Melavah:
One Who Accompanies
My Mission: To provide support for our Jewish community
I serve as a guide for the dying and their loved ones to facilitate a peaceful passing. Think of me as an end of life coach. I hold space for others, providing a safe place to express emotions and thoughts. I form relationships to make the last months and days meaningful.
My Role
The role of a Melavah/Doula is to provide non-medical support to the dying person and their family during this difficult time. I cultivate a sacred space so you and your family can experience the death process peacefully.
A Doula does not take the place of Hospice personnel. Rather, I provide Jewish-based support that supplements hospice services. I help give peace of mind to overwhelmed families caring for their dying loved ones, who also need support. I assist anyone who self-identifies as Jewish.
Why I am an End-of-Life Doula
It is my soul’s calling to partner with the dying to help ease the transition out of the physical body. Together, we identify priorities for a “good death,” in order to bring dignity and comfort to the dying process so that we navigate the transition with grace and love through a Jewish connection. I am honored to help others embrace our traditions and rituals at the end of life.
My husband of 56 years has battled brain cancer three times, and I have been his devoted caregiver for his 22 year medical journey. Out of gratitude I dedicate time to helping others at the end of life.
Laura Fendel,
Training & Background
I am a trained end of life Doula with INELDA (International End of Life Doula Association), and I volunteered at Legacy Hospice for several years. Judaism is central to my being, both as life-time learner and a teacher. For over twenty years, Mussar (Jewish ethical behavior) has been a focus of weekly study. I practice and teach/guide in our ways of living Torah at both Rose Schnitzer Manor and Congregation Neveh Shalom.
In addition, I was an elementary school teacher for thirty years. I received the Golden Apple Award for excellence given by parents, students and colleagues. I authored two books published by Harper Collins on self-esteem activities for teachers of young children. Art and interior design have always been a passion in my life. After retiring from classroom teaching, I had a thriving national interior design business. I continue to design and sew fiber sculptures, wall hangings, chuppah and tallit.
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Service Options
For the Ailing
Emotional and spiritual support
Life review - finding meaning
Ethical Wills/Legacy Letters
Assistance for Advanced Care Directives
Rituals, ceremonies, prayers, music
Meditation and breath awareness
Fulfillment of wishes for a positive passage
For Loved Ones
Stress management
Planning Chevra Kadisha (Jewish Ritual Preparation for Burial )
Options for Jewish “green” burials
Last hours - planning and support
Grief transition and support
* fees based on a sliding scale
Testimonials
"Laurie has been an inspiration and role model for me. Her words of wisdom have enabled me to reflect on difficult situations and center and ground me. I gain personal insights when talking to her. She is a listener and a healer. I value her in so many ways." --Lynn B.
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"Laurie’s warmth, wisdom, creativity and dedication to community bring wholeness and healing to all of her work. An accomplished educator, artist and author, Laurie is able to establish and foster deep connection and communication with others. Our study together of Torah, Jewish ethics and mindfulness has been a source of growth and inspiration in my life." --Reena L., M.D.