Our Doulas

Our doulas ensure a meaningful and dignified end-of-life journey of peace. They empower through education, compassionate support and gentle guidance.

Michelle McKillop

My name is Michelle McKillop and I am the mother of 3 amazing children, 5 wonderful grandchildren and one incredible husband. I currently live in Summit County Ohio, and I love kayaking, hiking, camping, reading and volunteering.

In addition to these "credentials" I have degrees in Early Childhood Education and Administration, Social Health Services and Veterinary Technology. I have been blessed to hold several positions in these fields from administrator and community educator to in-patient and out-patient mental health counselor and therapist as well as a Licensed Veterinary Technician in an animal emergency hospital.

I have dedicated my life through these non-profit organizations to service the people and animals of our communities during some of the most trying and challenging experiences of their lifetimes, and I am now excited to say that I will be continuing this tradition in my role as a trained End-Of-Life Doula and co-owner of Journey of Peace, Inc.

Doula services provide comfort, compassion and support to families and their loved ones in the end stages of their lives. It it my goal and my sacred honor to accompany our brothers and sisters and their beloved pets as they journey from fear to peace and from despair to the hope of having the best best end-of-life experience they could possibly have.

Barbara Gedeon

During my 16+ years as a Palliative/Hospice/Oncology RN I
was able to witness many different kinds of transitions. Those that were peaceful, full of love and a
celebration of life were great to be a part of. Those that were lonely, difficult, filled with misconceptions and a lack of understanding left me with a hollow feeling.

I choose become a Death Doula because I feel that deaths do not need to be tough and with a change in practices this transition can be a source of contentment and peace. My goal would be that no one dies alone unless that is their wish.

A holistic approach will be provided not only including western medicine guidance but an exploration of herbs and essential oils as appropriate. I was present when my sister and brother passed. I had told them both that I would make sure that I was there and that I would help meet their wishes, whatever they might be.

Family support is important, but family cannot always be present so Death Doulas can bridge that gap not only in their presence, but also in their knowledge and guidance.

Prior to my journey as a nurse, I managed various testing
laboratories so my experience in running a business helps me to ensure that this organization has the resources to provide the support needed to families.

As an active flower gardener and supplier of bouquets to
Farmer’s Markets, in season, all of my clients will receive flowers during their time with our organization

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