Indomitable spirit. That is what comes to mind when I think of Donna. Her energy is contagious. Instilled with a strong sense of integrity, Donna empowers others through her positive outlook. Without the spoken word, she imparts an expectation of only the best from herself and those whose lives she touches. I await with baited breath the next chapter from this prolific contributor to the good in our world.

Donna's story will encourage and inspire you to embrace life. She demonstrates how to graciously act upon opportunities, be open to new possibilities, and courageously lead yourself in a sometimes uncertain world. Every interaction, whether it's listening to her talk or reading something she wrote, I learn something from her.

I have known Donna Mathiowetz for over 3 decades, so it was my pleasure to host her recent Book Launch & Reception event at The Wise Family Funeral & Cremation Services building. I have come to realize after years of service in the funeral business, that adding value to and caring about the living while still honoring the legacy and memory of their loved ones is so incredibly important. One of the ways we can do that is through connecting those we serve and our community with the resources and support they need.

Our community has been blessed by the mission, message and ministry that Donna and her family have developed. She is involved in grief support groups, sharing her story and by giving back to her community and the people she meets. Donna’s presentation on The Skillset of Grief was, hands-down, an incredible event. Donna provided helpful tips, shared her own grief journey, connected well with the audience, and provided attendees with support resources, including her new book, A Journal for Your Journey.

It was my privilege to purchase 100 books from Donna to handout to each person who attended the event and I plan to use the book in the future for those we serve. Donna’s real, raw, authentic and honest perspective, along with her compassionate heart touches each person she meets. Donna truly does help others “grieve well” and her presentation positively impacted the hearts of each person in attendance. We all left better equipped to help ourselves or those around us in navigating our grief journeys.

Donna Mathiowetz has the tremendous ability to share her story, resonating with audiences by providing practical and sound suggestions on how they, too, can move forward through their grief and not only live but thrive after loss. She meets her audience at a place of empathy and understanding, having worked diligently throughout her grief journey to ensure the choices she’s made since her son’s deaths are impactful and meaningful. She is warm, caring, approachable and real. Most importantly, she provides her listeners with hope for their own journey.