A Heartfelt Gathering: Reflections on Our First Death Café
A big thank you to our amazing facilitators, Chris & Kelly, and to everyone who joined us for our very first Death Café!
On September 23, Elliot Lake Palliative Care and the Elliot Lake Family Health Team came together to host our very first Death Café and what an inspiring afternoon it was.
More than just an event, the Death Café became a safe and welcoming space where people could gather to talk about something we often avoid: death and dying. But instead of fear or discomfort, the room filled with openness, curiosity, and respect.
What We Heard From Attendees
The feedback from participants was deeply encouraging:
“I loved hearing everyone’s ideas.”
“It felt like such a respectful environment.”
“The heartfelt conversations really stayed with me.”
These reflections remind us why conversations like these matter. When people come together to share, listen, and reflect, we create opportunities not just to talk about death but also to connect more fully with life.
Why Death Cafés Matter
Talking about death can feel uncomfortable, but it also helps us break down fear, build compassion, and strengthen our sense of community. A Death Café isn’t about grief counselling or formal education but about creating space for real, human conversation. In that circle, every voice matters, and every story has value.
Looking Ahead
We’re grateful to our facilitators, Chris and Kelly, for guiding us through the afternoon, and to every participant who showed up with openness and courage. Because of the incredible response, we’re excited to share that another Death Café will be happening in the new year (January 2026).
Until then, we hope you’ll carry forward the spirit of connection, honesty, and respect that made this first gathering so special. Together, we’re proving that talking about death can truly bring us closer to life. 💜
