When you can’t control what’s happening, challenge yourself to control the way you respond to what’s happening.

That’s where your power is.

HELLO. I am Jennifer Tadjedin.

End of Life Doula, Portland, OR.

Finding your life’s work feels like winning no matter what stage or age in life you are.

Never - in all these years, have I felt as pulled to a calling as I feel with the mission of Heartwood. Life experiences and professional goals throughout the years lead me to feel most comfortable in the world of death and dying.

Personal loss as well as organized schooling has inspired me to guide and support others through their own imminent end-of-life or proactively planning for the eventuality of it.

Thinking about and planning for end-of-life is overwhelming. Our mission with The Heartwood Collective and Peace of Mind Planning is purposeful and empowering. No matter your needs, We can meet you where you are. Let us help you.

HELLO. I am Karen Callahan.

End of Life Doula, Portland, OR.

I’ve always been drawn to people’s stories. From my recent career in people development on HR teams, to my earlier career helping to build StoryCorps, I love learning about the paths and experiences that shape one’s life.

Death brings life into perspective. Losing a loved one, or just being aware of your mortality, can lead you to be more intentional about the choices you make. I lost both of my parents by the time I was 40, and that experience made me re-evaluate how I was spending my days, as well as how much we struggle – as a society – talking about and accepting death.

I completed my End-of-Life Doula training through The Peaceful Presence Project. Building Peace of Mind Planning with Jen has been the next step on my path, as it brings together all that I’ve learned through my own experience, the skills I’ve gained through my corporate work, and my love of exploring the human experience.

The Origin of the HEARTWOOD Name

We can learn a lot from the trees. They have figured out not only how to live - in fueling civilization - fire, photosynthesis - paper and communication, but also on how to die. The Heartwood is in fact the center of a tree.

By definition, heartwood is “the central, supporting pillar of the tree.

Although dead, it will not decay or loose strength while the outer layers are intact”. –US Dept. of Agriculture

Like our namesake - we aim to be that central, supporting pillar.

We are versed and at ease in having the sometimes difficult conversations about death and what that looks like and we give you the strength and insight to plan ahead.