To create a culture where the subject of death is openly discussed without aversion or fear. This healthy dialogue can be achieved through education, empowerment, and encouragement, making way for us to honor life, validate legacy, and greet end-of-life with grace.

To offer practical guidance, heart-centered support, and honest answers about end-of-life concerns. I have opened the door for difficult conversations, actively supported, and have had the privilege of being fully present for patients, friends, and family during their last moments of life.

This experience motivates me to be of service to those facing death. For loved ones that are navigating through an imminent loss, may I be a beacon to guide you through the fog of fear and uncertainty.

I am based out of the rural town of Norco, California, where I share my home with dogs, cats, and chickens.

I am the proud mom to three amazing young adults and a few extras that claim me as “mom”. My tribe keeps me entertained and laughing every single day. I love them with all my heart and have much gratitude for the bond that we share.

Along with my kids and critters, I would say my favorite things in life would be cooking, camping, and the healing magic of music.

Coming from a diverse and multi-cultural background, I embrace all the delicious flavors of international cuisine. That said, I’m going to admit that this foodie’s “fusion” culinary skills are above average!

Professionally, I’ve sat quietly with parents in the NICU as they held and kissed their tiny newborn farewell.

At the local cemetery, I’ve worked directly with grieving families in planning and preparation of funeral and burial arrangements.

I’ve navigated through my own heartbreak and nightmares of red tape upon the death of some friends and family members.

I have worked for and volunteered at various hospice agencies in Southern California. It is awe inspiring to see the comfort and support that hospice can provide for a “good death” experience. However, due to our fractured healthcare system, it is these agencies, patients, and families that can benefit from the added holistic support of a Doula.

My place in this universe is offering the tools that allow us to assume our mortality, invest in our choices, and manage end-of-life with courage and dignity.

Death of Mom

In 1997, the weight of the world was dropped upon my shoulders when my mother suffered a massive stroke that would take her life in a matter of days. In the blink of an eye, I would go from “daughter” to “next-of-kin”, and would be making crisis-driven decisions that I was completely not prepared for. Two days later, I would find myself planning a funeral. At 53 years young, my mom certainly did not expect to exit with so many incomplete tasks, let alone leaving her young daughter with these heavy burdens. Sadly, her life did not allow time to plan, so business was left unfinished and many questions unanswered.

Death of Bevan

In 2000, I would walk this sunset journey with my brother during his cancer diagnosis. His aggressive lung cancer was detected in the late stages and would lead to death before he ever saw his 38th birthday. Looking back, the best thing that came from the devastating news would be the short five weeks between diagnosis and death, that we were able to “sort things out”.

Breast Cancer

In 2012, I would be grappling with my own mortality as I was delivered this diagnosis after a routine mammo. Soon to follow would be multiple surgeries and all the fun things that come with chemo and radiation. Countless hours of comedy shows, meditation, and contemplation would be my new normal. This installment of life would require critical decisions for the care of my kids and pets. As a single parent with my boys (13 and 15 at the time), this diagnosis quickly made advance care planning no longer just a novel idea, but downright mandatory.

Death of Sammy

In 2020, I would lose my oldest brother amid the relentless Covid-19 pandemic. His death was sudden and tragically, in isolation. The precious gift he left before he died was clear communication and pre-planning. I will forever be grateful for this act of love.

Death of Dad

Most recently in April 2023, just shy of his 93rd birthday, my father would take his final breaths in the comfort of his home, surrounded by those that loved him most. Long before dementia set in, he vocalized and put his final thoughts in print for family and friends to observe. To say that a “good death” doesn’t come with its share of complications would be inaccurate, but what relief it was to have some direction. Much was planned in advance, down to his “Living Celebration of Life” where he was able to enjoy all the adoration, cake, and Cherry Garcia ice cream a dying man can ask for. Having the opportunity to complete his legacy and adhere to his final requests, brought a level of peace and comfort that is a blessing beyond measure.

The name of Sunset Bridge was carefully chosen with intent and deep meaning.

To “bridge” the gap between acute medical treatment and holistic care at end of life. For death is not a medical occurrence, but a sacred chapter of life itself.

On a much more personal level, Sunset Bridge share the initials of my late brothers, Sammy and Bevan, who I miss so deeply. I honor my brothers by helping others on their own journey toward a beautiful sunset.