Through Their Eyes: Finding Joy in Final Transitions W/ Darnell Lamont Walker
A life cycle facilitator's viewpoint is informed by the families we serve, the care teams we interact with, and the larger dynamics of our sociopolitical climate. Deeply Rooted is a platform for life cycle facilitators at the beginning and end of life from around the world to share experiences, “Through Their Eyes”.
Darnell Lamont Walker (he/him) is a death doula and writer, a bridge guiding individuals and communities through grief, toward healing, meaning, and whatever joy remains. Also an Emmy-nominated children’s television writer (Work It Out Wombats!, Karma’s World, Blue’s Clues & You), he believes storytelling—whether for children or those facing life’s hardest transitions—is a path to connection, safety, and belonging. His upcoming book, Never Can Say Goodbye (Harper One), explores his experiences as a death doula, offering insight into loss, love, and the ways we find our way forward. Through words and witness, he helps others honor their stories, navigate the in-between, and embrace what comes next.
Looking for resources to navigate grief in community? Check out these recommendations from Darnell:
Got Grief House: Co-founded by Julie Weatherhead, Ms. Blue Jackson, and Simon Anton, Got Grief House to support Detroit area children, teens, and adults experiencing grief with the assistance of trauma-informed grief counselors and peer support. GG’s House regularly offers online and in person adult grief groups, family outings, and youth programming.
Hello, I'm Grieving: Dr. Julie Shaw, founder of Hello, I’m Grieving is a certified grief educator, grief coach, group facilitator, speaker and experienced griever. Hello, I’m Grieving was born after the loss of her older sister Jennifer and now provides group and corporate workshops, speaking engagements, and community events such as Grief Hikes & Nature Meet Ups in Los Angeles.
Follow @hello.darnell on IG or connect more with Darnell here.
