Hospice of Waterloo Region presents the 3rd session of its Fall series . After exploring the role of a Substitute Decision Maker in different health care settings, this session is designed as an interactive discussion led by our ACP Ambassador team. Together we will talk about the conversations that you need to be having with your Substitute Decision Maker. What is there to talk about – You and Your SDM” will focus on the questions everyone wants answers to : what do I need to share with my SDM in order to prepare them ? What is most important to me, what do I value that could guide someone else to make decisions on my behalf? How do I want to be cared for in the event I cannot decide for myself? We look forward to this very interactive session and encourage you to bring along your SDM as the greatest gift is in the conversation that you share with each other!

Hospice of Waterloo Region - ACP Ambassador team/ Session Facilitators

Patti Haskell had an extensive career in education, and retired as the director of Education for the Waterloo Region District School Board. She has also led many leadership and mentoring programs while also serving on numerous boards. She spends much of her time in retirement volunteering for a number of local organizations, including Hospice Waterloo Region.

“Having lost friends and family members, who experienced exceptional care and loving support through hospice locations across Ontario, I want to give back in appreciation for the support my loved ones have received. I would like others to realize that they are not alone and that Hospice can support them on their journey.”

Wanda Manning is a trained registered nurse, who has dedicated her life to supporting people of all ages at crucial times in their life journey. She has also worked as an educator for those entering the health care profession, and is an active local volunteer.

“I want to share the experiences, knowledge, and information I have gained, and I want to be part of the process of bringing death out of the closet and into everyday life. My hope is that the presentation will provide a framework for participants to explore their ideas about dying in a supportive and factual environment.”

Susan Martin is a business leader with extensive experience in marketing, organizational development, leadership, team building and health management. She also has a passion for giving back to the community, and is an active volunteer with several local organizations.

“Hospice Waterloo Region provides a wide variety of programs, which has made volunteering there over many years a rich and growth-producing experience — and the people there are truly committed to the hospice philosophy.”

Deborah Snider has 40 years of experience in nursing, providing care to moms, babies and children. She also spent much of her career in health-care management. Today, she is a passionate volunteer with Hospice Waterloo Region and her church.

“Hospice Waterloo Region is an amazing resource in this community, which not enough people are aware of. I hope that people who attend my presentation take away a little bit of bravery, and a willingness to have those crucial conversations about end-of-life care! I also want them to know that this journey does not need to be faced alone.”

Lynn Weimer has four decades of experience as a registered nurse, the majority of that time in the intensive-care units. Today, she enjoys volunteering with Hospice Waterloo Region, as well as travelling and working in her gardens.

“I have met so many families in my years of working with critically ill patients who had never discussed advance care planning. It was tragic to watch them go through the decision-making process without previous guidance regarding their loved one’s wishes. I hope the participants will discuss their wishes with the important people in their lives.”

Dana Currie has more than 30 years of experience teaching for a variety of ages and interests. She is also a passionate volunteer, offering up her time to several local organizations including Hospice Waterloo Region.

“I believe that hospice is an integral part of the community and I want to share the many things offered by this organization. I also want community members to understand the importance of advance care planning and feel comfortable with having conversations with loved ones regarding last wishes