I am a death doula committed to making death education part of our community conversation. Having had the honor of holding space at the bedside of three family members as they took their last breaths, I was awestruck to my core by the experience of death. The intensity was palpable, and the time-outside-of-time surrounding each passing was one of quiet reverence. The most recent case was the death of my oldest son from colorectal cancer on March 8th of 2021. The path to his final days was not a peaceful one. But even though he was filled with anger and frustration, I had to honor these feelings and meet him where he was. I spent the final night with him not only as his mother, but as his death doula.
At the time my son died, I was not even aware that death doulas existed. But soon after this, I saw a post on social media advertising an end of life doula training through the University of Vermont, and I knew I needed to pursue this path. I have spent the past 37 years working with individuals with disabilities. I’ve worked in group homes, managed an employment program for individuals with disabilities, and advocated for people with brain injuries. (I was a facilitator in a peer study on brain injury that is published in The Journal of Head Trauma Rehabilitation.)
Currently I work with students in special education, helping them reach their post-high school goals. I’m also exploring how I might become more involved with end-of-life support services. I recognize that the subject of death is historically taboo, and I want to play my part in bringing the conversation into the mainstream. I believe that the ability to face death consciously can greatly enhance our everyday lives. And planning ahead, if and when we know the end is near, can lay the groundwork for an easier, more meaningful transition. I am available for consultations, presentations and workshops.
I can be contacted at lynne_knight@msn.com or 412-498-1288.
You can also contact me via Promise Me Momma.