Thinking about our own death or that of someone important to you can be overwhelming. But like anything in life, having a plan can help us feel grounded and prepared. In this session, participants will be gently supported in contemplating and answering important end-of-life questions, including:
· What do I want the people important to me to know about my end of life?
· With whom do I want to discuss these important matters?
· What kind of medical interventions do I want and not want?
· Who would I like to make healthcare decisions for me in the event that I am unable to?
· What would I like to happen to my body after I die?
Participants will leave with a plan for having a conversation that matters, and with the experience of meaningful reflection.
Upcoming Presentations on Positive Death and Dying:
Vigil Planning: Thursday, April 25, 2-4 pm
End of Life Planning for Elder Orphans, Thursday, May 16, 2-4 pm
Both in the MacColl Room, First Presbyteriam Church in Philadelphia
Russ Alexander serves as a chaplain with the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania (HUP), which has given him a perspective on the experience patients and their families have in an acute care setting, before they decide to go onto hospice service. While spending time in the hospital, particularly in intensive care, he noticed that many people are full of a terrible fear. Russ became interested in a paradigm shift in our culture’s thinking about death and dying and became a death doula. At Sunset Companions, he helps people think about death and dying differently, through education and planning, best while people are still healthy.
Annie Wilson is a death doula, and an experimental choreographer and performer based in Philadelphia. She sees her role as serving folks who are: planning for their end of life and funeral, seeking ritual support during active dying, and grieving a loss (death or otherwise). She is an INELDA-trained death doula since 2020.
Home Instead provides non-medical health care to help people age in place safely while maintaining dignity and independence. Their local office has been serving Philadelphia for 20 years and can offer assistance with personal care, appointments, light housekeeping, laundry, shopping, and companionship.