SPRING LUNCH & LEARN WEBINAR SERIES
Join us for our biannual Lunch and Learn Series, hosted by BCHPCA for both members and the public, covering a wide array of topics. For this Spring season, our series focuses on “Palliative Care Awareness: Bringing Hospice and Palliative Care to Home and Community.”
Mark your calendars for March 18th, 19th, and 20th, where you can participate virtually from 11:30 am to 12:30 pm (PST). Additionally, don’t miss our special in-person Panel Discussion on March 21st, 2024, taking place at the Westin Wall Centre, Vancouver Airport, 3099 Corvette Way, Richmond, BC V6X 4K3
This series promises to be beneficial not only for the hospice palliative care community but also for individuals from charitable, non-profit, public, and private sector organizations. Whether you’re a staff member, volunteer, or leader, this event will provide valuable insights and resources to support advocacy, partnership building, and government relations tailored to community needs.
We are excited to welcome distinguished speakers who will lead stimulating discussions, provide training, and offer education on how leaders and organizational teams can establish strategic advocacy relationships. Attendees can expect to gain practical knowledge on creating a diverse and inclusive environment to enhance community awareness, through advocacy.
Palliative Care Awareness: Bringing Hospice and Palliative Care to Home and Community, a Provincial Discussion
Dates: March 18th to 21st, 2024
Time: 11:30 am to 12:30 pm Pacific Standard Time
Location: Virtual and In-Person
Who Can Attend?
Hospice palliative care community,health authorities, ministerial staff, patients and families, individuals from charitable, non-profit, public, and private sector and community; staff member; volunteer; policy makers; funders; and organizational leaders.
Attending Rate
This event is FREE, but we will only be accepting 100 people at the in-person event. Registration covers both the virtual and in-person components of the series.
Member Rate: FREE REGISTRATION – LIMITED IN-PERSON SEATS
Non Members Rate: FREE REGISTRATION – LIMITED IN-PERSON SEATS
Student Members Rate: FREE REGISTRATION – LIMITED IN-PERSON SEATS
Hospice Volunteer Members Rate: FREE REGISTRATION – LIMITED IN-PERSON SEATS (Hospice Volunteers MUST be members through BCHPCA’s “Hospice Volunteer” membership level)
Please join us for our Spring Lunch & Learn Series.
BCHPCA Members, please log into your BCHPCA Members portal to register:
After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about how to join the Spring Lunch & Learn Webinar Series.
We are very excited to have our distinguished speakers catalyze conversations, bring training and education on how leaders and organizational teams can build strategic advocacy relationships and equip themselves with effective practices in a diverse and inclusive environment for community growth.
Day 1 – March 18th, 2024 11:30 – 12:30 – Virtual Event
Webinar Description
What comes to mind when you think of Hospice Societies?
It may be a building housing individuals who require specialized care, a room in a hospital or health institution, or perhaps even a house you observed walking down the street with the word “hospice” in the name?
The term Hospice Society has been a source of confusion for both health care providers and the general public over the years. In this series, you will learn what hospices in British Columbia are and how they contribute to the local community.
During this session we will explore the new consensus definition for hospice societes and the care they deliver, we will even break out into groups to discuss what strategic awareness initiatives can be implemented to support bringing awareness to hospice societies in community, to government and the public.
Objectives
- A brief introduction to the Consensus Naming Definition and its importance
- Discover more about the Hospice Societies in British Columbia and the Yukon.
- A brief overview of how introducing Hospice care to the community through grief and bereavement can contribute to attracting a younger demographic and different cultural groups to volunteer and access hospice care
- Understanding the overarching impact of hospice societies and the role they play in supporting community partners, organizations, and government agencies. Investing in hospice societies has significant benefits.
Speaker: Pablita Thomas
Pablita Thomas, Executive Director of BCHPCA, will present on Consensus Definition: Bringing awareness of Hospice societies and the care they provide
As the Executive Director of BC Hospice and Palliative Care Association, Pablita brings expertise in advocacy, membership engagement, and strategic partnership development. Currently, Pablita is a sector contributor to the BC Rural Health Linked Sectors, the secretariat of the Hospice Care Alliance of BC, as well as a member of the Board of CARIPALCA – The Caribbean Palliative Care Association, a regional organization whose mission is to represent and advocate for palliative care in Caribbean countries.
Pablita is a recent graduate of the Australian Institute of Business and holds a dual honours degree in social services from Guelph Humber University and a medical degree from Ross Medical University.
