Cardamom Path Blog

The Cardamom Path Blog includes information around end of life choices and access to preparing for a ‘good death’ including all that is accessible during the dying transition, after-death body care, and alternative interments. The more we share information with each other, the better we can prepare ourselves and loved ones for what will happen to all of of us…guaranteed, no matter what 10 out of 10 people will experience death.

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The Many Roles of a Death Doula: A Guide to Compassionate End-of-Life Care
Pam Chotiswatdi Pam Chotiswatdi

The Many Roles of a Death Doula: A Guide to Compassionate End-of-Life Care

Death doulas, also known as end-of-life doulas (EOLD), are emerging as key figures in transforming the way we approach death and dying. Rooted in empathy, their work encompasses a wide array of roles designed to support individuals and families through the end-of-life journey. Below, we explore the many roles a death doula can fulfill, highlighting their unique contributions to this deeply personal process.

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Understanding How Hospice and Death Doulas Work Together
Pam Chotiswatdi Pam Chotiswatdi

Understanding How Hospice and Death Doulas Work Together

When guiding a family facing end-of-life decisions, it's essential to acknowledge that selecting a hospice provider is a deeply personal choice. Each hospice company is unique, and families should seek a team of professionals who genuinely care about end-of-life support and can meet their specific needs. Here are key questions and considerations to assist families as they navigate this decision:

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What to Ask When Hospice is Needed
Pam Chotiswatdi Pam Chotiswatdi

What to Ask When Hospice is Needed

If you or a loved one are considering hospice care, it’s important to ask thoughtful questions to ensure the provider aligns with your needs and values. Below are suggestions to guide your conversations with hospice providers.

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End of Life Documents and When to Update Them
Pam Chotiswatdi Pam Chotiswatdi

End of Life Documents and When to Update Them

End-of-life planning involves gathering several key documents to ensure that your wishes are honored and your affairs are managed properly. These documents can help guide medical decisions, protect your assets, and provide peace of mind for loved ones.

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Grief and the Stress of Physical Loss
Pam Chotiswatdi Pam Chotiswatdi

Grief and the Stress of Physical Loss

Medical Aid in Dying (MAiD) refers to the practice where a terminally ill, mentally competent adult, who is experiencing unbearable suffering, can voluntarily request and receive medication from a healthcare provider to end their life peacefully. MAiD is a legally regulated process, intended to give patients more control over their end-of-life care and allow them to die with dignity.

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Medical Aid in Dying (MAiD)
Pam Chotiswatdi Pam Chotiswatdi

Medical Aid in Dying (MAiD)

Medical Aid in Dying (MAiD) refers to the practice where a terminally ill, mentally competent adult, who is experiencing unbearable suffering, can voluntarily request and receive medication from a healthcare provider to end their life peacefully. MAiD is a legally regulated process, intended to give patients more control over their end-of-life care and allow them to die with dignity.

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The Sandwich Generation and Dealing with Death
Pam Chotiswatdi Pam Chotiswatdi

The Sandwich Generation and Dealing with Death

The "Sandwich Generation" refers to individuals who are simultaneously caring for their aging parents and supporting their own children. This dual responsibility can be incredibly stressful and emotionally taxing, especially when dealing with the death of a loved one. Here’s how members of the Sandwich Generation can navigate these challenging times.

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Climate Change and Green Interments
Pam Chotiswatdi Pam Chotiswatdi

Climate Change and Green Interments

Green interments, also known as natural burials, are an environmentally friendly alternative to traditional burial and cremation practices. They aim to minimize environmental impact and promote the conservation of natural resources.

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Organ Donations: What Does It Mean?
Pam Chotiswatdi Pam Chotiswatdi

Organ Donations: What Does It Mean?

Organ donation is not for everyone, some people opt for it for various reasons to potentially help a person in need. It's the last time to give back or pay it forward, so many people opt to add the pink dot to their driver's licenses. Some opt out due to religious beliefs or other personal factors. No matter the choice, it is a choice that is to be respected no matter what. 

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America's Medicalization of Dying and Death
Pam Chotiswatdi Pam Chotiswatdi

America's Medicalization of Dying and Death

Since the Civil War, we as a society have created a deep wedge between the living and the dying. We opted for preservation in place of natural occurrences. I’d like to say we are coming out of an era of “trial.” Albeit a long “trial” of 140+ years. Yet, we can return to end of life planning and care intertwining the comforts of the modern age.

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Hospice Care and Palliative Care 
Pam Chotiswatdi Pam Chotiswatdi

Hospice Care and Palliative Care 

A common question asked in the community is the difference between Hospice Care and Palliative Care. In this era, we seldom are educated in the medical setting and are sent home with more questions than answered.

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Hello-Welcome to Cardamom Path
Pam Chotiswatdi Pam Chotiswatdi

Hello-Welcome to Cardamom Path

Rooted in the belief that the End of Life deserves as much beauty and care as the beginning, our mission is to enrich the fabric of death and dying through comprehensive education, unwavering support, and advocacy.

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