End of Life Companion
Guiding a loved one through their final days is an act of love
The Gift of Presence
Supporting a loved one through the end-of-life journey is one of the most profound and tender experiences we can face. It requires a delicate balance of strength, empathy, and grace. As we walk alongside them during their final chapter, our role becomes one of gentle presence - offering comfort, dignity, and understanding in every moment.
Compassion is at the heart of this journey. It is expressed through listening without judgment, acknowledging their fears and hopes, and creating a space where they feel seen and valued. Compassion means holding their hand when words fail, allowing silence to be a source of connection, and reassuring them that they are not alone.
Practical support is equally vital. This may involve coordinating care, advocating for their wishes, and ensuring their physical and emotional needs are met. Sometimes, it means having difficult conversations about preferences for care, legacy, or how they wish to be remembered. These discussions can be emotionally challenging but often bring clarity and peace.
Navigating the end of life is also a journey of self-awareness for those providing care. It invites us to confront our own relationship with mortality, loss, and grief. Practicing self-compassion and seeking support ensures we can remain present and resilient throughout the process.
Ultimately, guiding a loved one through their final days is an act of love—a gift of presence that affirms their life and the bond you share. In this sacred space, we learn that compassion is not only about easing suffering but also about celebrating the beauty of a life well-lived, right up to its closing moments.
About
Tommy Sheridan
Tommy earned an MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Northwestern University. Although she specializes in child and adolescent development, she sees clients across the lifespan. She is deeply committed to supporting individuals through the joys and challenges of life and helping them thrive at every stage of their journey.
As a Claire Bidwell Smith's Grief & Loss Program graduate and certified death doula through Going with Grace End of Life Training, Tommy brings a unique depth of understanding to her work. Her work in hospice care helps families navigate the end-of-life process with compassion and sensitivity. Her commitment to supporting individuals and their loved ones during these profound moments underscores her dedication to fostering resilience and connection, even in the face of life's most difficult transitions.
Her personal experiences further enrich Tommy's therapeutic approach. As a breast cancer survivor, she intimately understands the physical, emotional, and psychological challenges of navigating a health journey. This personal insight allows her to connect with individuals on a deeper level, providing empathy and understanding for those facing health struggles.
Marty V., Chicago
“During my father’s final weeks, Tommy provided invaluable help and support, preparing our family for the impending loss. Tommy’s kindness and compassion were instrumental in guiding me and my mother through every aspect of this challenging process. Even though we worked remotely, the process was seamless and easy. We are deeply grateful for her professionalism and heartfelt commitment, which we will always remember."