The End-of-Life Doula Network, a program of the Madison County Rural Health Council, has been established to offer doula services to support a dying person and their family and loved ones.
These services will be available at no cost to residents of Madison and Oneida counties.
“We are fortunate to be able to offer end-of- life doula services to our community and provide support during a difficult time,” said MCRHC Executive Director Christine Paul.
An end-of-life (EOL) doula is a trained, non-medical professional who provides companionship, support and guidance to those facing a terminal illness or death.
Doulas provide care and support during all stages of dying by offering listening and comfort, extra support and respite for caregivers, a knowledgeable presence and guidance about the stages of dying, facilitation of end-of-life planning and early grief support.
Additionally, EOL doulas offer resources and information to help the dying person, along with their family and loved ones.
The EOL Doula Network accepts self-referrals and referrals from family members, friends and neighbors, community organizations, healthcare providers, nursing homes, assisted living facilities, hospitals and hospice. To work with one of the doulas, a person must have received a diagnosis of terminal illness or end-stage disease with six-months or less to live.
For more information, contact Stephanie Henry at henry.s@mcruralhealthcouncil.org or 315-313-4399. Visit www.mcruralhealthcouncil.org.