When Doves Fly: How one dove changed our lives after my father's death

Special AFE Presentation, Advocate Anecdotes

Advocate Anecdotes are real stories from real people who have been through the thick of it when it comes to family caregiving. Their stories inspire us to do well, take our hardships one day at a time, and most importantly, they bring us together.

Because – no one should have to navigate the complicated world of eldercare alone and unsupported.

Jadia Ward’s Story

How one dove changed our lives after my father’s death

A few years back, I worked for Hampton Alzheimer’s facility as an art, music, and physical therapist assisting residents in the last two stages and helping families grieve their loss. In 2009, we lost 5 family members in less than a year. I know how deeply their loss hit me personally and it helped prepare me for helping others. I was so grateful for the little dove that landed at our back door to give me hope that my father and I will one day meet again beyond this life’s door.

My husband and I became non-denominational ordained ministers and the doves are our ministry now. Ninety percent of our dove releases performed are for End-of-Life services with an average of 1 out of every 3 days, and we sincerely know that the doves “lift hearts on wings” and we are most grateful for families’ grief to lift as they feel the softness of the spirit dove and its beating heart and witness the symbolic moment of their loved one onboard heaven bound.

Our doves are trained “white homing rock doves” and spend a year before they are brought into service. Our doves are always happy to return to their home in our loft. We do maintain an open loft so the doves are free to come and go and locked up at night for their protection. Each day they take their baths on the roof and raise their young just as any human family does.

Family releasing doves; Courtesy, Jadia Ward

We are now in our 12^th year with our doves and so lucky to be able to help families in all types of life milestones, but most of all, the End of Life services mean the most to us . . . all because dad’s spirit dove landed the next morning at our back door after his late night passing. I know that my dad’s spirit is still just a whisper away . . . and when I walk in the loft each time, the cooing of his winged messengers lets me know of his continued great love.