Helen Greenspan has been rubbing up close to death, dying, grief and all things vulnerable since she was very young. Having had some hugely significant losses in her teens, she experienced the lack of understanding, education and support relating to dying and grief in our culture. Determined to embrace this unavoidable part of life she became a Hospice Nurse, providing care, advocacy and education for those who are dying and their loved ones, and has been working in that capacity for 34 years. Each individual she has served has been her teacher, and she is deeply grateful for their trust at such a vulnerable time of their life.

Perhaps above all. Helen is a fierce advocate for upholding the dignity of living beings, whether in living or in dying.

Helen is a graduate of the Metta Institute End of Life Practitioner Program 2003, founded by Frank Ostaseski, which focusses primarily on the spiritual aspects of dying, and is a member of the Threshold Choir to which she contributes original songs. The choir sings in small groups at the bedside of the dying.

Recently retired from her work as a Hospice Nurse, Helen is now turning her energies toward educating people about the multifaceted aspects of dying (physical, emotional, relational and spiritual) while continuing to help people learn how to advocate for themselves and their wishes in an increasingly challenging medical system. She is thrilled to be starting with Conscious Dying Collective.

Death is often seen solely as a medical event. This view does not allow for the possibilities for growth, deepening and transformation in the dying process. Helen is committed to broadening the conversation about death and dying with individuals and the community, illuminating the value inherent in this part of the life cycle.

Helen has a huge capacity to hold grief and loves supporting people through their own individual processes.