Author Archives: susandoulamn

A Simple Chair Ritual for Comfort

Years ago, I was geographically far from a loved one when they were gravely ill.  Feeling lonely and helpless can be overwhelming.  If we can take a moment to catch our breath, those feelings will slowly get smaller and we can give ourselves the space to honor our loved one.  The following chair ritual wasContinue reading “A Simple Chair Ritual for Comfort”

End-of-Life Doula Hotline

A group of doulas trained in compassionate listening, have launched a toll-free hotline for those who are struggling during the Covid-19 pandemic.  I am humbled to be a part of this group – offering time and deep listening to those who are hurting and may not know where to turn for help.  Along with listening,Continue reading “End-of-Life Doula Hotline”

National Healthcare Decisions Day

National Healthcare Decisions Day is today!  This day is on the calendar to educate the public and the healthcare community about, well, their healthcare decisions.  So many people avoid the conversation and the decision-making process because they are not sure what they want or what the future might hold.  I advise my clients to planContinue reading “National Healthcare Decisions Day”

Loving, Living, and Dying During Covid 19

A group of end of life professionals gathered over Zoom (following our guidelines, right?) and created a resource guide on grief and loss during the Covid 19 pandemic.  These are times like no other, so it is a time to find new ways to do almost everything.  We aren’t able to be at our lovedContinue reading “Loving, Living, and Dying During Covid 19”

Peace in a Time of Chaos

We are facing unprecedented times right now (at least for my generation).  I am shocked at the empty shelves in the grocery store.  I have never seen a line in Target waiting for the toilet paper to be unloaded from a truck that hasn’t even arrived yet.  Even my own pantry – more beans andContinue reading “Peace in a Time of Chaos”

National Caregiver Day ~ Show the Love

Today we celebrate the caregivers ~ the paid caregivers and the volunteers who give their time and talents to make life just a bit more comfortable for our loved ones.  Although you don’t have to wait for an official ‘day’ to show appreciation, it helps to have a reminder. With families spread out across theContinue reading “National Caregiver Day ~ Show the Love”

Step up to the (dinner) Plate

With the holidays approaching at the speed of light, it is easy to get caught up in our to-do lists, gift shopping, decorating…. and let’s not forget the holiday baking! While many of us are surrounded by family and friends year-round, there is a large population of older adults who are alone in this worldContinue reading “Step up to the (dinner) Plate”

Flame or Water? You Choose!

Flame or Water? Now you have a choice with cremation. A water, or ‘Green Cremation’, is done using water and potassium hydroxide, that reduces the body to the bone ash similar to flame-based cremation with much less impact to the environment. I recently toured Bradsaw Funeral and Cremation Services in Stillwater, MN and was ableContinue reading “Flame or Water? You Choose!”