Certified CareDoula®

Carrie serves as a sounding board for patients to voice concerns, fears, wishes and thoughts, surrounding their terminal diagnosis.  As Carrie is not family, this gives the patient a space to keep it real, without the fear of upsetting a loved one or family member.  This time allows the patient to not only voice their wishes, but also document without interruption or influence from their loved ones.  Sessions are typically two hours.

Carrie will facilitate a family meeting for the patient and their loved ones, to be sure the patient is able to communicate their thoughts, wishes and concerns to loved ones in a controlled environment.  Controlled, in a sense that Carrie is a neutral party who can lead the discussion, keep it on track and be sure the patient isn’t interrupted, gaslit or influenced by others.  Meetings are 1-2 hours.

Carrie provides respite sessions so that the family/loved ones can take a break to run errands, shower, sleep, or simply take a walk.  It is imperative that the caregivers/friends/family take breaks for self-care and also give the patient a break as well.  Respite includes sitting bedside with the patient, ensuring the space around them is how they want it.  Examples of this can be essential oil diffusing, music, reading or simply sitting bedside.  Carrie does not provide medical care.

When the patient is no longer alert and in the actively dying phase, Carrie is available for vigil sessions.  This is a time to carry out what the patient has listed as their wishes. Many family members want 24/7 bedside companions for the patient, which they simply cannot provide or have enough people to do so.  Carrie can fill in the gaps of time, when family cannot be in attendance.  Vigil shifts vary from 2-6 hours, with some exceptions for overnights.