I came to know death with the passing of my first pup Nikky.  I later rediscovered caregiving and anticipatory grief when my dad started having mobility issues and was chair bound and diagnosed with dementia. Diving in head first to a medical system riddled with twists and turns, I quickly realized that every person deserves an advocate. 

What's my story?????
I had the privilege of being with both my parents at their last breath.  It was peaceful, intimate and very special.
My dad was in hospice care just shy of 24 hours.  I was not ready for the speed at which the train was moving. There was no time to prepare.  I made a playlist of his favourites and we listened as he drifted away. It was beautiful.

My mom was in palliative care at a hospital.  We had no time to seek out a hospice and it was the best of the best.  I sprang into action to make this room not a hospital room.  Although palliative is quieter, it is still a sterile environment.   I wanted to create a special space that she would love.
I loaded my car with a lamp, rug, pictures, Saje atomizer with the dreamstate scent, cashmere blanket, silk eye mask, lotion, hair brush, stuffed animal, pillow and so much more.  Not to mention, making yourself comfortable.  Neck pillow, snacks, yoga mat, comfy shoes and all your personal care items.  
The transformation was worth the stuffed car.  Every nurse and doctor that entered the room was stunned with how peaceful and personal it felt.
There was some guesswork involved because my mom had not done a dying wishes plan.  Fingers crossed she loved it.
She slipped away with a smile.  
A few days later I received a call from her doctor who wanted to share that she had  purchased the atomizer and scent for several rooms in her house.  And that she thinks about me when she smells the dreamstate scent.  She asked me if I was a death doula?  How did I know to do all those things with little to no time.

That is when I knew, whatever a death doula was, I needed to become one officially.
And here I am a today, at your service.

I grew up working at North York General Hospital and no stranger to navigating the system. I spent 30 years in the media landscape and most recently the prepared meals industry.

I am a Certified Death Doula trained by Olga Nikolajev at Sinclair College
Additionally completed the Accessibility Program with The Rick Hansen Foundation.