"Birth and Death are the most singular events we experience - and the contemplation of death, as of birth, should be a thing of beauty, not ignobility"  Jacob Javits

 

 

   I have worked in the hospital setting for 30 years as a Registered Nurse. I am all too familiar with the fear, emotional and physical suffering and loss of autonomy that people experience during illness and especially, at the end of their lives. I have also witnessed both personally and professionally, how this lack of cultural acceptance of our mortality affects our loved ones and ultimately the grieving process when a life ends. After learning how a Death Doula could show up to hold space in so many beautiful ways for those facing death, in June 2022 I completed a course with Going with Grace to become a Death/End of Life Doula.

 

A Death Doula is a non-medical support person who is there to advocate for your wishes and to hold space as you process your personal journey through death and dying. Bringing a Death Doula in early for support can help you and your family navigate through very difficult times and choices. 

 

My deepest intention is to hold space for a person as they grieve the anticipation of their own death. I have had the honor of witnessing many who have been at peace with their own death and the process of dying has been one of greater peace for them. When someone experiences dying with acceptance and can consider coming to peace with their own mortality, they not only can embody a greater sense of peace within for their own journey but their loved ones tend to experience grieving with a greater sense of peace and acceptance as well. My offering is to hold space for you in whatever setting you find yourself in through the dying process, to be a listening ear and to provide support in all ways love.