Next Date TBD

An experiential conversation for individuals, couples and those interested in examining the mystery of death and dying

Our culture in many ways is ill prepared to deal with the present complexities of death and dying. Consequently we are often left feeling without support to explore these important issues.

The Workshop
This facilitated conversations and intimate discussion exploring our own personal beliefs and decisions around end of life issues. Through many pan-cultural ways and practices we will look at the overarching issues of living and dying, the questions that arise around those nearing death, as well as exploring the presence of death throughout the lifespan. The workshop will help us to fully embrace living and give us skills to be of greater assistance to ourselves and others who are dying symbolically or literally. Some of the topics may include:

• Exploring your personal mythology, beliefs & concepts of death
• Working with difficult feelings, emotions and resistance
• Defining dignity in death
• Examining pan-cultural concepts of death
• Looking at myriad choices we may face

The way through dilemmas involves learning to tap into the compelling voice of the mysterious. Despite the insecurity of contemplating dying, we will find ways to embrace the unknown. Seen this way, obstacles can create a passage between the old and new ways of being.

Workshop Facilitators
Ron Hoffman co-founded Compassionate Care ALS in 1998 and has served as Executive Director ever since. As such he deals regularly with end of life care, including needs evaluation and instruction on ALS disease progression. He facilitates and guides intimate discussions with ALS patients and their families who are nearing death or actively dying around the process of death and dying and the questions that arise, helps them examine their choices, and creates space for dialogue around their beliefs and decisions.

Julie Yau holds a BA in human behavior and an MA in spiritual psychology. For over fifteen years Julie has been studying and teaching in the field of body, mind, and soul. She studied with Roshi Joan Halifax in the Compassionate Care of the Dying Programs for professionals.  She coordinates closely with hospital staff, care givers, and chronically ill patients. Julie developed the Cultivating Compassion Education Series for CCALS and offers meditation and contemplative work to those with ALS and their caregivers. She also supports those on the ALS journey through her ongoing psychotherapeutic practice that incorporates her knowledge of somatic psychology and contemplative awareness.