Death Doula in Las Cruces
What's the difference between a death doula and a death midwife?
From my perspective: It's about who you trained under. If your death-work matriarch used the term "Death Midwife," you might too! I trained under Angie Buchanan, and it was an homage to her when I chose the title. But the titles are intergchangeable and the work is the same -- Supporting they dying and their loved ones with non-medical comfort, emotional support, and practical steps to make the transition sweeter
About
My name is Steph Butler
Death midwifery came to me as I watched my mom and aunt so naturally guide and encourage my grandpa Thomas through his death, the very same way they doula-ed me through my births. Their compassion and bravery gave him the greatest gift I can imagine-- a transition surrounded by love and assurance that all was OK
In my births, there were certainly moments where all did not feel OK, and their trusted voices kept me from panic. I knew I was not alone, and that their prayers and hands were going to guide me to the other side, where my baby would finally inhale and I would be delivered from my pain
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It struck me how many parallels there were in my grandpa's death. The same voices, the same encouragements, the same prayers for help and strength. But instead of the awaited inhale, they guided him to a final exhale, and deliverance from his pain into peace at last
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We all had so many questions afterward:
-What was normal, and what wasn't?
-What was right/wrong about how he went?
-Could it have been different if (a,b,c...) had changed?
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Shortly afterward I first heard the term Death Doula/Midwife, and I was fascinated. There are actually people who know the answers to these hard questions, and better yet-- they can prepare people beforehand so there aren't nagging questions hanging over an already very hard time
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I want to help you be as prepared and un-afraid as possible about your own death, so that you can live more fully and more connected in the time that remains. This can be many years, or just a few days
No matter how much time remains, I want you to have the knowledge, support, and love you need
Let's take the taboo out of death and approach it as what it is: A transition as inevitable as birth-- that can be equally full of life and love
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Steph Butler, Death Midwife, LLC
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My certifications include:
-Earth Traditions Death Midwife Certification Intensive
-IAP Career College Death Doula Certificate
-Mesilla Valley Hospice Volunteer Training
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How Can I Help You?