Welcome to

Light of Love

Every Moment Counts

About Us:

My name is Mare Martell. I’ve been trained as a Death Doula by Going With Grace and have served honorably for the last three years helping to walk my clients home.

I primarily serve as a Caregiver. I am a Unitarian Universalist Lay Chaplain. I am a Notary Public. I’m a member of The Order of the Good Death (Serving on their donor advisory board), NEDA (National End-of-Life Doula Alliance), Going With Grace Alumni, National Home Funeral Alliance, and the Hospice Foundation of America.

I am an advocate for the difficult conversations surrounding end-of-life which I publically present about The Labor of Dying as well as educating people about the role of a Death Doula at End of Life.

But what is a Death Doula? I’m glad you asked.

In the most delicate and uncertain moments of life, a Death Doula serves as a beacon of compassion, honor, and guidance. As individuals and families face the end-of-life journey, often filled with questions and anxieties, the presence of a knowledgeable and empathetic guide can make all the difference. A Death Doula brings a profound understanding of the physical, emotional, and spiritual facets of dying, ensuring that the closing chapter of life is written with dignity and respect.

Compassion is the cornerstone of a Death Doula’s role. They offer a comforting presence, providing emotional support not only to the dying but also to their loved ones. This compassionate attendance helps to alleviate fear and uncertainty, creating a space where open communication and genuine connection can flourish. By honoring the unique needs and wishes of each individual, a Death Doula fosters an environment of peace and acceptance, allowing for a more meaningful and personalized end-of-life experience.

Guidance from a Death Doula is grounded in deep knowledge and experience. They assist with practical matters, such as advance care planning and navigating healthcare systems, while also tending to the emotional and spiritual needs that arise. This holistic approach ensures that all aspects of the dying process are addressed, providing a comprehensive support system. By walking alongside individuals and their families during this profound journey, Death Doulas help transform a time of uncertainty into one of profound significance, offering a sense of closure and peace that honors the life that was lived.

Our services

Caregiver

As a non-medical caregiver, I help people live as independently as possible for as long as possible. I serve as a companion, transportation, advocate, resource connector, another set of ears at medical appointments, light housekeeper, and guide as challenges arise, as well as many other options.

Death Doula

The goal of end-of-life care is to foster a peaceful transition, honoring the wishes and values of the individual. By combining compassion with skilled care, we can help create an environment where the final stages of life are marked by tranquility and acceptance. In these tender moments, the presence of a caring and knowledgeable Doula can make all the difference, transforming fear and uncertainty into a time of meaningful connection and peace.

Notary Public

A Notary Public is an official appointed by a state government to serve the public as an impartial witness during notarizations. As ministerial officials, they are expected to follow statutory rules without the exercise of significant personal discretion.

Notaries Public certify the proper execution of many of the life-changing documents of private citizens — whether those transactions convey real estate, grant powers of attorney, establish a prenuptial agreement, or perform the multitude of other activities that enable our civil society to function.

What people are saying

Rating: 5 out of 5.

“”Mare came to care for my husband during his last few months of his life. It was such a relief for both of us! Bob loved having her. She read to him, helped with baths and generally made everything better. It became difficult during the last days of hospice. Mare worked with aides and nurses as he was actively dying. I highly recommend Mare! She goes beyond a typical helper. I’ve even recommended her to my friends.”

N.L.H

Rating: 5 out of 5.

“”Mom needed help and thankfully Mare was available. She was a friend when my Mom couldn’t get out to see her other friends. As Mom became more frail, we occasionally needed more help. Mare always found time for her. My mother relied on Mare and trusted her. She showed Mom love and respect. Mare helped us through my Mother’s last days and I can’t thank her enough.”

C.S.

Rating: 5 out of 5.

“Mare took care of my mom throughout the different stages of dementia she suffered from in her last years. She visited my mother at the facility where she lived frequently. She was there when my mom took her last breath, minding her in vigil until I arrived. She was of great comfort to myself and my family. I know my mom loved her, trusted her, and was glad she saw her through.”

J.L.

Rating: 5 out of 5.

“Mare is an absolute angel. She helped my family to understand what was happening with my dad. She answered our questions, worked with hospice, read and sang to my dad as he passed. She is the embodiment of love.”

J.E.

From the Archives

Death Positive posts, educational resources, items of interest

Contact us

If you wish to learn more, have questions, are testing availability for the care of your loved one, please fill out the form below.

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