Pablita has French/Creole Caribbean heritage and is from Point a Pitre, Guadeloupe. She has two beautiful daughters, ages 8 and 9.
Day 2 – March 19th, 2024 11:30 – 12:30 – Virtual Event
Webinar Description
Introduction of Hospice and how they can support LTC and a palliative approach Hospices are uniquely positioned in BC communities to provide expert support to Long Term Care Homes. The depth of understanding of a palliative approach, end of life care and care into bereavement is a wealth of knowledge that hospices hold. These can be leveraged to make connections to LTC homes and support the BC elder communities in LTC homes. Strengthening a Palliative Approach to Care in Long Term Care (SPA-LTC) is a national program and has a repository of tools that are available to hospices to use to support LTC homes. Join us to hear about the SPA-LTC program and how your Hospice can use these tools in support of LTC homes in your community.
Objectives
- Set the stage for a Palliative Approach to Care in LTC homes
- Introduction to the SPA-LTC program
- Brief overview of SPA-LTC toolkit
- Understand SPA-LTC resources Hospices can access
- Understand Hospices are a strong resource to LTC
- Understand Hospice can partner in care with LTC home for supporting a palliative approach
Speaker: Clara Dyck
Clara Dyke: Education and Resource Leader North Okanagan Hospice Society, will present on Strengthening A Palliative Approach In Long-Term Care
Clara is the Education and Resource Leader at North Okanagan Hospice Society in Vernon, B.C. She is a research partner with Dr. Sharon Kaasalainen and McMaster University in the Strengthening A Palliative Approach in Long Term Care and Associate Member of the Institute for Healthy Living and Chronic Disease Preventions, University of British Columbia. She uses her expertise and knowledge of death and dying to support people along the care continuum from diagnosis of a life-limiting illness to bereavement, at all the healthcare touch points. Her breadth of knowledge of end-of-life care ranges from whole-person symptom management and advanced Care Planning to care for the dying in a culturally sensitive trauma-informed manner.
Day 3 – March 20th, 2024 11:30 – 12:30 – Virtual Event
Webinar Description
This webinar will provide an introduction and overview of British Columbia’s political climate and a presentation on how to successfully optimize advocacy to ensure your association achieves its advocacy goals by leveraging relationships with the government, media, and the public.
Objectives
- Be cognizant of the political climate in British Columbia
- Recognize how to optimize advocacy
- Understand the 10 principles of successful advocacy
Speaker: Sajjid Lakhani
Manager, Government Relations and Strategy
Sajjid is a results-oriented government relations, public affairs, and marketing professional with a track record of leadership and innovation that speaks for itself.
Sajjid has worked extensively in politics. He worked for a Member of Parliament for two years, held leadership roles on federal, provincial, and municipal election campaigns, and provided strategic direction for Electoral District Associations. Sajjid also has a background in the event and entertainment industry. This, in combination with his political experience, has equipped him with a keen understanding of the strategic, logistical, and creative elements needed to ensure the ongoing success of advocacy campaigns.
Sajjid is an alumnus of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) Field School and Simulation Program, an intensive political science experience that engages students with diplomacy and decision-making processes on the international stage. He is well-versed in global affairs, providing him with a unique perspective that serves him well when engaging with government stakeholders.
Sajjid holds a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and Communications from Simon Fraser University.
Day 4 – March 21st, 2024 11:30 – 1:30 – In Person Event
The Panel Event:
British Columbia’s aging population is steadily increasing and living longer with chronic diseases such as cancer, heart disease, lower respiratory disease, diabetes, Alzheimer’s disease, liver disease, Parkinson’s disease, or hypertension. By 2031, almost one in four British Columbians will be over the age of 65, making access to palliative care more vital than ever before.
In spite of this, only 52% of the deaths in British Columbia occurred between 2021 and 2022 received palliative care.
Also, grief and bereavement services that are part of the continuum of care of palliative care need to be addressed. Every eleven minutes, there is a death in British Columbia.In the event of a death, approximately seven people are affected, resulting in these individuals seeking help from community grief and bereavement groups, such as hospice societies.
The number of deaths in British Columbia is projected to increase to 44,700, and to 54,700 by 2037, that means 312,900, and 382,900 people will be seeking out support to help them cope with their grief and loss.
As a result, significant attention needs to be paid to existing gaps in our palliative care and grief and bereavement systems in order to prepare our province for our future healthcare challenges.
