Work History

SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome) Wellington Inc

This was my training ground for working with others, initially providing front-line response and support for other parents whose child had died. My role expanded to include coordinating the 24hr phone line, providing SIDS/Grief education/training in the community and workplace and coordinating the service until its closure in 2008. Eleven valuable years of learning, support, growth, enrichment, and healing.

Grief Relief Ltd

I started my own business in 2010. I missed supporting bereaved families and wanted to continue utilizing my experience, training, knowledge and skills, applicable to all kinds of loss. I felt that this was the work I was here for and still feel that way. In addition, it gives me the opportunity to honour my son Jeremy whose brief life continues to inform me.

Guardian, Harbour City and Wilson Funeral Homes

I have been providing bereavement support for their clients since 2009.  Three complimentary sessions are available as a part of their service.

Skylight

For a decade or more, my association with Skylight was closely aligned with the Wellington Grief Networker’s Forum. My work for Skylight included development of grief resources, parent group facilitation, professional development and phone support post the Christchurch earthquakes.

Encore Programme – YWCA Auckland

I delivered the Encore Programme in the Hutt Valley for six years. Encore was a national water-based exercise programme for women after breast-cancer treatment.  It was designed for rebuilding the self physically, mentally, emotionally, and socially through exercise, information, and support.

Cancer Society – Wellington Division

Alongside Encore, I facilitated cancer support groups in the Hutt Valley for six years, a women’s Breast Cancer group and a mixed gender, all cancers group.  I also co-facilitated their Living Well programme in the Hutt Valley, Wellington and Mana, in community and hospital settings.

Wellington Region ME/CFS Support Group Inc

For several years, I was the Community Support Coordinator for people living with the chronic illness; Myalgia Encephalitis (ME), Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS), Fibromyalgia and related disorders. I facilitated five different monthly support groups, provided individual phone support and home visits, and held the organisation’s 0800 phone line.

Parent Help Wellington

For a year or more, I coordinated volunteers for Parent Help’s 24hr phone line, responded to parenting calls and provided administrative support.