My career has been nothing if not varied. Over the years I’ve been a forensic scientist, a barmaid, a fashion and travel journalist, a published author, a jewellery consultant and a business owner. But of everything I’ve turned my hand to, working as an end-of-life doula has been the most profound – both professionally and personally.
My mother’s death was the catalyst that set me on this path. In those last weeks of her life, our family was caught up in the uncertainty of it all – the day-to-day practicalities, the complex systems around death and dying, our grief in all its hues. When I later discovered the work of end-of-life doulas, things fell into place. I knew this was what I wanted to do – to be a steady, capable presence for others in the same situation.
Whether you’re approaching the end of your own life or accompanying someone you love, I’ll shape my support around what you need. This might be practical help – documenting your wishes, navigating medical or administrative systems, or creating a legacy project. It might be emotional or spiritual companionship: someone to sit with you in the hard moments, or simply to be present. Often, it is some combination of these.
My approach is to enter each new relationship with curiosity and compassion in equal measure. Every person carries a story worth honouring, and part of what I offer is the space and attention to help that story be told, heard, or passed on.
While I don’t have a religious practice of my own, I respect the importance of faith, ritual and spirituality in many people’s lives, and will gladly explore these in whatever form feels right.
In my personal life, I like to swim, dance and grow things. I love fashion, art, travel, food, animals and the company of good friends. I’m also half Spanish and fluent in the language – and very happy to support Spanish-speaking individuals and families.