Grief & End of Life Care
Death Doula and Grief Tending in Colorado and Online
Regardless of health status and diagnosis, I believe that healing is more than a cure, and something available to us even in our dying. It's an honor to work with those facing terminal illness whether it be hands-on holistic care or end of life preparation. End-of-Life Care is available before or alongside traditional palliative care and hospice services. I also cherish the opportunity to support those exploring their relationship to death and grief long before the end is near.
"Joy is not the opposite of grief. Grief is the opposite of indifference.”
- Malkia Devich-Cyril
Before the End is Near
Learning to walk alongside death and grief, while recognizing them as inseparable and necessary parts of life, expands our inclination toward compassion, love, and courage. It teaches us how to be with others in hard times. Cultivating our understanding of death and grief long before the end is near deepens our capacity for the joy, beauty, and sweetness of vibrant living. It clarifies what's important and true in our hearts, and helps us face life's transitions. On a collective scale, it begins to challenge the materialism, disconnection, and frenzied pace of modern society, bringing us into deep belonging with our ancestors, our communities, and the Earth.
When Death Approaches
Dying is not something that happens to us, it is something that we do. Having worked with many cancer patients over the years, this is what I know to be true: dying is not a punishment; it is not a failure; it is about more than medical care (though that is also important). How we face our dying days will leave an imprint on our loved ones for the rest of their lives. Delaying end of life conversations increases distress and confusion and burdens those involved. The longer we delay end of life preparation, the harder it becomes to face it. End of life conversations and planning can free us to live more fully in the time that remains. We don’t have a choice in whether we die or not, but we may very well have a choice in how we show up for it. How we approach our dying days can teach our loved ones how to face tremendous challenges with courage and grace. In the midst of sorrow and the heartbreak of death, we may leave those we love with a deeply meaningful and healing experience that they hold sacred for the rest of their lives.
How We Can Support You
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end-of-life planning
Available In Person or Online
End of life preparation and education when the end is near and when it is not. We inquire into a number of domains and needs including practical emotional, spiritual, physical, and legacy with the goal of finding ways to enrich life now and at the end.
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natural holistic support
Available In Person
In-person hands-on comfort care when the end nears: Offerings may include therapeutic touch, acupuncture, sound healing, breath work, aromatherapy, and other techniques for pain relief, relaxation, and emotional wellbeing. These services offer comfort and support to people facing the end of life as well as their loved ones/care givers.
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grief tending
Available In Person or Online
The landscape of grief is not meant to be walked alone. Healthy grief includes sorrow and heartbreak, but grief it is not just a feeling, it is also what we do. Grief is not meant to be "meditated away" or something to "get over". Conscious courageous grieving can nourish the heart, our ancestors, and the Earth, because it makes room to honor the sorrow, and also to celebrate the love and beauty of those we have lost.