Support after a Sudden Death
When a loved one dies suddenly, you and your family may be reeling from shock, confusion, and heartbreak.
In those first raw hours and days, it’s completely natural to feel overwhelmed — emotionally, mentally, and practically. The suddenness of it all can leave you unsure of what to do next, especially if the Coroner’s Office becomes involved.
You are not expected to have it all figured out. You’re not meant to go through this alone.
Melanie provides calm, compassionate guidance in the midst of uncertainty. Whether you need help understanding what happens next, or simply someone to talk to who understands this space — she is here.
If reading this page feels too hard right now, please call Melanie directly on 0406 622 091 for a quick, complimentary chat. You don’t need to know what to say — just reach out, and she’ll gently guide you from there.
Photo courtesy of Morgane Le Breton
You don’t have to do everything today
In the immediate aftermath of a sudden death, the most important thing to know is: you don’t need to rush. Many decisions can be delayed.
There is time to sit. To breathe. To feel.
You are allowed to pause. You don’t need to have all the answers right now.
Melanie gently reminds families:
“This can all be slowed down.”
“You don’t need to do anything today.”
“Take the time you need — one moment at a time.”
Support is available, and you don’t have to navigate this alone.
Practical Doula support for sudden death
Melanie provides immediate, calm and compassionate support for families and communities experiencing sudden loss. With warmth, presence and experience, she listens deeply - to your pain, grief, needs and wishes - and helps you move forward one step at a time. Melanie can support you in navigating both the emotional and practical aspects of a sudden death, including:
Core services offered:
Liaising with the Coroner’s Court (if involved)
Helping with funeral arrangements and options
Recommending and liaising with Funeral Directors
Acting as a “first point of contact” — managing phone calls so you don’t have to
Advocating for you with professionals and loved ones, ensuring your wishes are honoured
Offering ideas and support for goodbyes and memory-making, such as:
Decorating a coffin, casket or shroud
Writing letters to accompany your loved one
Creating a memory box
Requesting fingerprints for jewellery keepsakes
Additional support services
Melanie also provides:
Advice on grief support services in your area
Administrative help during the first few days
Guidance around sharing daily tasks
Community care coordination
Resource and information research
A clear explanation of your choices — every step of the way
Calm, objective presence with heartfelt compassion
Access to a substitute doula if she is ever unavailable
Please note: As a Doula, Melanie can support you through many aspects of your journey. However, Melanie is not a grief counsellor. If you need specialised support for grief, she can refer you to qualified grief professionals.
Photo courtesy of Nicola Abrescia
Photo courtesy of Neil Thomas.
Memorial Service support
Melanie can help plan and coordinate a memorial service - sometimes called a vigil or a wake - where family and community can spend time remembering and honouring their loved one.
These moments can happen at home, in a community space, at a funeral home, or any meaningful location. Depending on the circumstances, the loved one’s body may or may not be present.