Short Synopsis
From Henry Fersko-Weiss, the creator of the end-of-life doula model, Caring for the Dying describes a whole new way to approach death and dying.

Full Synopsis
Caring for the Dying describes a whole new way to approach death and dying. It explores how the dying and their families can bring deep meaning and great comfort to the care given at the end of a life. Created by Henry Fersko-Weiss, the end-of-life doula model is adapted from the work of birth doulas and helps the dying to find meaning in their life, express that meaning in powerful and beautiful legacies, and plan for the final days. The approach calls for around-the-clock vigil care, so the dying person and their family have the emotional and spiritual support they need along with guidance on signs and symptoms of dying. It also covers the work of reprocessing a death with the family afterward and the early work of grieving.

Emphasis is placed on the space around the dying person and encourages the use of touch, guided imagery, and ritual during the dying process. Throughout the book Fersko-Weiss tells amazing and encouraging stories of the people he has cared for, as well as stories that come from doulas he has trained and worked with over the years.

"Fersko-Weiss’s perspective is a desperately needed reminder of the value of facing life’s most difficult transitions with open eyes and hearts." ---Publishers Weekly Starred Review

"Written for families and caregivers, this book provides a clear overview of end-of-life doulas and a compelling case for their wider use in terminal care." ---Library Journal Starred Review

"This brave, reassuring book succeeds at eliminating the negativity surrounding death." ---Foreword Reviews

“Caring for the Dying will not only become a standard for those wishing to train in the way of the doula. It will be a book that answers questions for those who have been in the presence of death and a sourcebook and support for those who wish to bring such a compassionate and caring role into one of life’s most challenging and sacred moments.” ---Robert Sachs, LISW, author of Rebirth Into Pure Land

Publishers Weekly Review

Library Journal Bestseller

Library Journal Review