I'm an end of life doula based in Chicago, IL. I'd like to be a part of creating a more death positive culture, which starts with seeing death as part of the life cycle and opening up conversation about death and dying.
I was an elementary school teacher for over a decade before transitioning into doula work. People are sometimes surprised at this, but to me there's a natural connection between the two vocations. As a teacher and as a doula, I'm listening to what someone needs and I'm guiding more than I'm telling anyone what to do. In education, I firmly believe that children should be able to learn about their interests and make organic discoveries. Similarly, as a doula, I am a conduit of information; my job is to help a client explore what a "good death" is for them, not give them answers.
I believe that a doula can be a valuable part of a client's team in addition to nurses, doctors, social workers, and family. A doula can be a holistic caregiver to someone at their end of life transition and be a source of comfort and knowledge for both the client and their family members during a difficult time.