Among the wonderful people and places I’ve discovered lately in San Antonio, few have touched my heart more than ABODE Contemplative Care for the Dying. This sweet home is located in a lovely residential neighborhood and staffed by professionals and volunteers who devote their days (and nights) caring for those facing the end of their lives.
ABODE is run by dynamo Executive Director Martha Jo Atkins, staff, volunteers and a terrific board of directors. They consider dying a spiritual experience, and they ensure that each of their guests is able to pass on with respect and dignity.
ABODE, and their many colleagues across the United States, are all members of Omega Home Network (OHN), a Tulsa-based association that promotes the development and expansion of homes like these. This year, it’s ABODE’s turn to host the OHN three-day conference.
I’m delighted that ABODE has hired me to produce a meaningful conference featuring experts in the field of death and dying – along with sessions on best practices for the homes, self-care for caregivers, end-of-life care ethics and new thoughts on storytelling that can help change the general fears and perceptions around the subject. The conference is set for June 24, 25 and 26 at the Marriott Rivercenter, right on the San Antonio’s beautiful River Walk. I’ll share updates on the speaker line up and registration details shortly.
The conference is open to everyone. If you’re interested in learning more or getting involved, please let me know. We’d be delighted to have you on board!
You’ll see lots of posts from me here and via social over the next several months. Please follow ABODE and Omega Home Network on Facebook, as well. They have so many stories to share – I know your heart will be touched, too.
Interested in creating a speakers series but don’t know where to start? Need an extra hand with outreach and promotion?