Such Is Life

Advance Planning

What is it and why do I need it? 

Close your eyes and think about what’s around you - what’s yours, what you love, what’s important to you, not necessarily just things, ideas, how you would like your last days to look if you were faced with such a decision in the future. Now open your eyes and tell me, does anyone else know the details of what is important to you? People agree that end of life planning is extremely valuable, but few will have the desire, energy, time or support to do it. Advance care planning enables your end-of-life care wishes to be honored if you’re unable to communicate them yourself. The value is in the ability to make these wishes tangible, written down, put in a place where someone can find them. Planning well requires information, support, assistance and access to local resources.

Such is Life can help guide you, taking your direction and documenting your wishes. Thinking about this isn’t easy, but it’s the first step in gaining the peace of mind that comes with knowing your wishes will be honored by the people you choose.

Compassionate Support

End of Life Doulas are equipped to navigate the complexities of dying and are prepared to support individuals who often avoid or lack the emotional capacity to address end-of-life matters on their own. Awareness and acceptance of the death processes through intimate conversations about life, unfinished business and comfort wishes can relieve anxiety, diminish pain and increase quality time. Searching for meaning through a process of life review or creating a legacy of a life well lived can be inspiring and comforting as we face these issues together.

Such is Life can help prepare a sacred space with memorable objects, music and other special items or services which will enable the transition to unfold according to your wishes.

Grief and Going Forward

Learning to live without a loved one after a death is complicated and Such is Life begins this transition with you. Honoring the process as a culturally sensitive and nonjudgmental witness to your journey will enable healing to begin for all.  Your grief is yours, it is not about “moving on” or “getting over it” and there is no time frame. Let yourself feel whatever you feel at any time without worry. Be angry, yell to the heavens, cry, do not worry if you don’t. Laugh, find moments of happiness, and when you are ready, move forward knowing this experience will be with you, accepting that you are not the same person and that is so very alright. When you are stuck, know that there are people out there to help you. Such is Life is there for you.