About Me
Lisa is a life long ,peer support provider, and an end-of-life specialist. I grew up working at North York General Hospital and is no stranger to navigating the system. She spent 30 years in the media landscape and most recently in her prepared meals business.
Lisa came to know death with the passing of her first pup Nikky. She later rediscovered caregiving and anticipatory grief when her dad first started having mobility issues and was eventually chair bound and diagnosed with dementia. Diving in head first to a medical system riddled with twists and turns she quickly realized how every person needs and deserves an advocate. After her mom passed, she could no longer avoid the calling, and entered into end-of-life service.
But what's my story?
I had the privilege of being with both my parents at their last breath. I found it to be peaceful, intimate and very special.
My dad was in a hospice for just 24 hours. It was fast. 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.
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, Sage 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 am a Certified Death Doula who was trained by Olga Nikolajev @ Sinclair College
Additionally completed Accessibility Program with The Rick Hansen Foundation
I enjoy gardening, singing musicals, family dinners and long walks with my furry pal Jovie.