In a conversation I had with my mother, Linda Looney, I noticed a repeated pattern, often punctuated with a tsk, or, and, in addition to her favorite “So…Anyways…” Here is what it sounds like to listen to my mom. This is primarily jotted notes of how she speaks. This is merely the art of her rhythm Used with her permission.
Today I started out by getting coffee with Freddie Nechtow and Jen Stark. It was deep with delicious conversation. We covered all different topics and I felt deeply satisfied because of the company. We tried out a new place called Bob’s coffee.
After a fantastic time, I drove over to the China Palace where I spent lunch with Mylissa Buttram. We talked for over an hour. Mind you, I didn’t know her but by name before meeting her today. We dove in deeper than my previous conversation.
We talked about death, dying, cancer survival and cancer casualties. I learned more about support groups that deal with cancer. I was able to give out three business cards when some friends of hers showed up at the restaurant. She said that talking to new people brought her energy.
We discussed the Red Tent and our collective vision of which direction to go. We made another date for breakfast at the WaHo on a typical Monday so Freddie can meet her and talk to her about grief. I’m looking forward to getting to know her even better.
I can’t remember a time in my life where I’ve been happier. If I have, this happiness is the most complete I’ve felt in a coon’s age. I’ve been happy before, but this is different. I wish I had ample words to describe this feeling. I feel blessed beyond measure.
Contact: Mare Martell, maremartell@lightoflove.net
Local Provider Receives Proficiency Badge from the National End-of-Life Doula Alliance
Oak Ridge, TN, Mare Martell is proud to announce that on September 28th, 2021 they have earned a Proficiency Badge from the National End-of-Life Doula Alliance (NEDA). End-of-life doulas are trained, non-medical caregivers who provide holistic, personalized care to dying individuals and their families. Their services include community resources, education, emotional support, and household assistance. By earning the Proficiency Badge, Mare Martell, has demonstrated understanding in four broad areas of competency: communication, ethics, values, and professionalism.
A recent graduate of Going With Grace’s Doula training course, Mare Martell made it her life’s work to be engaged with the public when it comes to death and dying. She has helped several families through the End-of-Life transition and looks forward to helping others to prepare for the inevitable.
“Interest in end-of-life doulas has increased greatly in the last few years,” states founding member and current NEDA president Merilynne Rush, MSHP, RN, BSN. Until now, there has been no consistency in definition or guidelines of practice. “The consistency that NEDA offers through the Proficiency Assessment process is greatly needed,” states Rush. “Families who are utilizing end-of-life doulas, and healthcare providers who are referring to them, will have confidence in the knowledge of those who earn the NEDA Proficiency Badge.”
NEDA welcomes all practicing end-of-life doulas, trainers, and other interested parties to become involved in their various learning and networking initiatives. NEDA is the only membership organization that provides a ‘big tent’ for all concerned to come together and help this new profession grow. The new Proficiency Assessment establishes a strong foundation of knowledge, integrity, and skill in the field. To learn more about Mare Martell, please visit http://www.lightoflove.net. For more information about NEDA, visit www.nedalliance.org, or https://www.facebook.com/national.end.of.life.doula.alliance/
Life is a patchwork of moments — laughter, solitude, everyday joys, and quiet aches. Through scribbled stories, I explore travels both far and inward, from sunrise over unfamiliar streets to the comfort of home. This is life as I see it, captured in ink and memory. Stick around; let's wander together.
Mare Martell 