Meet Ellen Matzdorf, a midwife and mortician who finds unity in life's most profound moments — birth and death. Based in Oldenburg, Lower Saxony, Ellen's career may seem contradictory at first glance, but she views it as a natural progression.
Ellen's journey began after the birth of her daughter, leading her to reevaluate her purpose and pursue a career as a midwife. Throughout her 30-plus years of practice, she has attended countless births in hospitals, birthing centers, and homes. She believes that women should have the opportunity to be cared for primarily by midwives during pregnancy, limiting the need for high-tech obstetric medicine except in critical situations.
Her advocacy for self-determination and natural birth led her to recognize a need for a different approach when facing loss. "There is no choice about death," Ellen writes. She began to accompany families during this challenging time as a funeral director, providing them with the supportive environment they needed to grieve and process the loss of their loved ones.
Ellen's unique blend of professions has not only gained her recognition in her local community but also international interest. She has found that the similarities between the beginning and end of life are universal, transcending cultural boundaries.
When accompanying a family through a loss, Ellen is careful not to rush the grieving process. Sometimes, women may initially hesitate to spend time with their stillborn child. By keeping the door open, she gives them the opportunity to reconsider and ultimately find the closure they need.
Ellen has proven that it is possible to excel in both midwifery and funeral services. She drives her iconic blue hearse to attend births and provide post-delivery care. Some pregnant women even visit her funeral home for preventive care. Her compassionate approach and unwavering advocacy for self-determination have earned her countless praises and showcased the profound connection between birth and death.
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