Ask a Death Doula Suzanne B. O’Brien RN

Guiding Lights in the Passage from Life to Death with Judi Arasi
Join us as we shine a spotlight on Judi Arasi, a remarkable graduate from the Dula Giver Practitioner program, whose journey into becoming a death doula is nothing short of inspiring. Judi shares the pivotal moment that propelled her towards this calling—the death of her mother-in-law—which revealed to her the pressing need for a more informed and compassionate approach to end-of-life care. Our conversation with Judi illuminates the critical role of death doulas in offering solace and support to families navigating this profound chapter of life, and underscores the burgeoning global recognition of death as an intrinsic human experience rather than a medical event. Listen in as Judi's personal narrative captures the transformative power of embracing one's true purpose in serving others during life's final moments.
 
In this heartfelt exchange, I reflect on the life-altering lessons learned from my vocation in end-of-life care. The profound privilege of being invited into the intimate space of people's homes during times of crisis has reshaped my outlook, instilling in me an appreciation for gratitude, forgiveness, and the art of cherishing human connections. I recount poignant interactions with patients and their families, emphasizing the deep bonds and the sense of extended family that emerges from this unique form of caregiving. This conversation culminates with the emotional recounting of being honored with the National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization Volunteer of the Year Award for 2023, a testament to the significant impact that compassion and companionship have in the lives of those we serve. Tune in as we explore these touching moments and celebrate the indelible impact of end-of-life care on both the giver and receiver.
 
 
We dive into:
(04:47 - 06:03) Discovery of Doula Calling(19:45 - 21:02) Supporting End-of-Life Choices With Doulas(23:16 - 23:51) Becoming a Doula
 
 
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Links mentioned in this episode:
Doulagivers Institute
The NEXT Free Level 1 End of Life Doula Training Registration LINK 
The NEXT Free Doulagivers Discovery Webinar 
 
80-90% of a positive end of life depends on these two things:
Knowing the basic skills on how to care for someone at the end of life and planning ahead - and BOTH Doulagivers Institute is giving you for FREE!
Access them Below!
Making your wishes known is one of the greatest gifts you can give to your loved ones. Download The Doulagivers 9 Choice Advance Directive now! It's FREE!
 
More about what we do at Doulagivers Institute - Click here!
Learn more about Judi - Click here!

This podcast episode explores the often-taboo topic of death and how engaging in open conversations with children about mortality can foster a healthy understanding and reduce fear. The host reflects on hospice experiences and the wisdom of the dying, emphasizing the importance of living with authenticity and passion. Personal narratives and the emerging Death Doula movement are discussed, highlighting the need to prioritize what truly matters in life. The episode concludes with practical advice on age-appropriate discussions with children about death and an invitation for listeners to incorporate these insights into their lives.

In this podcast episode, Suzanne and Kim Adams, an advocate for compassionate end-of-life care and member of the Omega Home Network, discuss the importance of community homes for those dying without family support. They delve into the challenges and practicalities of setting up such homes, including the need for local community support and philanthropy, given the absence of government funding. The Omega Home Network’s work providing non-medical, social model homes for end-of-life care is discussed. The episode also includes a call to action for community involvement in end-of-life care and an invitation to an upcoming conference in Indianapolis on the same topic.

In this podcast episode, the host, Suzanne O’Brien, explores the dichotomy between the ego and the heart, two internal guidance systems that shape our life decisions. She introduces listeners to her ’RAI technique,’ a method to discern and align with one’s true purpose by listening to the heart’s guidance over the ego’s fear-based analysis. Suzanne emphasizes the importance of trust, faith, and love in navigating life and shares her personal journey from New York City to Charlotte, North Carolina, as an example of overcoming ego-driven fears. The episode also discusses different states of consciousness and the spiritual lessons from end-of-life patients. Additionally, listeners are invited to join a free Level One End of Life Doula training to embrace spiritual growth and rediscover life’s true calling.

In this podcast episode, Suzanne O’Brien shares her personal experience with caregiving during her father’s final days and offers insights into the challenges and essential considerations of end-of-life care. She emphasizes the importance of a support system scheduler to coordinate the efforts of family, friends, and death doulas to provide comfort and assistance. Susanna highlights the physical and emotional toll on caregivers and the significance of community involvement. Additionally, she extends an invitation to a free training for individuals interested in becoming death doulas, with the aim of building a compassionate community equipped to handle end-of-life care.

This podcast episode explores the role and impact of Death Doulas, professionals who provide comfort and support to individuals nearing the end of their life. The host, Suzanne O’Brien, shares her experience as a hospice nurse and discusses the gaps in the hospice system, emphasizing the need for compassionate, individualized end-of-life care. She explains the training required to become a Death Doula, the importance of early planning for end-of-life wishes, and the potential for a rewarding career in this field. The episode covers the similarities between birth and death doulas, the shortcomings of traditional healthcare systems during crises like COVID-19, and the value of personalized care plans. Transcript samples offer insights into the necessary skills, training, and dedication required to excel as a Death Doula, including practical advice for those interested in the profession.