2015 AHPCA Roadshow Wrap Up
“Two paper leaves – one green, the other a warm autumn orange. On the green leaf, I write a quality of my father who has died. On the orange leaf, I write a few of the many things that I miss about him. And so I learn about using ritual to grieve, and becoming compassionate with myself and other grievers.” 2015 Roadshow Participant
The leaves went on the “Memory Tree” at one of the 2015 AHPCA Roadshow workshops, “The Final Journey: Becoming a Compassionate Companion.” Expertly facilitated by Blair Collins and Denise Renschler, the activity was one of the favourite experiences for the participants at this year’s workshop. The audience reviews of the presenters endorsed the obvious dedication and passion in Blair and Denise’s presentation.
“Denise creates a safe and inviting environment in which to explore the layers of grief and death.” 2015 Roadshow participant
“Blair is amazing! Dynamic, engaging, humorous, insightful, and totally enjoyable to listen and learn from!” 2015 Roadshow participant
“I will always remember Blair’s phrase ‘Nobody cares how much you know until they know how much you care.’” 2015 Roadshow participant
“I needed to be refreshed in the self-care basics. Loved the ‘hands-on’ activities of self-reflection and the memory tree.” 2015 Roadshow Participant
Roadshow Participants
The 2015 Roadshow traveled the province reaching more Albertans than ever before. Equipped with new information about compassion, grief, rituals, and self-care, over 300 Roadshow participants returned to their communities where they’re now sharing their new knowledge with patients, families, and colleagues.
”I have been to quite a few workshop on similar topics. This workshop is the very best I have attended.” 2015 Roadshow participant
“Totally enjoyed the day and leave with an increased understanding of end of life care.” 2015 Roadshow participant
“An honest, warm and inclusive day; informative and also good for the spirit.” 2015 Roadshow participant
Roadshow participants are an exceptional group of people who are passionate about hospice palliative care. They bring their collective experience, wisdom, and empathy to the workshops where their willingness to share personal and professional stories is heartwarming and generous.
“Through another person’s story I was able to release my guilt for not attending my grandfather’s funeral when I was a teen…thank you.” 2015 Roadshow participant
“Loved the discussion on compassionate companioning. Nice to hear about others’ struggles and shared suggestions.” 2015 Roadshow participant
“Great to share with others on breaks and learn from them as well.” 2015 Roadshow participant
Roadshow Hosts
AHPCA applauds the commitment and hard work of our 2015 Roadshow hosts: the Foothills Country Hospice Society in Okotoks, the Drumheller Palliative Care Committee, the Light up Your Life Tri-Community Palliative/Hospice Care Society in Stony Plain, and the Bonnyville Palliative Care Committee. From providing spectacular views of the foothills, to sponsoring community volunteers, and extending warm welcomes to their guests, our hosts were vital to the success of each workshop.
“I appreciated the ‘special touches’ by the host, such as tissues and treats on the tables, and the thoughtful door prizes.” 2015 Roadshow participant
The Roadshow depends on support and promotion by the local communities, our AHPCA members, and others, including our board members, Donna Wilson and Leslie Penny, who shared the AHPCA vision on CTV News at Noon Edmonton .
“The Roadshows are so valuable. Within this workshop alone, I have heard there are two communities wanting to do a Roadshow in their own community.” 2015 Roadshow participant
Even as AHPCA wraps up this year’s successful Roadshow, we’re excited to announce our confirmed locations for 2016: beautiful Banff/Canmore, centrally located Red Deer, and Grande Prairie in the north. Stay tuned to our website, Facebook page, and Twitter for more news.
Thanks to everyone who helped make the AHPCA 2015 Roadshow “The Final Journey: Becoming a Compassionate Companion” a life-changing success!
“I’m so glad I joined AHPCA!” 2015 Okotoks Roadshow Participant
