Natural Deathcare Workshop
On Sunday, March 23, from 2:15-3:45pm, at the West Tisbury Library, Heather Massey and Viennia Booth will lead a natural deathcare workshop. Free and open to the public.
Join us for an interactive workshop designed to teach the essential techniques and materials needed to care for loved ones after death in a home or community setting. In this hands-on demonstration, we will explore the basics of natural deathcare, including how to prepare and care for the body respectfully and gently, using simple, effective products and methods. Participants will learn practical skills for washing, dressing, and keeping the body cool (natural preservation). This session aims to empower individuals and communities to take an active role in honoring the deceased while fostering connection and care at the end of life.
About the presenters:
Heather Massey, MSW, is a community death educator, end-of-life specialist, and consumer advocate for post-death options and choices, with over four decades of professional experience in the field of death, dying, and bereavement. A lifelong student of thanatology, she studied and trained with Dr. Elizabeth Kübler-Ross and other specialists within the field. Massey is a former hospital social services director and VNA/hospice administrator, having practiced in the US and the UK. She is passionate about providing free death-related learning opportunities in the community and frequently teaches at medical, academic, and environmental conferences at regional, national, and international venues.
Massey’s family background includes home births and deaths, including three generations of home and family-based after-death care. She advocates for sharing and reviving the ancient art of natural deathcare and how it benefits families, communities, and the environment.
Viennia Lopes Booth explores the intersections of life, death, and the plant world as an educator, advocate, and earth tender. Her experience looking after her father at the end of his life led her on a deep exploration of natural deathcare, and she shares her personal story to help spread awareness about alternative options. She strives to empower families and communities to care for their loved ones at the time of death. Viennia encourages consideration about choices around deathcare and its impact on the environment, our communities, and each other. She is currently working toward creating a conservation burial ground in her home county and forming a nonprofit focused on community-empowered and ecologically conscious deathcare advocacy. Learn more at www.oldbriarbotanicals.com.