The provincial-wide conversation titled ”Palliative Care Awareness: Bringing Hospice and Palliative Care to Home and Community, a Provincial Discussion” highlights how urgent it is to solve pressing healthcare issues.
Event Focus:
Join us on March 21, 2024, at the westin wall centre, vancouver airport, 3099 Corvette Way, Richmond, BC V6X 4K3, as we explore important tactics meant to improve the quality and accessibility of palliative care throughout British Columbia. Participants, specialists, and advocates will gather from 11:30 AM to 1:30 PM PST to have incisive discussions, exchange viewpoints, and map out practical steps for revolutionary palliative care solutions.
Your Involvement Is Important:
You are most welcome to attend this vital event as it contributes to a group discussion that influences the direction of palliative care programs in our province. Together, we can create a healthcare environment that values compassionate, person-centered end-of-life care and act as a catalyst for significant change
Date & Time:
March 21st, 2024
11:30 AM – 1:30 PM PST
Location:
The Westin Wall Centre, Vancouver Airport
3099 Corvette Way, Richmond, BC V6X 4K3
Speaker: Adrian Dix
Since being elected to represent Vancouver-Kingsway in 2005, Adrian has forged a reputation as a passionate advocate for his constituents and their concerns and an effective member of the B.C. legislative assembly. He has consistently raised awareness of critical issues and forced needed change in areas ranging from children in care, seniors, fair treatment of workers and protecting public health research.
A strong advocate for public health care, Adrian has served as Minister of Health and Minister for Francophone Affairs since July 2017. In that role he has helped lead B.C.’s response to the continuing COVID-19 pandemic.
Before becoming an MLA, Adrian was the executive director for Canadian Parents for French, B.C.-Yukon Branch, a non-profit organization promoting language education. From 2001-05, Adrian was a political commentator and journalist, writing a column for the Victoria Times Colonist and the Source, a multicultural newspaper in Vancouver. From 1996 to 1999, he was the chief of staff to former B.C. premier Glen Clark.
He also served as Leader of the Opposition from 2011-14.
Adrian was raised in Vancouver and is a UBC graduate. He is married to award-winning poet and writer Renée Saklikar.
Speaker: Shirley Bond
Shirley Bond was first elected in 2001 as the MLA for Prince George-Valemount. She currently serves as the Shadow Minister for Health, Seniors Services and Long-Term Care.
Shirley has extensive experience serving as Minister of Jobs, Tourism and Skills Training and Minister Responsible for Labour, Deputy Premier, Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure, Minister of Education, Minister Responsible for Early Learning and Literacy, Minister of Advanced Education, and Minister of Health Services. She was the first female to hold the position of Attorney General in British Columbia’s history, a title she held while Minister of Justice. She has been honoured as a trailblazer in the B.C. justice system.
Shirley also served as the Chair of the Cabinet Committee on Strong Economy, Vice Chair of the Treasury Board, as a member on the Priorities and Planning Committee and the Cabinet Committee on Climate Leadership and worked directly with the Premier’s Women’s Economic Council.
In Opposition, Shirley has served as the Chair of the Select Standing Committee on Public Accounts and the Official Opposition Finance critic.
Before her election to the Legislative Assembly, she served three terms on the Prince George School Board, the last as chair. She also worked with the continuing education department of the Prince George School District, becoming its business manager. She was given the B.C. Interior, North & Yukon Woman of Distinction Award for her work in public education.
Shirley and her late husband Bill were married for 41 years. Shirley lives in Prince George and loves spending time with her family, especially her twin adult children, and grandsons Caleb and Cooper.
Speaker: Dan Levitt
Dan Levitt is a renowned international speaker, elder care leader, writer, and gerontologist, specializing in enhancing the lives of seniors worldwide. His mission revolves around empowering individuals to positively impact the experiences of older adults globally. Through captivating keynote addresses delivered across four continents, Dan inspires thousands, fostering a fresh perspective on aging essential for thriving in the modern era.
As the Chief Executive Officer of Kin Village, Dan Levitt oversees the advancement of housing, social engagement, and care services for over 300 residents and numerous community members. His leadership inspires a dedicated team of over 400 employees and volunteers committed to elevating the quality of life for all.
Beyond his role at Kin Village, Dan serves as an Adjunct Professor in Gerontology at Simon Fraser University and holds positions as an Adjunct Professor in the School of Nursing at the University of British Columbia and as a Sessional Instructor at the British Columbia Institute of Technology.
