Some have asked, “Why do you do what you do?” The simple answer is because I truly care.
This profession found me rather than me finding it. In December of 2016 I sadly accompanied a close friend to the emergency veterinarian hospital where her ill, elderly dog was being taken care of. After several minutes speaking with the veterinarian, she made the heartbreaking decision to euthanize her dog. Moments later we found ourselves in an examination room and with a heavy heart she said her final good-byes.
Three months later my son’s beautiful Bernese had a tragic accident. After several heart wrenching days of trying to save his life, my son and his wife made the difficult and humane decision to euthanize their dog. The doctors concurred with their decision and my son asked me to accompany him. As an animal lover I was heartbroken, but as a mother I was crushed. My son and his wife’s world had just been pulled out from under them and there was nothing I could do or say to make it better. It was at that moment I made a promise to myself; I would do whatever I could to support pet-parents as they navigate through their own grief journey. Though uncertain of where my journey was going to take me, I was confident in knowing that I embodied empathy to care, the passion to give and the ability to learn. With resolve, faith and steadfast hope, I stepped forward into the unknown.
I have been humbled by witnessing the courage my clients have displayed. I have been humbled by them entrusting me to support them during their grief journey. I have walked alongside them through the dark abyss and have felt their heartache and turmoil. As I have personally walked this road, I am aware of the whirlwind of emotions and devastation the loss brings. With patience and compassion, I encourage them to move forward, slowly, step by step. There is no judgement, no shame, no condemnation; just a safe place for them to express their pain, guilt and confusion. I have journeyed with many through this dark, deep tunnel and what keeps me going is knowing that there is a light at the abyss’s end. When they reach it, their gratitude is sincere. I am not ashamed to reveal it is in those moments I have shed a tear.
The simple answer is, I truly care.
~ Helen