About Michelle

I believe that preparing for death and supporting families is an act of care and love. My aim is to help people through these times with compassion and empathy, so there is space to hold grief, fear, curiosity, or any of the many feelings that might show up.

 

My path into this work has been shaped by both lived experience and practical training. I hold a BA in English from Carleton University and have spent many years working in the funeral industry, where I supported families during some of their hardest moments. What I learned is that every family, every individual, grieves differently. Everyone has their own unique  needs, and the best way to meet those needs is by truly being there and listening. I've carried that philosophy forward through continued education in grief, bereavement, and end-of-life studies. These experiences allow me to bridge the practical and the emotional - bringing not only knowledge of systems and processes, but also a deep respect for humanity, not just in life, but in death as well.

 

I've come to see death as both the most human and the most universal experience we share. We may each grieve differently, carry different beliefs, or even avoid thinking about it altogether - but it connects us all. My hope is that by preparing together, we can make space for love, family, and grieving, instead of being weighed down by uncertainty and logistics.

 

I don't work from a checklist. I work by listening and being present, so I can understand each individual and do my best to make people feel supported and less alone. Each conversation is unique, shaped by the needs and stories of the people I meet. Whether I'm helping someone plan ahead, supporting a family through difficult conversations, or offering guidance after a death, my focus is always on being patient and understanding, and on helping people find calm, confidence, and peace of mind.