My first experiences with death were with animals, where I accompanied my parents in euthanizing the family dog; seeing my parents cry, the veterinarian having a stoic face, and our dog’s last breaths after getting the IV put in. While my journey into the world of death and dying is as convoluted as life is, I’ve always felt the pull to help. In nursing school, I was given assignment of a patient with the most complex palliative case, while others got their regular 4-patient load. This led me to a practicum in hospice, which has then led me to work in this area for the last ten years. It has always felt like a privilege, to work in this area of healthcare.  

Our society used to have that village mentality, where there were midwives, children watchers, and companions to our elderly. We used to have people in our communities that would take care of the dead - to nurse them in their dying hours, to care for their bodies afterwards, and to take the load off of the family to help with wakes and funerals. This need for support has been with us as long as we have been human. This is what I want to bring back. My wish is to bring back that supporting role, while also modernizing it. To bring into it the wise compassion, while also being knowledgable of our current systems. 

I have taken the Contemplative End of Life Care course with the Institute of Traditional Medicine in 2022, and I am currently working towards getting certified with the End of Life Doula Association of Canada. My hope is that with my many years of being a Registered Nurse in hospice/palliative care, and with my recent training, that you will consider me to help and support you throughout this difficult journey. 

- Emilie