A Conference Connecting Hospice Palliative Care Communities in Alberta

AHPCA welcomed 40 participants representing 22 hospice palliative care organizations from around Alberta, to Leduc on Saturday November 18. Invited attendees gathered to learn about palliative care issues, share developments from their communities, and connect with each other.

“[A highlight was the] effort by the Board to meet people in attendance; very welcoming atmosphere.”
– Imagine 2017 attendee

Justin Riemer, Assistant Deputy Minister in the Innovation and Strategic Operations Division of Alberta Health, opened Imagine 2017 on behalf of the Alberta government.

Imagine 2017 examined the idea of compassionate communities in hospice palliative care. We began the morning with an informative presentation by Dr. Martin Labrie on the concept of compassionate communities. What are compassionate communities and how do we create them? You can gain an overview by viewing Bill’s Story.

“Martin’s presentation was very timely and appropriate for the current landscape of decreasing funds and the need for increasing community engagement. Good choice!”
– Imagine 2017 attendee

Attendees then had a chance to ask questions and discuss these ideas during a panel discussion. Dr. Martin Tweeddale, Dr. Joni McNeely, Bev Berg, and Dr. Kyle Whitfield led the conversation that centered around the idea that hospice palliative care is more than just bricks and mortar.

In the afternoon, a representative from each community hospice group in attendance gave an update on their community activities and ideas over the past year. This was an opportunity for attendees to meet face-to-face and gain inspiration and mentorship from groups from around Alberta.

“Thank you for providing us an opportunity to network and hear of all the positive initiatives!”
– Imagine 2017 attendee

The subsequent group workshop gave all attendees a chance to brainstorm ideas to build compassionate communities back home. Participants made important connections, gathered ideas, and left the conference inspired to share with their local groups and societies.

“Absolutely loved the group workshop, would have appreciated more time to converse. Great topic. I am inspired!”
– Imagine 2017 attendee

At the end of Imagine 2017, the inaugural Dr. Donna Wilson Caregiver Award was given to Sandra Fewings, accepted by Elaine Munce of Hospice Calgary on behalf of Sandra.

It was a powerful day of learning and sharing, strengthening community connections and by doing so, strengthening Alberta’s hospice palliative care system.

AHPCA extends its gratitude to the Eldon and Anne Foote Fund at Edmonton Community Foundation, without whose generosity it would not have been possible to hold this event.

See you at Imagine 2018!