Hi, I’m Jess, your friendly neighborhood death doula.

I’d say that I’m sorry you are here yet this is exactly where you are already so welcome and cared for. The trust my clients place in me at the end of life inspires a great responsibility and sustainable fuel for providing a high standard of care to all I serve. Thank you.

Okay, about me, huh?

I became a death doula after decades in the field of education as an English teacher and administrator. I became a death doula after decades of experiencing people die, after being born two months early and expected to die myself. I became a death doula decades after hearing the term and thinking, “wow, that’s a job?! I’d love to do that someday.” I do not take for granted that someday is now and that this is sacred work. When I’m not sitting vigil or facilitating a group, my favorite things to do are block printing, reading, writing, walking, playing, baking, soaking in hot water, and laying in grass.

Your last days are no less important than your first. As a teacher my work required attuning to others to facilitate ever-improving outcomes. My job was to ensure that among endless possibilities and pathways that at least some results were guaranteed; doula work feels similar. I guarantee unconditional care, non-judgemental listening, advocacy, and compassion. I used to talk a lot about “a life of one’s own design.” I have shifted to also consider “a death of one’s own design.” Now I am a student of those I serve to better understand how to support last experiences in alignment with deepest wishes. I am here to help you to move toward only what an ending can answer.

Looking forward with love,
Jess
Vermont Death Doula