Community Palliative Care Nurse Michelle Wilcox is urging everyone to attend a forum at Kempsey that will open the doors to having a conversation with family about end-of-life issues, including the importance of an Advanced Care Directive.
Learn how to have ‘that’ conversation with family
May 16, 2023In the event you could no longer speak for yourself, who would you like to speak for you?
This question, and many others, will be discussed at a very special forum on end-of-life issues, to be held in Kempsey next week.
The forum is free, and presented by Kempsey’s Lilli Pilli Ladies, a group of women who fundraise and advocate for cancer and palliative care services.
With the End in Mind will be held at Kempsey Macleay RSL Club, an event sponsor, from 2pm to 4pm on Saturday 20 May.
Community Palliative Care Nurse Michelle Wilcox said people tend to shy away from the topic.
“We have to make it a conversation we are comfortable with,” Ms Wilcox said.
“We really need to end the stigma and improve communication around end-of-life in everyday conversations,” Ms Wilcox said.
Topics for discussion will include planning a Will and nominating a Power of Attorney and Enduring Guardian.
“Other topics include completing an Advanced Care Directive, encouraging open discussions with family members and carers about your wishes, such as where you want to be cared for at End of Life, who will care for you, the role of the Palliative Care Team and what services are available for someone at End of Life,” Ms Wilcox said.
“This relaxed, free event will be an afternoon get-together that celebrates the cycle of life, including the transition to death. It will help make this a conversation we are comfortable to have with our loved ones.”
