About Us

The Special Village was created as my capstone project for graduate school based on the lack of bereavement support and resources that were available. I observed and experienced a gap in support services for parents and educators that support children with special needs through grief and loss.

My middle son, Derek (pictured on the right), has overcome many obstacles in his life and he continues to inspire me. Derek's early years were filled with trials. He was born 2 months premature, had a developmental delay, didn't speak until he was 4 years old and when he finally began speaking, he had a stutter, and he has had challenges with his health. When Derek was 8 years old, our family was faced with the traumatic and untimely death of my 8 year old nephew, Alfredo (pictured on the left). My son lost his best friend and the one peer that treated him like he was “normal”. Derek was as "normal" as anyone, but he didn't feel that way around kids his age. What does "normal" really even mean? As a parent, I had to search for answers on how to help him face this traumatic loss, as well as how to help his teachers support him.

Through education and advocacy, I hope to increase community awareness and support for grieving children, as well as the adults that support them.

My name is Andrea and I am a retired Special Education teacher. I have taught general education, gifted education, and self-contained special education. I am a mother, bereaved aunt, child advocate, educator, life coach, and death doula. I created The Special Village as part of an advocacy project while attending graduate school at the University of Miami. I am committed to creating a safe and sacred space for meaningful reflection, emotional healing, conscious dying, and personal empowerment—honoring each person’s values, beliefs, and legacy. Through presence, active listening, and guidance, I aim to reduce fear, foster acceptance, and help clients find peace, purpose, and dignity in their journey.