Death and Dying: Conversations on End-of-Life Matters Series is Nov. 1-6
Join the Library and community partners to put aside the taboo of talking about death, and attend a thoughtful series, Death & Dying: Conversations on End-of-Life Matters Nov. 1-6.
After starting some important conversations during our first Death & Dying series in 2016, we’re continuing the discussion with topics on end-of-life legal matters, hospice, advance care planning, grief and death customs around the world, including special events to celebrate Día de los Muertos and starting with the return of the popular mortician/YouTube personality, Caitlin Doughty.
Here’s the linup:
"From Here to Eternity" Conversations About Death with Caitlin Doughty
Thursday, November 1, 7 p.m. at Relics Event Center, 2015 W. Battlefield Road. Back by popular demand, author and Los Angeles-based mortician Caitlin Doughty returns to Springfield to talk about her new book, “From Here to Eternity: Traveling the World to Find the Good Death.” Learn about death customs from around the world from the star of the popular YouTube series “Ask a Mortician” and founder of The Order of the Good Death, as she continues her mission to get people thinking and talking about death. A Q&A will follow the presentation. Books will be available for purchase and signing.
Family Movie Night at the Library
Friday, November 2, 6:30 p.m. for all ages in the Library Center auditorium. Celebrate the Day of the Dead with "Coco," rated PG, on the big screen and crafts.
End-of-Life Legal Matters
Saturday, November 3, 10 a.m.-noon in Library Center meeting rooms A & B. Join the attorneys of Ozarks Elder Law for a presentation on end-of-life legal matters and trust and estate planning basics. Discover why estate planning should be a priority for any individual over 18. Develop your understanding of key end-of-life legal documents, including living wills, and learn techniques to avoid probate and the importance of durable powers of attorney.
Hospice Resource Fair
Saturday, November 3, 11 a.m.-2 p.m. in the Library Center concourse. What is hospice care? How can my loved one benefit from hospice? Learn the answers to these questions and others you may have during this opportunity to gather information and visit with representatives from area hospice organizations.
Día de los Muertos Community Celebration
Saturday, November 3, 1-3 p.m. for all ages in the Library Center auditorium. Día de los Muertos, the Day of the Dead, is a Mexican holiday observed Oct. 31-Nov. 2, when family and friends gather to remember and celebrate their loved ones who have died. Join Grupo Latinoamericano and the Library to learn about the traditions and celebrate the Day of Dead with dances, altars (ofrendas) and pan de muerto (bread of dead), hot chocolate, crafts and Catrinas face painting.
Death Cafe
Sunday, November 4, 2-4 p.m. in the Library Center auditorium. Having open, honest discussions about death and dying can help alleviate our fears, make educated decisions and remind us to live life to the fullest. Join us for casual conversations about death where you are welcome to share your curiosities, hopes, fears and experiences in a safe, judgment-free environment. Refreshments will be provided.
Advance Care Planning Workshop
Monday, November 5, 1:30 p.m. in the Library Station Frisco Room. If a sudden illness or injury left you unable to speak for yourself, who would you want to speak for you? Join Respecting Choices of the Ozarks facilitators for a conversation about advance care planning that will help you reflect on your values, choose a health care agent, take the first steps toward completing an advance directive and make your wishes known.
Coping with the Holidays and Grief
Tuesday, November 6, 6:30-8 p.m. in Library Center meeting rooms A & B. The holiday season can be difficult for those grieving the death of a loved one. Lost & Found Grief Center staff members Dr. Karen Scott and Jeanene Gerhardt will explore common grief responses, holiday grief triggers and strategies for getting through the holidays, including ways to adjust traditions to reduce physical and emotional demands, and ideas to honor the memory of the deceased. Participants can make a commemorative ornament to take home. Seating is limited; materials will be provided. Registration starts October 23; call 616-0566.
Visit with others about Caitlin Doughty’s book, “From Here to Eternity,” before her November 1 presentation at these book discussions:
- Northview Center Book Discussion: Friday, October 12, 10:30 a.m. at the Northview Center, 301 E. Talmage St. Join us for this library-sponsored book group just for seniors.
- Book Discussion: Wednesday, October 10, 1-2:30 p.m. in Library Center meeting room B.
Funding for this series was provided by a grant from the Hospice Foundation of the Ozarks.
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