Grief Work and Funerals

I've written and rewritten these words many times. What can I share with you that gives you a deep insight into the person that I am, into the beautiful work that I offer and shares the details of the work that I do. What could I give you that gives you a taste of the essence of both my work and me. I'm going to get straight to the depths, that is where I often sit, in comfort. 

When I was 4 years old, I nearly died. And again, after the birth of my third child. Experiences like that awaken your soul. They show you what is important. They allow you to journey to the depths and learn how to, not only survive, but to thrive. Living with grief became a reality for me from a very young age and it's because of that, and because of how hidden my journey has been, that I believe I was guided to do this work. It is my life's work to give the opportunities to my community to die, grieve and be cared for in ways that weren't available to me.

My entry into grief and death work happened around 4 years ago. I was working as a birth doula and I was invited to work with a family who knew that their sweet baby wasn't going to live outside of the womb. Knowing the depth of support that they would need, I began to immerse myself into books, in workshops and a residential course to learn all that I needed to truly show up for them. I didn't realise at the time, I was already well equipped. Being in the birth room that day was as heartbreaking as you would imagine it to be, and... and it was beautiful, it was full of love and I knew in those very sacred moments, that I belonged there. 

Holding funerals is part of my soul's purpose. Weaving the threads of someone's life together to tell their story fills my heart with joy. Supporting families and loved ones through the ceremony of death, tending to the death rites of the individual and holding space for bereavement and grief is so deeply connected to my soul. 

I set up Shrewsbury Grief Cafe which is held in Shrewsbury Library with the aim of bringing conversations around grief and death right to the centre of the community. Community tending has been a part of my role for many many years and having this grief cafe, which is soon to expand across Shropshire, Wales and the West Midlands, is truly humbling. So many people are supported by this service which is free to all those in attendance.

My offerings have deepened as I have journeyed into my own healing. As I have received the capacity to hold bigger and deeper emotions and ceremonies. Titrating with the work means that I have the skills and emotional capacity to support you and the community around you. 

I want to send you a huge amount of love. If you're here because your loved one has died. I'm so very sorry. I hope you are feeling cared for and please remember, support is available. You don't have to do this one your own. If you are here because you are a fellow worker in these fields, I welcome you. Please book a Connection Call if you'd like to meet with me.