Compassionate End-of-Life Planning

I never expected my life’s work to lead me into end-of-life care. Like many, this path emerged through lived experience—through introspection and experiencing deep grief, transition, and love. After relocating to Florida and navigating profound personal loss, I came to understand that grief is not limited to death alone. It includes the loss of identity, roles, relationships, and the life we once knew. 

My calling became clear during my mother’s journey with dementia. Supporting my family through complex medical decisions and witnessing the power of compassionate hospice care deeply shaped me. My mother passed peacefully at home, surrounded by family—a sacred experience that revealed the importance of preparation, presence, and honoring her wishes. 

Today, I serve as an advanced directives facilitator, an end-of-life/death doula, and I offer calm guidance, emotional and spiritual support, and compassionate presence. My work is grounded in my christian faith and the belief that preparing for the end of life is an act of love—and that holding space for others is one of life’s greatest honors. 

                                                     
~ Diana Allende Appel