End-of-Life Care: A Conversation with Amanda Miller
Episode Overview
Death doulas provide non-medical support focused on emotional care. Involvement of family is crucial during end-of-life care. Legacy projects help preserve memories for families. Volunteering is recommended before pursuing a career as a death doula. Grief is unpredictable; presence and comfort are vital.
"You never know how grief will hit you until it does. Just be there, hold a hand, give a hug."
In the thought-provoking episode of 'Speaking Candidly with Candace', host Candace Schoner, alongside co-host Carrie Kerwick, welcomes Amanda Miller, a certified death doula, to discuss the sensitive topic of end-of-life care. Amanda brings her expertise and compassion to the table, sharing personal experiences and offering guidance for those facing the difficult journey of saying goodbye to loved ones.
With humour and warmth, Amanda tackles the often-taboo subject of death, discussing everything from planning a celebration of life to the challenges families face during terminal illness. Amanda's journey into becoming a death doula is rooted in her own experiences with loss, particularly after her parents' passing due to cancer. She shares how these events highlighted gaps in the death care industry and motivated her to support families through this emotional time.
The conversation delves into the misconceptions surrounding the role of a death doula, emphasising the importance of family involvement and the non-medical nature of the support provided. Listeners will find Amanda's insights on legacy projects particularly engaging. She discusses creating guided journals to help individuals leave behind memories and wisdom for their families, ensuring their stories are remembered.
Amanda's advice for those considering a career in end-of-life care is practical and heartfelt – volunteer first to see if it's a path you can emotionally handle. Amanda's compassionate approach offers solace and understanding to those grappling with grief. If you're looking for honest advice on dealing with terminal illness or simply want to hear a conversation that normalises talking about death, this episode is well worth your time.