Hospice doula support Services
The dying process is a profound rite of passage — rich with emotion, transformation, and the potential for healing. As an End-of-Life Doula, Guide, and Consumer Advocate, I partner with hospice, individuals and their care team to create an intentional, meaningful journey. My goal is to describe what is possible, offering clients options they may not even know they have so they can shape their final chapter in ways that are most meaningful for them. With the wisdom and experience I've gained walking alongside others, I offer steady companionship and compassionate guidance every step of the way.
what are your options?
Receiving a life-limiting diagnosis can feel overwhelming—but you don’t have to surrender to the default path of letting the disease take its course. There are earlier exit options and meaningful choices available to give you a sense of autonomy and control over when you are ready and how you wish to die. I’m here to help you understand your options and guide you toward the kind of ending that aligns with your values. Whether you're planning ahead or need immediate support, you’re not alone.
Receiving a life-limiting diagnosis can feel overwhelming—but you don’t have to surrender to the default path of letting the disease take its course. There are earlier exit options and meaningful choices available to give you a sense of autonomy and control over when you are ready and how you wish to die. I’m here to help you understand your options and guide you toward the kind of ending that aligns with your values. Whether you're planning ahead or need immediate support, you’re not alone.
pursue a natural death
When ongoing medical treatment becomes more onerous than the possibility for a cure, you have within your control the ability to discontinue revolving trips to the ER, to discontinue antibiotics to clear up repeated infections, or to discontinue food and water in order to hasten your death and mitigate prolonged suffering, I can help you find resources including a hospice that will support you in that process. And, I can help to bridge any gaps in hospice care because their time on site with each of their clients is limited to a few hours a week.
Medical Aid in Dying
I can help you to determine whether or not you are eligible, for Medical Aid in Dying (MAID). Even if you live in a state where it is not yet legal, there are states that offer MAID support for non-residents who are eligible and who are able to travel to one of those states.
Voluntarily stopping eating and drinking
If MAID is not an option, I can explain and guide you through the process of discontinuing food and water to mitigate prolonged suffering. This process is called Voluntarily Stopping Eating and Drinking (VSED). Unlike MAID, VSED is legal in all 50 states and can be a relatively easy way to slip away (usually within 8-14 days) when done with care and support. I’ve guided families through both paths and can help you determine if either will work for you.
Voluntary assistance in dying
If those options don’t feel like the right fit, there are additional — though lesser known — voluntary assisted dying (VAD) pathways to consider. Several organizations in Switzerland provide services to qualified non-residents from around the world. While costs and eligibility requirements vary, for some individuals this can offer a meaningful alternative. In the U.S., groups like the Final Exit Network offer education and support around certain legal end-of-life options. Internationally, organizations such as Exit International provide information on a range of choices that may be available depending on location and circumstances. I am familiar with the offerings of both and can help you explore whether these resources align with your goals.
Family Involved Death care
After death, families have more choice than they may realize. I offer support for Family Involved Death Care, helping you care for your loved one’s body at home, either independently or with professional guidance. You are not required to use a funeral home, though I can help you find one that is open to this honoring model of care.
mini mobile suite
One of my more unique offerings is a small recreational vehicle that I call the Mini Mobile Suite (MMS). It's a private, on-site sanctuary that allows families to keep their loved one close without having the body inside the home. My team brings it to your private property and we can show you how to set it up and use it for your own user tailored experience. The MMS gives your caring circle time and space to say goodbye on your terms—in your time, in your way.
alternative disposition options
When it comes to final disposition options, you're not limited to traditional burial or flame cremation. I can help you explore newer, greener and natural options such as Natural Burial, Water Cremation (alkaline hydrolysis), or Natural Organic Reduction (human composting).
references upon request
Trina Wacasey, Ph.D.