Reclaiming Legacy, Healing Grief and Honoring Life After Overdose or Suicide Loss
Losing a loved one to overdose or suicide can come with a unique kind of grief. There can be stigma surrounding how they died, and talking about them can sometimes leave us feeling judged, ashamed, or as though their life has been reduced to the way they left this world. Death Doula and Grief Coach, Ashely Buxenstein, creates a supportive, judgment-free space to help people navigate their grief alongside others who truly understand. Participants will have space to say their loved one’s name, share stories and memories, acknowledge the difficult parts of their grief, and talk freely about who their loved one was beyond their death. Throughout the program, participants will also create a Legacy Book using guided prompts, photos, keepsakes, and other meaningful items. This can be a journal, scrapbook, photo album, or whatever feels meaningful to them. The Legacy Book becomes a place to remember the things they loved, the memories they shared, their accomplishments, their personality, and all of the pieces that made them who they were. Participants can expect a space where they can feel less alone in a type of grief that can often feel isolating. Together, we will make room for the grief while also remembering and honoring the life behind the loss. Reclaiming Legacy is about making sure the way someone died does not become the only thing that defines how they are remembered. Please bring a bag lunch. Light snacks, coffee, and tea will be available. To learn more about Ashely and her giftedness for this work, please visit her website at https://www.celestial-legacy.com/
DATE: Saturday, January 23, 2027
TIME: 11:00 AM - 5:00 PM
COST: $65
LOCATION: Well for the Journey - 120 W. Seminary Ave, Lutherville-Timonium, MD 21093
REGISTRATION is required.
IMPORTANT: You will receive an email from programming@wellforthejourney.org at least 24 hours in advance of the start of your program. If you are unable to find the email, please check your SPAM or JUNK email folders. This email will include details to help you prepare for your program including any pertinent handouts, location information, and the ZOOM link for online programs. Please be sure you have received and read this email a minimum of 24 hours in advance of the start of the program. Thank you!
FACILITATOR: Ashely Buxenstein
FACILITATOR BIO: Ashely is a former Emergency Medical Technician turned death doula and grief coach whose passion for connection and helping others has carried throughout both careers. She believes there is no one-size-fits-all approach to grief, healing, or end-of-life experiences, and focuses on meeting people where they are with compassion and without judgment. Her goal is to create space for people to sit with their grief, feel supported, and know they don’t have to navigate it alone.