Being Mortal: A Community Event to Help us Better Deal with Death

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Death is something we will all someday face. So why is it such a hard thing to discuss? How can the medical profession better help people navigate the final chapters of their lives with confidence, compassion, and direction? Renowned surgeon and New York writer Atul Gawande explores these questions in his book, Being Mortal. Now, he is bringing his personal journey along with stories of his patients and their families to better help us understand the end of a loved one’s life. Join us for a showing of the film, Being Mortal and a chance to reexamine how we think about death and dying at two free community events in April.

Being Mortal is a short film about end of life decisions made by an individual and their family. There will be two free showings of this film that will include a panel discussion, a chance to talk with end of life professionals, an opportunity to speak with a hospice physician, small group discussions, and grief and bereavement support. There will be light refreshments served as well.

“Many times we just wait until it is too late to have a discussion with our families about our desires at the end of our life’s journey,” says Charlotte Haisch, director of Dignity Health Home Health and Hospice. “This film and discussion with some of our end-of-life professionals will help people explore ways to be more comfortable sharing their goals and desires regarding end of life with their loved ones.”

The first event will be held April 5th at Shasta Senior Nutrition Program, located at 100 Mercy Oaks Drive in Redding from 6-8pm. The second showing of the film will be held April 19th at the St. Elizabeth Community Hospital Columba Room in the Coyne Center. The address for this location is 2550 Sister Mary Columba Drive, Red Bluff and the event will also be held from 6-8pm. Space will be limited, so please call (530)245-4070 to register for this free event.

For more information, check out the event page which can be found at facebook.com/DignityHealthinNorthState

Press Release

-from press release