Light in the Dark
Rest Assured.
Welcome
Hi, I’m Dusty Rademacher — a death doula, educator, and compassionate guide helping individuals and families navigate the emotional, practical, and spiritual aspects of dying and grief.
ABOUT THIS WORK
What is a death doula?
Death is a profound part of life, and no one should have to face it alone. A death doula brings support, clarity, and compassion to help you or your loved ones navigate this transition.
TAILORED SUPPORT
Who is this for?
I support anyone seeking comfort, understanding, and guidance around the end of life. Whether you are approaching death, caring for a loved one, grieving, or planning ahead, I walk beside you with presence, compassion, and gentle care.
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Many people fear death because it is unknown. Through gentle, informative conversations I help bring clarity and understanding to the natural process of dying — physically, emotionally, and spiritually. This includes discussions on the dying process, signs and stages of death, and how to provide comfort and dignity in those final days. Education empowers families and removes unnecessary fear — allowing more space for love, presence, and meaning. Most importantly, education brings empowerment.
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Loneliness and isolation are common in the final chapters of life. As your death doula, I offer compassionate companionship — simply being — and listening without judgement, and holding space for whatever emotions arise. This presence brings calm and reassurance to both the dying person and their loved ones. Companionship is not about fixing or doing, it’s about being-and reminding each person that they are not alone.
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The final hours of life can be sacred. I will help individuals and families plan the atmosphere and details of their vigil. This includes the dying person’s wishes for their surroundings, music, scents, rituals, readings or prayers, and comfort measures. Vigil planning creates an environment of peace and love, transforming fear into reverence and helping families experience the profound beauty that can exist at the threshold of life and death.
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As death approaches, unresolved emotions, regrets, or unfinished conversations often surface. As your death doula I will gently help you and/or your family explore what needs to be expressed or released. Whether it’s writing letters, guiding conversations, letter writing, or simply listening, this process can lift emotional burdens and allow for peace and reconciliation. Healing and forgiveness, even late in life, can bring deep peace.
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Every life holds stories worth remembering. Legacy projects help individuals reflect on their life’s meaning and leave behind something. It can be tangible — letters, recordings, photo books, creative expression, recipes — or shared wisdom. As your death doula, I will guide the creation of these keepsakes, giving the individual a sense of purpose and their loved ones a timeless connection to cherish.
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Clarity brings comfort. As your death doula I will assist individuals in creating or reviewing advance directives, healthcare proxies, and other legal or personal documents that express their end of life wishes. This ensures decisions are made according to the person’s values, and relieves loved ones of the burden of guessing what the individual’s wishes might be. Making end of life choices ahead of time ensures that your wishes are known and respected.
Services
WHERE TO START
LET’S CONNECT
Reach out when you’re ready.
I’m here to answer questions, offer guidance, and walk with you through this sacred transition.