Navigating Life's Final Chapter with Dignity and Peace

Melissa Graziano

I graduated from the University of Connecticut School of Nursing.  My professional experience as a nurse and my personal experience after a life altering injury taught me to channel my own grief and loss into resilience and strength. I have experienced navigating our complex health care system from both sides. 

As I have witnessed and supported family members and friends I became more aware of the overwhelming demands placed on not only the sick person but their loved ones as well. As our loved ones age and decline we want to be present for them as they have been for us. 

A lifelong friend and I became involved in offering support to a friend that had ALS. That is when we realized we had found our calling. 

It is an honor to be present and offer comfort to those entering the final phase of life, as well as support their loved ones.

I am a nurse, Certified End of Life Doula/Guide, a Hospice volunteer, an advocate, and educator. I am also a chronic pain warrior and practice meditation and yoga.

I am a Mom to two beautiful daughters and two Golden Retrievers . I love to travel, read, nature walks with my Golden boys, and time at the beach. 

Our Vision

A chronic or terminal diagnosis brings overwhelming medical decisions, emotional turbulence and family stress. 

At Transitioning Peacefully,  we offer a complete circle of support, to bridge the gaps that exist in our medical system. We act as your medical advocate to navigate the healthcare system, your end of life companion to bring comfort to the present, and your grief guide to support you and your loved ones.

We honor each person's unique path by meeting each individual and family exactly where they are in their journey - with compassion, respect, and unwavering support. 

Having meaningful conversations about each individual's values, goals, and preferences for medical care decisions provide peace of mind. Transitioning Peacefully will help you communicate and document your final wishes. Advanced planning also removes the burden some loved ones can be forced to take on in a crisis. The focus can then be placed on preserving one's dignity and making the most of one's quality of life.

We are here to relieve some of the overwhelming demands placed not only on caregivers but also the healthcare team. 

We hope to empower our clients and their loved ones to consider their last years, months, and days thoughtfully.

Michelle Lambert

My nursing career began over thirty years ago after I graduated from the state of Connecticut Vocational program in 1992. I learned the art of nursing in my early years providing care for the geriatric population and their loved ones. Those formative years taught me a lot, helped polish my nursing skills, and provided a solid foundation for my next venture. I then began a twenty year career working for the state of Connecticut Department of Corrections as nurse and case manager. This interdisciplinary role further developed my proficiency as an advocate and educator. 

I have now retired from the department of corrections and have returned to my roots working in an assisted care facility. A recent experience caring for a family friend who had ALS raised an awareness as I witnessed his journey. I witnessed the beauty that knowledge, preparation, and love can provide and am honored to offer that  to others.

I am a Certified End of Life Doula/Guide, an advocate, a voice, and an educator. I have a son. I love to travel, sit on the beach with a book, and spend time with friends.