Meet the founder

My grief journey began when I lost my mother at just 19 years old. Before her passing, I had been one of her caregivers since I was 13, so losing her changed every part of my life. In the years that followed, I struggled with depression, anxiety, and overwhelming grief. I didn't feel like I had anyone who truly understood what I was experiencing, so instead of processing my emotions, I learned to self-soothe and avoid them.

Eight years later, I unexpectedly lost my father. His passing reopened every wound I thought I had buried and forced me to confront the grief I had carried for years. It was during this difficult time that I realized how important it was to express my feelings instead of hiding them. I also discovered that I wasn't alone—many of my friends were navigating their own journeys through loss.

Out of that shared experience, I founded Children of Angels. What started as a small peer support group for friends became a safe, compassionate space where individuals grieving the loss of a parent or loved one could connect, share their stories, and remind one another that healing doesn't have to happen alone. 

As a result, I now lead COA's group sessions and have volunteered at the Uplift Center for Grieving Children. I have also obtained a certificate in Understanding Grief in Children from What's Your Grief Continuing Education, in addition to other certificates in other grief-related/trauma courses.

Children of Angels is now a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that provides a safe and healthy space for individuals to learn coping mechanisms and navigate through life following an extraordinary loss. We offer monthly peer grief meetings, resources and activities designed to promote emotional healing and growth.