

Affording Services
Let's talk about money
I believe in the power of community, compassion, and mutual support. I also recognize that we exist in a society where economic systems usually necessitate charging for services in order to sustain ourselves. While I envision and work towards a future rooted in liberation and communal well-being, I acknowledge the realities of the present: a world shaped by capitalism. ​​​Along with my comrades at PDX Queer Death Collective, I strongly believe in universal access to death care (and all grief care).
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I am committed to creating access for all, and I provide free and / or donation-based pricing for the people I work with. No one who can't afford to pay should miss out on grief support.
Things I accept payment for and why:
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My time. Some people feel resourced enough to pay me for my time, where that is coaching calls, preparation for death, vigil-siting, or anything else. I trust that people who offer to pay me for my services can afford to do so, and are doing so out of their own generosity of spirit. I typically will not turn down offers of payment. But they are never expected.
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My zines. I make zines and art mostly to have a creative outlet, which I need to feel hopeful in this world. I print everything I make myself, and pay for all the paper and supplies, as well as a membership to the IPRC in Portland (check them out!) I sell some of my zines locally in stores, for whatever price covers the store's commission and my printing costs. I'm happy to send anyone my zines by mail, but it is nice when people cover the price of postage and printing :)
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Childcare during overnights. I love to hold vigil with dying people, and / or provide respite care for family members. I will always do this for free when I can, but I am also a parent, and sometimes need childcare coverage. I do accept donations to cover a babysitter, and while this is never a requirement, I will in this instance discuss the cost of an overnight for me.
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Gas and transportation. I currently live in Portland Oregon, but will travel within a 4 hour radius to provide services in person. I ask for a pay-what-you-can donation for travel. Most people contribute $10-$100, depending on the distance.
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Other kinds of donations I sometimes accept:
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COVID-19 supplies. I practice great caution when it comes to COVID. I do this for my clients, my family, my comrades, myself, and my greater community. I provide free rapid tests and masks to anyone I meet who needs one. So I always accept donations of rapid antigen tests, N95 Masks, and refills for PlusLife Nucleic Acid Amplification Tests (note these are hard to find in the US).
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Death Supplies. There is a lot that goes into helping people die, especially at home. I keep a stocked end-of-life go-bag, and here are some things I keep in it:
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Reusable ice packs​
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First aid supplies
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Cotton balls
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Towels and wash cloths
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Topical pain relief (epsom salt creme, arnica gel, tiger balm, heat pads, etc.)
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Super glue
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Shaving kit
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Handkerchiefs and scarves
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Chux pads
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Chapstick and lipstick
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Hairbrushes
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Small notebooks, pens
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Battery-operated tea lights
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Sewing kits
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Essential oils, incense
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Herbs and teas (ask me what kind!)
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Snacks and instant coffee (for the living who can forget to eat)
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Things I will not accept payment for:
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Introductions
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Text check ins​
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Anything related to children's grief or children's death
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Abortion care and support (unless childcare related)
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