As a child, I was exposed to death at an earlier age than most. Classmates, parents and/or siblings of friends, as well as some of my own relatives, all passed away long before my high school graduation. As an adult, I knew that the passing of my close loved ones would be difficult. However, due to my work experience in the medical field and my early introduction to death, I felt I was better prepared than most. Nothing could have been farther from the truth. Although I had helped others wade through the numerous responsibilities related to the passing of a loved one, I had never done so while enduring my own personal (and staggering) grief. The impact that grief had on my ability to handle even the smallest of details blindsided me. When my dad learned that he only had weeks to live, circumstances dictated that I was the one who would make the decisions and choices regarding medical issues, funeral arrangements, people to contact and so forth. Although necessary, each one of those decisions made me feel like I had given up on/betrayed my dad. After all, he was still very much alive and hanging on to hope, while I was less than a mile away picking out his coffin.Death carries so many hidden hurts and unexpected difficulties. Once the word “terminal” has been spoken, friends often begin avoiding the one who is soon to pass (including their families), because they have no idea what to say and feel utterly helpless. They try to find something they can “do” at first (i.e. meals, errands), but sitting in silence with someone suffering deep grief and fear, makes them feel awkward. They often find it easier to “give you some space” but, in reality, that “space” only deepens the trauma. Most truly want to help... they just don’t know how to do so. God has placed a calling on my heart to walk with those who are trying to navigate this difficult and heart breaking path. It IS possible to experience peace and comfort amidst the pain and bewilderment that is common while passing through the shadow of this dark valley. The Hebrew word “Shalom” is most often defined as peace, hello, or goodbye. And those are certainly accurate definitions. However, the root meaning of the word “Shalom” means “completeness or wholeness”. It is this deeper definition of “Shalom” that I strive to bring to you and your loved ones. To help the one who is passing find rest and a sense of peace knowing that their life had been filled with value and purpose. And for those left behind, honoring what has been, then gently helping them step forward into what is still to come. A sunset is as beautiful as a sunrise. Both have their allotted time and place, and neither are in our control. Nevertheless, once we begin our personal “sunset,” we have the potential to make a lasting and valuable impact on those we love. A legacy that can change lives, long after our “sun” has set. I would consider it an honor to walk with you and your loved ones through this time of sorrow, hoping, that together, we can create (or complete) a lasting legacy that will bring much peace and comfort to all who walk this journey together. CBT Certified DA Certified Radiology Certified Head Surgery Scheduler Certified End of Life Doula (720) 878-2338 julie@withyouandyours.com Serving Colorado

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Julie Kendall

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Julie Kendall

Colorado

Julie Kendall

Colorado

2019-09-11T10:20:20-04:00

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FREE Doulagivers 90 Minute Level 1 End of Life Doula Live Webinar Training

The Doulagivers Level 1 family caregiver Training will teach you how to care for an end of life loved one through the time of a terminal diagnosis all the way till the time of death. End of life is an inevitable part of our lives journey. This will be a FREE 90 Minute Webinar taught by Suzanne B. O'Brien RN. Live questions will be answered during each class from participants. We can help those at the end of life have the best experience possible. Learn the skill, change the world.

Thursday, March 19th, 2020 7:00 pm to 9:00 pm ET

Colorado

Julie Kendall

Julie Kendall

Doulagivers

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AWARDED “WORLDWIDE LEADER IN HEALTHCARE” BY THE INTERNATIONAL NURSES ASSOCIATION