Kacie and I met over the Write My LifeBook Legacy Project and that is how I became fascinated about her role as a death doula. Take time to learn about Kacie and the role of a death doula – it’s worth the read!
Transforming the Journey: The Role of a Death Doula
In the intricate journey of life, the role of a death doula weaves a unique and compassionate thread. For those unfamiliar with this emerging profession, Kacie Gikonyo, a dedicated death doula, provides invaluable support to individuals and families navigating the end-of-life journey.
“Essentially, I step in when someone has received a terminal diagnosis,” Kacie explains. “My aim is to remove the stress and chaos, helping to establish critical next steps in end-of-life planning. This ensures the experience is memorable rather than overwhelming.”
Kacie’s work extends beyond the individual facing terminal illness; she builds deep connections with their loved ones, understanding their fears, anxieties, and desires. “As things progress, the individual will need me less, and the family will need me more. At some point, this shift happens, and I become a crucial support for the family.”
A Calling Born from Compassion: Kacie’s Journey to Becoming a Death Doula
Kacie’s path to becoming a doula is deeply rooted in her background as a registered nurse. “I always had a passion for supporting people at the end of life. When COVID-19 hit, I was faced with a large number of people dying in a short time, often without family around. That solidified my passion to help people die better.”
Stumbling upon the concept of a death doula, Kacie immediately felt a resonance. “I read about it, found a training program, and started the next day. I opened my business right after completing the program.”
Changing the Narrative Around Death
One of Kacie’s most profound passions is changing the narrative around death and dying. “I’m passionate about helping people die better by encouraging open conversations about death. It’s the last gift someone is given in their life – a way of dying better.”
To expand her impact, Kacie also focuses on training other death doulas. “I can’t do it all alone. Clients tell me I have no idea how important my work is to them. Training more doulas allows me to extend that support.”
The Power of Legacy Projects
Kacie highlights the significance of legacy projects, which often go overlooked. “Legacy projects bring joy and happiness to the individual and offer a tangible memory for their loved ones. When I learned about legacy projects in death doula school, I thought it was genius. Everyone deserves to leave a legacy.”
These projects (ie. Write My LifeBook Legacy Project) allow individuals to relive cherished memories, and in turn, Kacie learns about their lives. “It’s a gift that keeps giving – to the individual and their family.”
Educating Through Challenges
A significant challenge in Kacie’s work is the lack of education around end-of-life care. “Misinterpretations about hospice, palliative care, and even basic aspects like eating and drinking at the end of life can cause problems. My role involves listening and educating people to navigate these hurdles.”
Staying strong during difficult moments is Kacie’s “superpower.” “I remain strong when everyone else is crumbling, becoming a pillar of support.”
The Birth of the Death Doula School
Kacie’s background as a nurse educator inspired the creation of her Death Doula School. “I envisioned educating other death doulas from the start. Many programs lack a medical perspective, which is crucial. My nursing background has been invaluable in creating a comprehensive program.”
Her school prepares students for the realities of death, emphasizing the importance of understanding medical aspects, hospice care, and business skills. “My goal is to produce well-rounded, well-educated death doulas.”
Distinguishing Death Doulas from Hospice
Kacie clarifies common misconceptions between death doulas and hospice care. “Hospice provides limited assistance, while death doulas can offer more comprehensive support. We don’t handle medical needs but focus on physical, emotional, and practical assistance.”
Kacie shares an example: “I’m currently helping a young mother arrange for a dog walker and household chores, ensuring her end-of-life experience isn’t defined by a mountain of laundry.”
Learn More
For those interested in learning more about the compassionate work of death doulas and the support they provide, Kacie’s Doula School offers a comprehensive education. “We’re here to help people die better and support their families through the process. It’s a deeply rewarding and essential service.”
This interview with Kacie offers a heartfelt glimpse into the vital role of death doulas, their impact on end-of-life experiences, and the transformative power of compassionate care. If you’re inspired to learn more or even become a doula, Kacie’s story is a testament to the profound difference this work can make.
To learn more about Kacie Gikonyo or the Death Doula School check out: deathdoulakacie.com or email kacie@deathdoulakacie.com or follow Kacie on LinkedIn, FaceBook, Instagram or Twitter.
To learn more about the Write My LifeBook Legacy Project, check out: https://writemylifebook.com/legacy-project/ or follow me on LinkedIn, FaceBook or Instagram.
