Mira was inspired to volunteer for Neighborhood Hospice after a dear friend passed away.  The friend had cancer, and Mira treated her regularly to yoga sessions and massage therapy.  After Mira’s friend died, the woman’s widower suggested that Mira continue such work because it had brought such happiness to his late wife. 

Mira grew up in Media, Pennsylvania, and worked as a legal secretary for thirty years.  She refers to her change in careers— from professional legal secretary to professional yoga instructor and massage therapist— as a “mid-life crisis.” 

She began practicing the Japanese healing art of reiki, and uses this work extensively at the Neighborhood Hospice, which is a non-profit organization designed to provide end-of-life care and bereavement support to individuals regardless of their ability to pay. 

Mira expertly rubs hands, feet and arms, and leads clients in soothing meditation sessions.  Often her hospice clients wish only to sit and talk.  Sometimes, if they like, she will take them outside to look at the vibrant colors of flowers.

At the Neighborhood Hospice, each client is given a menu with options.  If the client expresses an interest in massage, then they immediately are directed to Mira.  When she meets a client for the first time, she always requests permission to do massage, and gives a thorough explanation of what she will be doing. 

Mira says that it is a difficult process to befriend and develop relationships with those who are dying. The most rewarding part of her work is the pleasure that she brings to people.  “The rewards outweigh the minuses,” Mira said.  “Just to see them smile when I come in… I know I am making a difference.”