The Zen Den on Main

April Dawn Willard was born on October 3, 1978, in Central Florida. After earning her nursing degree, she moved to New York City, where she began her career in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) at Columbia Presbyterian Medical Center. During her seven years in New York, she met her future husband, and together they relocated to Berkeley, California so April could pursue her Master’s degree in Nursing at UCSF. Following her graduation, April worked as a Nurse Practitioner in California for three years before deciding to return to the East Coast with her husband. She has been practicing as an NP at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) ever since—a role she continues to hold with deep commitment. While life was on a promising path, 2022 brought profound personal loss. April’s mother, who had recently moved to New Jersey to be closer to her, became suddenly and critically ill and passed away in January 2022. Just one month later, April’s father died by suicide. The emotional impact of losing both parents in such a short time was devastating and life-altering. Struggling with grief and searching for grounding, April found herself at The Center for Living. A spontaneous reading led to a deep connection with the space, and she began volunteering in the small consignment store once housed there. Eventually, she took over the shop, rebranded it, and started what is now known as The Zen Den on Main. The Zen Den became more than a store—it became a space of healing and purpose. For April, it was a lifeline during one of the darkest times of her life. The mission of the Zen Den is rooted in inclusivity, warmth, and connection. Every person who walks through the door is seen as someone special and treated with kindness and respect. April’s personal philosophy is centered on the belief that, just as she once walked into The Center in search of something greater, others might find their way to the Zen Den at a critical moment in their own journey—and she wants them to feel embraced and supported. April is a devoted dog lover, creative spirit, and passionate music enthusiast who has created a space for others to heal, reflect, and grow in the Zen Den. As a certified Reiki practitioner and ordained minister, she brings a holistic, heart-centered approach to the services she offers. Her work includes "letting go" ceremonies, holistic life coaching, sound healing, art therapy, and specialized support for individuals navigating the emotional and logistical challenges of caring for a loved one—whether at home or in the hospital. With deep compassion and lived experience, April helps families make sense of a complex and often overwhelming medical system, providing guidance, clarity, and coordination when it’s needed most. Whether you're seeking emotional grounding, spiritual connection, or practical support, April offers a safe and supportive space to move forward with confidence and care.