"As a doula, I bring a wealth of diverse experiences and skills to support you through life's transitions. With backgrounds as a fitness trainer, teacher naturalist, youth coordinator, massage therapist, energy healing practitioner, and Penn State Extension LIFT instructor, I offer a holistic approach to care. My journey includes personal achievements such as completing 12 marathons, numerous half
marathons, and 5k road races, and finishing an Ironman triathlon. Additionally, I am a Concept 2 indoor rowing instructor and achieved age group wins at Concept 2 indoor races. These athletic pursuits have deepened my understanding of perseverance, goal-setting, and physical well-being. Serving as past president of local business and community alliances, I have honed my leadership and community-building skills. As an End of Life Doula, care consultant, and elder care specialist, I provide compassionate guidance during significant life stages. Drawing from roles as a Kaizen Muse creativity coach, and president of a state park friends group, I blend creativity, empathy, and organizational expertise into my doula practice. As a mother and grandmother, I bring a deep sense of familial love and understanding to my work. Let me empower you with compassion and skill as you navigate your unique journey." These were the words my Mother began saying in the last few months of her life. When my Mother was diagnosed with stage four bladder cancer in the final months of her life, I became her full-time caregiver. It was a challenging time for her, for me, and for the rest of the family. I felt alone and overwhelmed with the many unknowns. Though difficult, the final months were also a blessing. I learned a tremendous amount about myself and how to be a caregiver while accompanying her on her final journey. My Mother gave me life; it was a privilege to be with her till the end of hers. When my Father's health began to decline a few years before my Mother's passing, I began researching the death, dying, and caregiving subject. There was so much I wanted to learn and understand. The experience of caring for my parents at the end of their lives led me toward this profession. I am grateful that my parents had their affairs in order; this was a gift to my siblings and me. My own experiences of feeling alone and unknowing have led me to the desire to help others. I believe that anyone experiencing end of life doesn't have to be alone, caregivers included. "Doula" is a Greek word that means a non-medical person that gives physical, emotional, and spiritual support to someone else. After my Mother's death, I felt a calling towards this profession, and I enrolled in school. I earned my accreditation from Doulagivers® Institute, an internationally recognized leader in end-of-life training programs that offers new, specialized non-medical holistic care. In honor of my Mother, I have created this new private practice dedicated to support, guide, and advocate and build connections throughout various challenging life situations. I dedicate this work to her. Ann was my Mother's name; she gave me the name Diane. Doula Di Ann LLC Certified Doula Specialist is the name I have chosen for my practice. A Certified Doula Specialist serves the elderly before and through the end of life. As a well-rounded care service, I am trained in three crucial areas of care: Eldercare, Care Consulting, and End of Life Doula. It is my intention to help, educate, and guide folks on this journey of life. I will offer care consulting for those who would like to begin to prepare for the end of life. As an eldercare Doula, I will provide services to support seniors and their families. Having established a trusting relationship through this journey, I will then be available to serve as an End of Life Doula. I provide physical, emotional, and spiritual support to the patient, family, and loved ones and their support network. I will accompany and guide the patient and the family towards the end of life. I will hold this sacred space for all those involved. I intend to be there after the patient's passing to help the family left behind with all the goes with death. This includes the grieving process. I was a daughter and a sister, and all of this has changed. I am now an "orphan" - meaning I am the only surviving member in the family of origin chain. From this place and the many experiences of death and dying, I offer empathy, compassion, and understanding to my clients. Being a Doula and going through my own death and dying experiences has given me a greater appreciation for life. I live each day, and each moment, I have to the highest. I never put off what I can do today. I am grateful for my life and love those around me. My intention is to give my husband, son, and family the same gift that my parents gave me: a well-planned End of Life and a good and peaceful dying experience. I want to have open conversations about those tough topics so they know my final wishes. I would like to express what I desire in the last months and days of my life. Life is short; I intend to live fully with the awareness that I will not be here forever. Having my affairs in order is my gift to give my family as my parents gave to me. Having my affairs planned and in order allows me to go forth living fully and appreciating each day. The Irish have a phrase that describes a kind of friendship, an "Anam Cara." In Gaelic, the Anam Cara means Soul Friend. In ancient times the Celts created a role of an Anam Cara, a spiritual guide and companion. I would be honored and privileged to be your Anam Cara. To accompany you on your life's journey and be with you till the end of your life. I look forward to our conversation and connection. Until we meet, thank you, and stay well. And thank you to my Mother for giving me life; I love you. Be well,
Diane