Dan’s adventurous spirit has led him from the heights of Africa’s Mt. Kilimanjaro to the depths of the Caribbean Sea’s coral reefs. His pursuits include canoeing across the Yukon and participating in the prestigious World Marathon Majors, reflecting his zest for exploration and commitment to living life to the fullest.
Speaker: Dr. Amy Tan
Dr. Amy Tan, MD MSc (Pall Med) CCFP(PC) FCFP, embodies a distinguished profile as a practitioner and advocate within the field of palliative care and family medicine. Of Cantonese Chinese heritage, Dr. Tan’s professional trajectory reflects a commitment to addressing health disparities and promoting equity in healthcare provision. Her academic contributions encompass a breadth of topics, including culturally-sensitive patient communication, ethical decision-making frameworks, anti-racist healthcare paradigms, primary palliative care, and advanced care planning.
As a Clinical Associate Professor in the Division of Palliative Care and Department of Family Practice at the UBC Faculty of Medicine, Dr. Tan’s tenure since 2005 attests to her enduring dedication to medical education and scholarly inquiry. Situated in Victoria, BC, she assumes pivotal roles as the Director of Teacher Assessment and Support within the UBC Faculty of Medicine’s Faculty Development Office and as a Faculty Mentor for UBC’s Family Medicine Residency Program, focusing on anti-racism initiatives.
Dr. Tan’s academic journey encompasses a trajectory spanning various esteemed institutions, including the University of Calgary for her medical studies, the University of Alberta for her residency training in family medicine, and Cardiff University, where she pursued a Master of Science in Palliative Medicine in 2011. Notably, she has held faculty appointments and leadership positions at the University of Alberta and the University of Calgary, contributing significantly to medical education and institutional leadership.
In her capacity as Section Editor for Racism & Health at PLOS Global Health Journal, Dr. Tan spearheads efforts to confront systemic inequities pervading public health discourse while amplifying marginalized voices and perspectives. Her advocacy extends to addressing the intersection of systemic racism and the COVID-19 pandemic, reflecting a commitment to fostering solutions for the structural inequities exposed by the crisis within the Canadian healthcare landscape.
Speaker: Denise Praill
Denise Praill joined Canuck Place in 2013 as Chief Development Officer and was appointed Chief Executive Officer in April 2022. She brings more than 20 years of experience and success as a senior executive in the philanthropic, non-profit and private sectors in BC.
Denise has helped build a diverse and talented team that brought a relationship-based fundraising model and other significant strategies to Canuck Place — doubling annual revenues from $9.1M to more than $18M. She has also been a key member of the senior leadership team, providing strategic vision and direction to the organization.
Before joining Canuck Place, Denise held front-line fundraising and senior management positions with United Way of the Lower Mainland. She also has management, communications and public relations experience in the private sector.
Denise holds her CFRE (Certified Fund Raising Executive) designation and is a long-standing member with the Association of Fundraising Professionals. She is an active volunteer in her community, currently serving on two non-profit boards dedicated to animal welfare.
Speaker: Angela Wignall
Director, Professional Practice & Health Policy Nurses and Nurse Practitioners of British Columbia (NNPBC) NNPBC is Canada’s first unified nursing association, serving all nursing designations of British Columbia. Angela is a registered nurse with a practice background in perinatal and public health. She works provincially, nationally, and globally at the intersection of nursing, policy and systems leadership.Angela lives and works on the unceded homelands of the Songhees and Esquimalt First Nations in what is today known as Victoria.
Speaker: Donna Flood
Executive Director, Prince George Hospice Donna Flood, a distinguished healthcare leader with over 40 years of experience, has made a global impact. She worked with Mother Teresa’s hospice in Calcutta and addressed unique healthcare challenges as Director of Care in Nunavut. As Executive Director of Prince George Hospice, Donna fosters innovation, collaboration, and financial sustainability. She has expanded Hospice Palliative Care from in house residential care to hospice care in the home. Community programs extend past Prince George and support people across the province.Honored with Queen’s Diamond and Platinum Jubilee medals, Donna served as President of BCHPCA and a Director of CHPCA. Her published papers on caregiving and end-of-life preparedness showcase her expertise.
About BC Hospice Palliative Care Association
BC Hospice Palliative Care Association is a not-for-profit, public membership organization, which has been representing individuals and organizations committed to promoting and delivering hospice/palliative care to British Columbians since 1986. We are focused on Advocacy, Education, Membership Support and Public Awareness.
Have questions? Contact us at events@bchpca.org.
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