My Journey

I’ve always had a deep calling to support people during difficult times. Growing up as a Baptist minister's daughter, caregiving was modeled to me through the loving actions of my family. This foundational experience shaped my passion for helping others navigate life’s most challenging moments.

Born in Brookings, SD, and raised in various places throughout my childhood, my life took a significant turn shortly after graduating from Harding County High School. Just two weeks after graduation, I was involved in a serious car accident, which changed the course of my life. I went on to study communications in college and later moved to Sioux Falls in 1998, where I built a family of my own.

In Sioux Falls, I became a stay-at-home mom and started a successful Pampered Chef business, where I grew into a leadership role for 24 years. Eventually, I retired from Pampered Chef to follow my heart’s calling and launch Blue Heron Doula Services, where I now offer end-of-life care.

My journey into ministry began unexpectedly through roller derby, which I co-founded in Sioux Falls. I was honored to serve as the co-founder of the Sioux Falls Roller Dollz and later founded a junior league as well. My mission with the Sioux Falls Junior Roller Derby league was always to use the sport to help children and families from all walks of life develop strong character while having fun. My involvement in the roller derby community earned me the nickname "Pastor of Roller Derby" from my church, a title that deeply connected me to my calling of serving others.

This path led me to realize the need for more education in providing meaningful support, which inspired me to pursue seminary and Clinical Pastoral Education. My understanding of grief and loss deepened profoundly in 2020 when my parents were struck by a drunk driver. My father, who had been in remission from cancer, tragically passed away from his injuries after weeks in the ICU. This experience heightened my empathy and understanding of end-of-life care.

Today, as an end-of-life doula, I bring my deep empathy, personal experience with grief, and commitment to caring for others into every aspect of my work. I am here to guide and support you and your loved ones during this sacred time, with my primary goal of providing comfort, dignity, and peace in life’s final moments.