The Practical Doula

04/05/2026

"She made everyone feel confident to ask questions..." 💬✨

There is nothing better than hearing that our attendees feel empowered and heard. Melanie’s blend of empathy and expertise is what makes our "Planning Ahead" workshops so special.

Big thanks to Grace J for the wonderful review from our March 2026 session!

24/04/2026

Even when you have everything, you still need a hand to hold. ✨

Seeing Nicole Kidman open up about her mother’s "lonely" final days and her decision to train as a death doula felt incredibly personal to me.

It’s a reminder that grief and the need for support don’t care about fame or fortune. At the end of the day, we all just want to feel seen, held, and cared for.

As a doula, my goal is to make sure no one feels they have to "figure it out" in the middle of their hardest moments. We provide the solace that allows families to focus on love, not logistics.

What was your first reaction to this news? I’d love to hear your thoughts below. 👇

https://www.theguardian.com/film/2026/apr/15/nicole-kidman-death-doula

Australian actor says the death of her mother in 2024 inspired the new direction

22/04/2026

Planning Ahead: Gentle Introduction to End-of-Life Documentation - Tuesday 12 May (10am-1pm)

Join Melanie, an End-of-Life Doula, for a warm and supportive conversation about the importance of planning ahead in a non-judgmental and safe space.

This session offers a simple, compassionate introduction to the documents that can help ensure your wishes are known and honoured.

Whether you're just beginning to think about these topics or looking to feel more prepared, this is a safe space to learn, ask questions and take the first steps, at your own pace.

The event includes morning tea and a “Keep Calm and Prepare Kit” to take home with you - all for $40 per person.

Click here to register: https://nhs.clevero.co/godfrey-street-/view/course/304040583

15/04/2026

It’s true - no matter who we are, we all have experiences with death!

So grateful for this mention of doula and how we can provide support and companionship when requested. ✨

Australian actor says the death of her mother in 2024 inspired the new direction

13/04/2026

Melanie was contacted by Caroline, who was worried about her aunt, Janice.

During every visit, Auntie Janice spoke to Caroline about wanting to die. Living with immobility and a declining quality of life had taken its toll. Caroline didn’t know how to respond to her beloved aunt.

Caroline asked Melanie to speak with her about her options, including voluntary assisted dying. When Melanie visited, she gently explained the options that may be available and saw an immediate shift. A sense of relief and calm came over Auntie Janice.

Since then, Caroline says Auntie Janice is much more settled and hasn’t spoken about wanting to die again.

For Melanie, it reaffirmed something simple but powerful:
When people understand their options, they feel more in control. Sometimes, that changes everything.

29/03/2026

The Practical Doula is honoured to have been asked to share this survey with you ....

As part of the Nonreligion in a Complex Future project, we are conducting a survey that explores perspectives and experiences on death and dying to gain a better understanding of how people navigate and experience end-of-life care.

If you have experienced the death of someone close to you in the past 12 months, please consider completing this brief online survey. The survey should take roughly 10-20 minutes to complete and will ask questions about services that the deceased utilised and their overall experiences throughout the dying process.

If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to contact the research team by email at ethics@uottawa.ca. CLICK ON THIS LINK TO complete the survey: https://utampa.az1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_bpx7hiIzvFCtO8C.

As part of the in a Complex, we are conducting a survey that explores perspectives and experiences on death and dying to gain a better understanding of how people navigate and experience end-of-life care. reflect on these questions, please feel free to step away and return whenever or if it feels right for you.

16/03/2026

📚 I’ve just finished With the End in Mind by Dr. Kathryn Mannix and I absolutely loved it.

Drawing on her years in palliative care, she shares real life stories of patients and families in language we can all understand. There is no heavy medical jargon, just honesty, clarity and deep compassion.

What really stood out to me was her sensitivity. She does not avoid the reality of dying, but she helps us see it as something natural rather than frightening.

I also appreciated how real she is. She openly reflects on times she did not get it quite right early in her career and how she educated herself to do better. That humility and willingness to grow is powerful.

This book gently encourages more open conversations about death and dying, replacing fear with understanding.

Highly recommend.
Have you read it? I’d love to hear your thoughts.
Call Melanie on 0406 622 091 or send a private message here.

14/03/2026

Navigating end-of-life documentation can feel overwhelming, but it doesn't have to be.

Join us for Planning Ahead - A gentle Introduction to End-of-Life Documentation at the Godfrey Street Community House.

This single, supportive session is designed to walk you through the process, giving you the knowledge and confidence to document your wishes. You will also receive a “Keep Calm and Prepare Kit” (value $15.00) to take home!!

What: Planning Ahead - A gentle Introduction to End-of-Life Documentation
When: Tuesday 24 March 2026
Time: 10:00 am – 1:00 pm
Where: Godfrey Street Community House, 9 Godfrey Street, Bentleigh 3204
Cost: $40
Open to the public. Take this important step for yourself and your loved ones.
Book your spot now! 📞 Call 03 9557 9037 or visit this link: https://nhs.clevero.co/godfrey-street-/register/course/304040560?