When people find out I'm a licensed funeral director, they usually ask why I chose this work and I'm never quite sure how to answer but to say, “it chose me”. After changing my college major several times I transferred to the mortuary science program at Mount Ida College outside of Boston, MA, and finished the Associate of Science degree in 2002. While working in funeral homes as an intern and licensed director I determined that I didn't like the embalming chemicals that would burn my eyes and throat when I entered the preparation room. I thought there must be a more natural way to care for people after death.

Palliative care social worker and death doula available for consultation and collaboration

Executive Director, Pittsburgh Bereavement Doulas

I’m fascinated by the way conversations about death tend to be postponed or avoided, even though death is inevitable for every living being. I am honored to help people explore the question of what a “good death” means to them, and I encourage them to live a “good life” as they define it. I also assist clients in making sense of their things and their space to support their lifestyle and life purpose. That work very often leads to conversations about legacy, how they want to experience the dying process, and the sometimes daunting but practical details of ensuring that their “final affairs are in order.”

I am a Death Doula committed to making death education a part of our community conversation. Having had the honor of holding space at the bedside of three family members as they took their last breaths, I was awestruck to the core by the experience of death.

I am a celebrant, death doula, dance teacher, and yoga instructor. I lead grief movement classes throughout Pittsburgh, including regular classes at Art in Motion dance studio, private grief retreats, and as a special guest at Point Park University's dance department. I also offer individual grief movement sessions in person or by video call. I completed my End of Life Doula training through Going with Grace, hold a PA state Visual Art Education certification, and am an ordained minister through American Marriage Ministries.

My experiences as a combat veteran have shaped my opinions and thoughts on death and morality. I truly believe that we are not promised the next breath and living in the now, with a healthy understanding of the dying process, is the best way to prepare for our own end.