I am a Christian and a student of the Bible who finds personal application for life through that discipline. I believe Christianity is about relationship with God verses following rules to earn Gods acceptance. I’m a firm believer in prayer as a way to talk to God and find comfort and direction especially in working through the topic of end-of-life issues. Finding peace with God can be especially important at this time of life. If you are of another faith background, I will respect your faith and would love to learn from you as well.

Dying is very much like going through a childbirth labor. It takes a lot of energy for a baby to come into this world and it takes a lot of energy to prepare to leave this world. Having worked at the bedside of individuals who are dying for 20+ years, I am very comfortable with what happens to the body during the active dying process. I can help the client and family understand what to expect and what can be done to help achieve a good death. I can help with guidance of when to call the doctor or hospice when there are issues needing addressed. I am willing to come alongside you and be present for periods of time during this process if desired and if schedule allows. I am also available by phone for extended hours during this critical time.

With a background in Hospice Nursing and Oncology Nursing, I have gained knowledge and understanding into the stages and progression of the dying process whether one has months or days to live. I believe this is a strength of mine. As we understand together where you are on this journey, you can set goals for what you’d like your final chapter in this life to look like.

As a person who already has my vigil plan (the few weeks prior to my actual death if my illness would allow this at the time) I can help you create what would be important and meaningful for you. Who might you want around you? Would you not want visits at this time? Do you need to have someone else be a “door keeper” for guests, setting up a visitation schedule and time limits? Where would you like a hospital bed if needed? Would you like to look outside? Do you enjoy aroma therapy or candles? Are soft sheets and soft pjs important? There are many things we can discuss to help create an environment that brings you comfort at that time.

I’m happy to discuss with you as well as research information to help your loved ones have a meaningful service. You will not be there, but your ideas and thoughts known and may help your family to honor your wishes.

This is something you or your family may choose to create to remember you. The possibilities are endless.
• Organizing your favorite recipes for a small cookbook
• Writing/dictating letters to those you have the desire to communicate with but not the energy to visit
• Creating a quilt or stuffed animal from your favorite shirts or articles of clothing
• Setting up a scholarship fund or memorial fund for an organization that is meaningful to you
• Art Therapy

It is a healthy part of the grief process to talk through what family and friends experienced in being a part of their loved ones dying experience. I have seen how helpful this is for people short term to be able debrief and discuss their experience and feelings with someone who can help normalize grief in a short-term setting. I can also provide resources for further grief work.