Today we’d like to introduce you to Carolyn Reveal
Hi Carolyn, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I still have a note from my nursing school instructor about a patient I cared for. She stated my assessment of the emotional needs of my patient was excellent and I had connected on a level that others had not. He was a terminal patient who was alone and I talked to him frankly and with acceptance of his death. That was the first seed planted and as I cared for my aunts and uncles when they were dying, and later my mother and father, I realized I had a gift. This early experience helped me become aware of how important it is to meet my patients where they are and not have preconceived ideas or judgments. I was kind, truthful, realistic, and caring during times of crisis, the unknown, and when people are most vulnerable.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
The road to learning, understanding, and practicing empathy and compassion has been difficult—circuitous, bumpy, and sometimes overwhelming. My journey has been shaped by experiences that tested and transformed me.
Right out of college, I was in an abusive relationship. I was fortunate to have caring friends who helped lift me up and gave me the strength to save myself. Through that experience, I learned the power of vulnerability, the importance of truth, and that I was enough just as I was.
My husband and I had a son born at 26 weeks—one of the earliest preemies saved in our area at the time. That chapter of my life taught me about advocacy, persistence, patience, trust, and faith. I learned to educate myself, think outside the box, and never stop fighting for the people I love.
When my father was diagnosed with glioblastoma, he passed just six weeks later. That short but intense time taught me about communication, facing fears, and knowing when to let go. Later, my mother came to live with my family during the final six months of her life as she battled nasopharyngeal cancer. She showed me the importance of feeling safe and loved at the end of life, making decisions ahead of time so her voice could be heard—even in death.
My family and I cared for my husband in our home until he passed from ALS. That experience taught me that life has meaning until the very last breath. I learned about dignity, integrity, forgiveness, and acceptance in ways I never would have imagined.
I have faced breast cancer twice, undergoing surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation. Cancer is a lonely road. It has given me a deeper appreciation for life, moments of hope, and the unexpected joy that can emerge even in struggle.
Each of these experiences has shaped me, leading me to my work as a cancer and end-of-life doula. They have taught me how to hold space for others in their most vulnerable moments, to listen without fear, and to walk alongside people as they navigate life’s hardest transitions.
I have worked hard to better myself through education, self-care, and therapy. I have survived and thrived, emerging as a strong, resilient, and confident woman.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
My work as a cancer and end-of-life doula is deeply personal and rooted in my own experiences with loss, caregiving, and resilience. I walk alongside individuals and families as they navigate their journey, offering emotional, practical, and spiritual support. This can be through meaningful conversations, guiding families through difficult decisions, or simply being a steady presence when things feel overwhelming.
Bringing comfort, dignity, and peace to people in their final days is an honor and privilege. Death is often feared and avoided in our culture. I help families and clients rest in the comfort that they are not alone during this sacred, meaningful transition
I’m known for my intuition, empathy, and ability to meet people exactly where they are. Whether providing reassurance to family members or helping someone find closure in their final moments, I bring a sense of calm and understanding to the process. My background—having walked through so many personal experiences with loss—allows me to connect with people on a profound level.
Is there something surprising that you feel even people who know you might not know about?
The Kintsugi Breast Cancer Photography Project is a deeply personal and healing experience I created for breast cancer survivors. Inspired by the ancient Japanese art of Kintsugi—where broken pottery is mended with gold to highlight its history rather than hide its flaws. I invited survivors to gather for a healing ceremony using this method as a metaphor for our journeys.
Together, we laughed, cried, and acknowledged the many procedures and treatments we had endured. We shared our stories, allowing our bodies—marked by surgeries and scars—to be seen, touched, and gently painted with gold. Our scars were not hidden but enhanced, a testament to our resilience and strength.
We reflected on our trials and triumphs, honored those who came before us, and expressed gratitude for the loved ones who supported us along the way. The project became a visual and emotional testament to survival, healing, and the beauty that emerges from brokenness.
This exhibit was displayed at The Well, Center for Wellness and the Main Branch of the Dayton Metro Library. I was also honored to present the project at Pecha Kucha Night Dayton in December.
Pricing:
- My services are private pay.
Contact Info:
