SIUE to Host 33rd Annual Hospice Conference Nov. 12
Southern Illinois University Edwardsville is set to host the 33rd annual Hospice Conference of Southwestern Illinois Thursday, Nov. 12, in the Morris University Center Meridian Ballroom. KSDK-TV featured the conference and the soothing tranquility harp during its Show Me St. Louis segment on Tuesday, Nov. 3.
The Conference is for all walks of life: family members and friends of those in hospice, volunteers and staff of hospices, nursing homes, assisted living centers, home health organizations and anyone interested in the subject.
Keynote speaker Loretta Downs is a nationally recognized inspirational speaker, writer and advocate for creating sacred spaces for those at the end of life. The title of her keynote presentation is a quote from her dad, “Oh, Just Bury Me in the Backyard.” She uses humor and storytelling to illustrate how to support the end of life with understanding, dignity and compassion.
Four different workshops will be available throughout the afternoon. Among the presenters will be:
- Cheryl Singsank – an independent health educator, wellness coach and yoga instructor, who currently serves as the client services coordinator at Metro East home care agency BARBERVoss
- Dr. Ellen Middendorf – medical director for Hospice of Southern Illinois
- Pastor Jim Vargo – ministers to individuals in long-term care facilities weekly.
The conference focuses on five objectives:
- Learning to use positive terms and focus in discussing death
- Becoming updated on current hospice medications
- Becoming familiar with relaxation techniques for a variety of physical abilities
- Experiencing new tools to help patients and caregivers find peace
- Learning to reduce care partner fatigue
Registration begins at 8 a.m. with the program beginning at 9 a.m.
For professionals seeking five continuing education credits, registration cost is $70. For the general public, cost is $55. For students or hospice volunteers, cost is $40. Breakfast and lunch are provided.
Registration is available online at siue.edu/educationaloutreach/registration.shtml or by calling at 618-650-2164.
The event is sponsored by BJC Hospice of Alton, Unity Hospice of Collinsville, OSF Saint Anthony’s of Alton, Family Hospice of Belleville and Hospice of Southern Illinois.
Photo: Loretta Downs, keynote speaker at the 33rd annual Hospice Conference of Southwestern Illinois, hosted by SIUE.
