What qualifications and training do you have to do this work?

There are no legal requirements or regulations for end-of-life guides in New Zealand, however I’ve undertaken many hours of training, accompanying the dying in their homes, mentoring, contemplation, as well as personal experience and exploration that I bring to this sacred offering of service from my heart .

Aromatherapy for Palliative Care (The Aromary - Carol Rose, Auckland, 27-28 April, 2019)
Doorway into Light Certified Death Doula (Doorway into Light, Hawaii, awarded April 3, 2019)
Ceremony Masterclass: ceremony as sacred rite of passage and crafting for complex and challenging deaths (Natural Death Care Centre, NSW, 8-9 November 2018)
Deathwalker Training**: exploring & embracing end-of-life; caring for & being with the dying; ceremony, ritual & rite of passage; preparation & advocacy; funeral arrangements; bereavement, loss & growth (Natural Death Care Centre, NSW, 2-4 November 2018).
The 2nd International Death Doula Training: 'showing up for death, nourishing life' (Doorway Into Light, Hawaii, 12-16 April, 2018).
Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training (ASIST): (Lifeline Suicide Prevention Education, Raglan, 17-18 July 2013)
Professional Development Day - "Resources for the Journey": children with life-limiting illnesses (True Colours Children's Health Trust, Hamilton, 1 November 2013)
Creative Grief Coach Training: (Creative Grief Studio, online, USA, February - April 2013)
Bachelor of Science (Biology): study included the human body and psychology (Victoria University, Wellington 2006)
Hospice Waikato, on-going professional development, including: Empathic Communication Skills, Palliative Care Essentials, The Process of Dying, Clinical Challenges, Grief and Loss - managing grief in the workplace, Working With Families, Professional Caregiver Stress, Foundations for Spiritual Care.
**NDCC Deathwalker training is accredited by the Australian Association of Social Workers and the Australian Counseling Association.

What might I expect in a visit?

Visits are very personal and depend on your wishes and needs.

As we get to know each other we might talk about topics of importance to you, discuss beliefs and wishes, look through photos, foot or hand massage, read to you or play your favourite music.

I’m also comfortable with silence, to be simply a companion, so you know you are not alone. This includes vigil, if you or your family wishes.

If there are flowers in my garden, I’ll bring a few to brighten your room. If you like scent, we can try some essential oils, good for relaxation and relief of anxiety. I can help create a pleasant environment (you may wish to have a little alter or table of favourite things and/or photos near you, or chairs closer for family and friends to visit with you).

How often do you visit?

Visits vary depending on your needs. Sometimes they may be short, sometimes longer. At times it may be a phone-call with you and/or your care-giver.

Typically I may visit once or twice a week initially, and more often toward the end-of-life to support both patient and family. I can be with you for hours at a time and vigil as death nears, if that is your and your family’s wish.

How do I get referred to you?

If you are on hospice in the Raglan area, Hospice Waikato or the district nurse will see if we might be a good fit. We then meet to get to know each other and discuss what I can offer. (The initial visit may be with the nurse to introduce us, or she may pass on your phone number and I will call you to arrange a visit.) You are never under any obligation, it is always your choice.
If you are not on hospice, your doctor or nurse or word-of-mouth may suggest me, and you’re welcome to contact me directly.

Do you serve people of all (or no) religions and beliefs?

Yes, I serve people of any or of no religious persuasion, everyone is treated equally with care and respect.

If you have a particular religion, I am happy to read your religious texts or prayers for you (if in English!), to contact clergy on your behalf and/or support you in any helpful ritual or readings that are appropriate.

Are you a member or associate of any relevant associations or organisations?

Hospice Waikato (patient and family support & life story), NZ
Raglan Rest Home and Hospital (craft activities), NZ
Doorway Into Light, USA
Natural Death Care Centre, Australia
National Home Funeral Alliance, USA

What should I say to someone who is dying?

A good article helping you know what to say by Centre for Hospice Care in South East Connecticut.

Are you paid for your work?

No, there is no cost to patients or families. It’s an honour to be of service to patients and their loved ones. I believe living and dying well is a basic human right.

Hospice Waikato always welcomes gifts to support their work.