In March 2020 I lost my husband of 25yrs to cancer. It was a relatively short journey, just a year from diagnosis. During this year, I was able to connect with Julie. I cannot tell you how helpful her insight was. I had never done this before, and she helped me navigate what to expect while he was sick, while he was dying, and she has supported me in the year after his death. Julie brings a sense of calm and I know this might sound odd…but a bit of laughter, which I so needed. She was a sounding board for my emotions, and answered my endless questions. But most of all, she was able to comfort me and make me feel like I was not alone. Julie has years of experience with hospice care, and through her own personal story was able to connect with me as almost no one else could. She could relate, which was so helpful. I am honored that she shared her journey, wisdom and love with me during such a difficult time in my life. I am forever grateful.
– Heather
I had the pleasure of meeting Julie 15 years ago in my capacity as her husband’s palliative care nurse. She is a kind, caring, and empathetic individual, who will commit to providing practical, emotional and spiritual support to her clients during an acutely difficult time. In her capacity as a volunteer at our local residential hospice, I’ve observed these qualities in her also.
– Donna P
Julie is an exceptional person. Due to devastating losses in her own life, she has become a dedicated advocate for not only the dying but their families too. She is very empathetic to your needs and with care and affection will guide you step by step through your journey.
– Emma
Although I haven’t known Julie long, I immediately felt a connection with her as if we had known one another for years. She is warm and inviting with a gentle nature and is no stranger to being honest and open. She offers words that are always kind, calming, and non-judgmental. She has a way of making you look at life with a different lens, allowing you time to process your own thoughts with comfort and acceptance.
– E.P.
I have been a close friend of Julie Cryns for almost twelve years. When I first met her, she had two small children and a husband battling cancer. Over the years I have watched her undertake many charitable endeavours, from collecting used clothing for those in need and collecting much needed toiletries for Inn From the Cold to volunteering at The Margaret Bahen Hospice over Christmas and New Year. She does these things for all the right reasons. Hence, it came as no surprise when she told me she wanted to focus her career on becoming an end of life doula. I couldn’t think of anyone more suited.
This past year I have had a loved one inflicted with cancer. Aside from providing me with valuable knowledge and support, she calls me every day just ‘to check in.’ I know if I were to call Julie at 3:00am, she would be at my door with the car running before I even got downstairs. That’s just the kind of woman she is, and I’m fortunate to call her my friend.
– Shawn
When my dear uncle was in his last days during the pandemic, I couldn’t be present to provide support in person. It was hard for my cousins and I to know what to do to make the most of those precious hours with him as his consciousness and abilities continued to deteriorate. Julie provided us, not only with information on what to expect, but also with ideas for how we could continue to connect with, and support, my uncle in meaningful ways that are now special memories we will treasure always. I will always be grateful to Julie for her empathy, wisdom and kindness.
– Laura
I highly recommend Julie. She is qualified, incredibly kind, and extremely knowledgeable. She will guide and support you or a loved one through your end of life journey. There is no one I’d rather have by my side to help my family and I prepare for my death.
– Emma M
Thank you Julie.
You have been a wonderful leader for us . You touched us deeply with your understanding, your knowledge and wisdom . We will travel the road together as the journey unfolds for us.
– T & C.