Embracing Life's Final Chapter: Joan Bretthauer's

Journey

Welcome

to ACE End-of-Life Doula Services. I'm Joan Bretthauer.

I’m here to guide you through one of life’s most profound journeys.

Joan Bretthauer is an end-of-life doula serving individuals and families.

A Calling Born from Love

My path to becoming an end-of-life doula began in 2002, at my father’s bedside. As my mother and I cared for him during his final days, supported by a local hospice team, I discovered a profound truth: the end of life is not just about saying goodbye—it’s about embracing a sacred transition with dignity, love, and understanding.

My father’s death ignited a passion within me. I realized that many families lack the education and resources to navigate end-of-life decisions. That’s when I knew: this was my calling.

Mission-Driven Care

At ACE End-of-Life Doula Services, my mission is simple yet profound:
To transform the end-of-life experience through compassion, education, and advocacy, ensuring
that every individual’s final journey is honored, respected, and filled with dignity.
I believe in creating a client-centered approach, providing comfort, guidance, and support to individuals of ALL backgrounds. Your story, your values, your wishes—they’re at the heart of everything I do.

A Journey of Learning and

Growth

My commitment to this mission has led me on an incredible journey of learning and growth:

  • Doulagivers Institute – Certified End-of-Life Doula, Certified Care Consultant, Certified Elder Care Doula
  • The Sacred Art of Living Center – Anamcara Graduate; Healing Practices at the End of Life; Healing the Healers; The Art of Living and Dying; – Spiritual Formation
  • Essentia Nobilis Aromatherapy, Jonathan Benavides – Aromatic Sentinel
  • Francesca Arnoldy – Death Literacy Educator
  • Respecting Choices – Certified Advance Care Planning Facilitator
  • The Institute for the Study of Birth, Breath & Death – Holding Space Consultant
  • Teepa Snow Positive Approach to Care – Dementia Support
  • BJC Hospice – Volunteer

Academic credentials:

  • Lindenwood University – Master of Science, Corporate & Industrial Communications
  • Lindenwood University – Bachelor of Science, Mass Communications

Leadership and community involvement:

  • Founder, Midwest End-of-Life Doula Collective
  • President Emeritus, Gateway End-of-Life Coalition
  • Board of Directors, National End-of-Life Doula Alliance (NEDA)
  • Community Advocate – Actively working to improve end-of-life care legislation in Washington D.C. and Missouri

Beyond the Bedside: Advocacy and Education

My work extends beyond the bedside. Since 2010, I’ve been actively engaged as a hospice volunteer, witnessing firsthand the unique challenges faced by individuals and families during this vulnerable time.

As a community advocate, I work to improve end-of-life care legislation in Washington D.C. and Missouri. My extensive training in Advance Care Planning and communication with terminally ill patients allows me to bridge the gap between medical care and emotional support.

The Privilege of Presence

People often ask me, “isn’t it depressing?” or, “How can you work with the dying?” The truth is being present is a profound privilege. Death has never frightened me—even as a child, I was curious about
this universal human experience.

Having witnessed both my parents die peacefully at home, I’ve come to see death not as something to fear, but as a natural part of life’s cycle. My comfort with death is intertwined with my interest and curiosity in near-death experiences, deathbed visions, and the mysteries that surround our final moments.

Let's Write Your Story

Together

Whether you’re facing end-of-life decisions, seeking guidance for a loved one, or simply want to have an open conversation about mortality, I’m here to listen, support, and guide you. With my background in Corporate and Industrial Communications and over 30 years dedicated to the welfare of others, I bring a unique blend of professional expertise and heartfelt compassion to every interaction.

Together, we can create a meaningful, peaceful, and even beautiful transition. Your story matters, and I’m honored to help you write its final chapters with grace, dignity, and love.

Ready to Begin?

Let’s start this journey together. Reach out to ACE End-of-Life Doula Services, and let’s explore how we can honor your life, your way.

learn about end-of-life doulas

Joan Bretthauer: End-of-Life Doula, Advocate, Speaker, and Compassionate Guide for Life’s Final Journey

P.S. As a sought-after speaker on End-of-Life Doulas, Advance Care Planning, and Death Literacy, I’m always eager to share knowledge and foster understanding. If you’re looking for someone to bring insight and compassion to these vital topics, I’d be honored to contribute to your event or organization.