From a caregiver whom I served as an End of Life Doula for:
"Trying to cope with a loved one who has received a fatal diagnosis is an extremely emotional and intense journey. As you try to absorb the reality of the situation most times you feel overwhelmed. Being open to help and support from an outside source is tremendously comforting .Colleen was that for me. Totally unaware of this resource, once we met things feel into place. From giving me an outlet , to providing avenues to help navigate ,or just being kind. She was a valuable constant that helped my family during this unyielding situation. Being open to her and the help and comfort she can give you is a healing process all on its own. Allow her to help you with the grieving journey!!!"!
~Anonymous
From program director at a assisted living facility:
"The talk last week was really great. I truly appreciated how gently and thoughtfully you encouraged our residents to share their experiences and thoughts. You created a calm, welcoming atmosphere that felt warm and safe, making it easier for everyone to engage. The idea of sitting in a circle with candles added a beautiful touch, making the conversation feel even more intimate and special. I think it worked especially well with our small group of 10 people, allowing for meaningful discussions and connections.
~Sasha
From a mother to be:
"Colleen is truly a master of ceremonies! She organized, wrote the outline, and graciously "held the container" of my Blessingway Ceremony. What blew me away was how Colleen really sought to get my perspective of my motherhood journey in order to honor my path, my grief, and my joyful becoming. I felt that I was involved in the creation and process to the exact extent that I was comfortable. Colleen has this way of connecting with people on a deep level and really listening. That is just one part of her magic. When it comes to facilitating the different stages of ceremony, she is a natural at guiding people with the invitation to participate. Never does it feel like there's pressure or judgment.
The Blessingway was deeper, and more beautiful than I could have ever imagined. It was truly a sacred ceremony. There were tears, laughter, and bubbles! Colleen expertly wove in some surprises and last minute inspiration. Everything flowed perfectly. Not only did I come away feeling lighter, supported, and more ready for my journey, but I heard from many of the women in attendance that they also came away feeling a shift and like the ceremony was needed. It was a gift to us all, and it would not have been possible without Colleen's wisdom and passion."
~Geanette Orton Manny
From an attendee at a Vigil and Body Care Workshop
Joining Colleen and some other amazing local people for The Body Care workshop was more than I expected it would be.
As a nurse for 28 years, I had formed certain thoughts and feelings about death that were very medical and followed a checklist. This workshop introduced the spiritual side to me in a very unique way. It made it okay to slow down time and take a breath. To take the person in and hold space for them. It made it okay to reach out to local community members and ask for help and to share real feelings. It made death something to be respected and the body a vessel of beauty.
I look forward to more workshops and knowledge regarding death in our present time. Permission is granted for more than one way to operate when death arrives for us all. Hope is abound that we can all achieve peace.
~Kimberly Williams
From an Advance Care Planning Client-
Participating in a “community conversation” around End of Life and
After Death Care, facilitated by Colleen Corrigan of Sacred
Explorations, it became clear to me that her gentle, respectful
guidance, thoroughly researched resources and knowledge of
options as well as emotional and spiritual support impressed me
immensely.
Colleen’s skillful, mindful navigation of legal, medical, spiritual and
practical aspects of accommodating my choices as well as
addressing the concerns of my children has been a gift of comfort to
me as we worked together to put in place my final wishes.
Her professionalism, dedication, passion and presence during this
process has given me peace of mind and well-being that I and my
family have put in place a plan, ready to retrieve when needed. I am in
gratitude for the opportunity to recommend that you avail yourself of
her services.
Respectfully,
Bonnie Harlan-Stankus