See ‘Being Mortal’ film at hospital

TORRINGTON » Charlotte Hungerford Hospital, Visiting Nurse Services of Connecticut, and VNA Northwest have been selected by the Hospice Foundation of America (HFA) to present a community screening of “Being Mortal”. The PBS Frontline film addresses mortality to inform and educate caregivers, community leaders and the general public. The film and discussion will be held on Tuesday, June 13, from 4:30 to 6:30 PM, in the Charlotte Hungerford Hospital Memorial Building Conference Hall, 540 Litchfield Street, Torrington.

“Being Mortal” features Dr. Atul Gawande and is based on his bestselling book by the same name. As a renowned surgeon and writer for the New Yorker publication, Dr. Gawande brings his personal journey and those of his patients and families to the fore. He explores the relationships doctors have with patients who are nearing the end of life and investigates the practice of caring for the dying, and shows how doctors, himself included, are often remarkably uncomfortable talking about chronic illness and death with their patients. His message is a considerate challenge to everyone to examine our mortality as he encourages all to prepare for our future needs in accordance with our beliefs and personal preferences.

This is intended to encourage meaningful and comfortable discussions with those we love so that our wishes are known and respected. The information offered at this presentation will be of invaluable assistance in purposeful planning. “Our ultimate goal, after all, is not a good death but a good life to the very end.” Atul Gawande, Being Mortal: Medicine and What Matters in the End

The presentation is one hour in length and will be followed immediately by a discussion and Q&A period for those in attendance, facilitated by a panel that includes an elder law attorney, a physician, a care manager, a hospice nurse, and a clergy member. Light refreshments will be provided.

For more information or to R.S.V.P. call 860-496-6543 or e-mail jarens@hungerford.org