Meet Judy
I became an end-of-life doula because of my best friend. Today I walk beside families across Central Florida, in English and in Spanish, at home, in hospice and in care facilities.
I became an end-of-life doula because of my best friend. When she was dying, I stayed by her side for 3 months. Those months taught me what it means to be alive, and what it means to leave this life with dignity, with company and with peace.
Today I walk beside families across Central Florida, at home, in hospice and in care facilities. I help start the conversations that feel too heavy to begin, I explain what to expect, and I bring calm when emotions run high. When families understand what is happening, fear softens into presence.
I work in English and in Spanish, so the person at the center and every member of the family can be heard in the language closest to their heart.
I’m comfortable with prayer, scripture and ritual when they bring comfort, and with quiet when that is what’s needed. confirm wording
Watch Judy tell the story of why she does this work (30 seconds).
Training and memberships
What families can expect from me
Presence
Unhurried time. I don’t watch the clock at the bedside, and I don’t rush a family through a hard conversation.
Honesty
Gentle, plain explanations of what is happening and what usually comes next, so no one is left guessing or afraid.
Respect
Your loved one’s wishes, beliefs and culture come first. I follow your hospice team’s plan of care and your family’s lead.
The 3 regretspeople share at the end.
Not speaking their truth. Not spending enough time with the people they love. Not saying “I love you” or “thank you” often enough. Nobody mentions money or work. That is why I believe preparing early is one of the kindest things a family can do.