Voluntarily Stopping Eating and Drinking (VSED)


VSED, Voluntarily Stopping Eating and Drinking, is a legal right for any individual who wishes to shorten their dying process. Abstaining from food and liquid causes the body to cease functioning. The average length of time VSED typically takes is 8-15 days (with a range of 5-20). During this time, the loved one must continue to demonstrate capacity and autonomy around their choice to VSED. VSED requires compassion, courage, and dedication by not only the individual who wishes to VSED but also the family and friends supporting that individual. A death doula can be an invaluable source of support for those seeking VSED. 

As a VSED doula, my role is to advocate for the individual as they prepare for, experience, and conclude the VSED process. I also provide educational and emotional support for the family and loved ones. Together we identify the healthcare provider who supports a loved one's choice to VSED before assembling a team (hospice/palliative care, CNA, family members) to manage the location and process. We create a VSED statement including a list of personal markers to identify when VSED is nearing and inform clients of the required paperwork.

VSED Packages

I provide a complimentary initial phone consultation where we will discuss the support needed for you and your loved ones. There is no obligation to use my services after this consultation.

If you are ready to move forward with my services, we will begin with the first of two Hearts & Minds meetings.

Roberts Bird Sanctuary, Minneapolis, Minnesota

Roberts Bird Sanctuary, Minneapolis, Minnesota

HEARTS & MINDS

2 visits, $250 total

In the first meeting, we will discuss the desired outcomes of the client and the services I can provide around VSED.

  • In the first meeting, we will discuss the desired outcomes of the client and the services I can provide around VSED.

  •  In the second meeting, we review the personalized proposal I create for you.

  • If you are ready to move forward after those two meetings, our time will begin.

 
Boundary Waters Canoe Area, Minnesota

Boundary Waters Canoe Area, Minnesota

VSED SUPPORT

$120 per hour

  • Continual guidance and support of loved one & family through the VSED preparation.

  • Identify hospice, home care and family/friends roles on VSED team.

  • Create personal markers to identify when VSED is nearing, support with necessary paperwork, and personal video statements of the client’s wishes.

  • Provide education around signs and symptoms of the actively dying process via VSED.

  • Guided visualization, healing touch, energy healing, and rituals to honor and create peace for all involved.

  • Engage in reflective activities, such as creating a personalized heart will, video messages, letter writing, or other heartfelt projects.

  • A personalized Vigil Plan to create a sacred space for the period of actively dying.

  • Advocacy and communication support for pain management, self-care, and rest.

  • Plan memorial and life celebration gathering(s) before and/or after end-of-life.

  • Support for loved ones after death to reprocess and provide grief support.