Why wait?
It always seems too early. . .until it’s too late!
National Advance Care Planning Day, Saturday, April 16, is the perfect time to join the discussion on the importance of having conversations with your loved ones about the medical care you would want if you were ever unable to speak for yourself.
Join us from 2-4 p.m. at the Stan Hagen Theatre at North Island College for a matinée showing and panel discussion of the PBS Frontline video Being Mortal, based on surgeon and best-selling author Dr. Atul Gawande’s book of the same title.
Being Mortal shows that the ultimate goal is not a good death but a good life—all the way to the very end. Gawande examines its ultimate limitations and failures as life draws to a close – and he discovers how we can do better.
Why is this so important?
Research has shown that advance care planning significantly reduces stress, depression and anxiety in family members and caregivers who know your wishes and can act with confidence on your behalf. Imagine how stressful if could be for your loved ones to make these decisions without being sure about what you would want. Research also tells us that approximately 50 per cent of us will be unable to convey our wishes as death approaches.
“Regardless of our age, the predictability of life and death is out of our control—but we do have a choice on how we prepare,” notes Lynn Brandon, President of the Comox Valley Hospice Society.
At the conclusion of the film, a panel will offer a variety of perspectives on the importance of advance care planning and answer your questions. And, when you’re ready to get started, free community workshops provided by the Comox Valley Hospice Society are available. A wealth of great information including workbooks, videos, sample advance care plans and workshop times/locations is also available at www.AdvanceCarePlanningCV.ca
It’s time to start talking so take the first step by joining the conversation on National Advance Care Planning Day, Saturday, April 16.
The Comox Valley Hospice Society would like to acknowledge the support of the Comox Valley Community Foundation, North Island College, Berwick Comox Valley and the Sovereign Order of St. John of Jerusalem. For more information call 250-339-5533.