acts of love we can offer ourselves and those we cherish.
End of Life Planning.
What is a good death? How do you want to live the last months, weeks, days, or hours of life? Who do you want around you, what do you want your physical space to be like, and what do you want to touch, smell, or hear? Is there anyone you want to forgive or be forgiven by? How do you want to be remembered? Do you want to craft an Ethical Will? We can work together to make the end of life be as vibrant and productive as possible, and work toward your vision of a good death.
Advanced Directives.
Having an advanced directive can determine the course of your medical care, should you not be able to give consent or direction yourself. Maybe you want a "do not resuscitate" clause or want to know more about VSED or organ donation. Working together, we can document your choices so your loved ones and care providers have a plan to follow that will support your wishes.
Legacy Projects.
Leaving a legacy not only memorializes our lives but also helps our loved ones remember us well and often while easing the pain of grief. A memorial project can be as simple as writing postcards or letters to our loved ones, or as involved as creating a video, archive, or quilt. It invites us to reflect upon life and to share and record personal stories as well as advice to others. It can also be a beautifully collaborative effort of remembrance after someone has died.
Vigil Sitting.
Even when we are no longer able to respond to others, we are still alive until the very moment we die. Part of having a better death is not being alone for our last breaths. By holding vigil at the bedside of the dying, we honor their last hours of life, providing comfort and reassurance simply by being present and keeping them company. During this time, we also work to uphold the end-of-life wishes of the dying person and provide respite care to support their loved ones.
