Dying (to) Talk
About this Event
Because conversations about dying are ultimately conversations about living, loving, and caring for one another.
More than a lecture, this is an opportunity to learn, reflect, and participate in the kind of conversation many of us long to have- but rarely know how to begin. Together we'll explore not only Medical Aid in Dying (MAiD), but the questions it raises about autonomy, compassion, caregiving, and what it means to accompany one another through life's final chapter.
Created for those who walk alongside others through serious illness, dying, and loss, this forum welcomes end-of-life doulas, hospice and palliative care professionals, volunteers, caregivers, counselors, social workers, chaplains, and others drawn to this work.
MAiD takes effect in New York on August 5, 2026, becoming the 14th US jurisdiction to legalize MAiD. As this new end-of-life option becomes part of our healthcare landscape, many people are left with questions- not only about what the law says, but about the emotional and deeply human considerations it raises.
Agenda
🕑: 11:45 AM - 12:00 PM
Sign In
🕑: 12:00 PM - 12:10 PM
Welcome
Host: Jennifer Sanfilippo
Info: This is the second "Dying (to) Talk" symposium convened by Jennifer. She created these public education forums as part of her mission to build bridges of compassion to connect us through our shared human experience.
🕑: 12:10 PM - 12:30 PM
Medical Aid in Dying in NY: An Overview
Host: Mandi Zucker, Executive Director, End of Life Choices NY
Info: Mandi will provide an educational overview of New York's Medical Aid in Dying law, including its legal framework, implementation, and clarification of common misconceptions.
🕑: 12:30 PM - 12:50 PM
Implementation Across Rochester Area Health Systems
Host: Dr. Chris Reynolds
Info: Dr. Reynolds will provide an update on how local health systems are implementing MAiD.
🕑: 01:00 PM - 02:00 PM
Speaking from Experience
Host: Vermont End-of-Life Doulas Lindsey Warren & Kasey March
Info: Drawing on more than a decade of experience supporting individuals, loved ones, and caregivers through Vermont's Medical Aid in Dying process, the presenters will share personal stories that illuminate the psychosocial complexities, nuances, and deeply human experience of this end-of-life choice.
🕑: 02:00 PM - 02:15 PM
Stretch Break
Info: Integrated Medicine Specialist Carmen Ramos will lead attendees in a short breathing exercise. Light finger foods and beverages available.
🕑: 02:15 PM - 02:45 PM
Q & A
Info: Keynote speakers Lindsey and Kasey will take questions from the audience.
🕑: 02:45 PM - 03:45 PM
Facilitated Small Group Discussions
Info: Mental health professionals will facilitate break out group dialogue on attendees' thoughts and feelings about the presented materials.
🕑: 03:45 PM - 04:00 PM
Closing Remarks
Info: Alida Merrill, BSN, MPH, MSMFT will summarize the day's events, and provide information on supporting resources.
🕑: 04:00 PM - 05:00 PM
Reception
Host: Sponsored by Candis Best, Founder & CEO, Leaf & Water
Info: Meet our keynote speakers and reception sponsor. Network with event attendees and event organizers. Visit our resource gallery. Light finger foods and beverages kindly sponsored by Candis Best, Founder and President of Leaf and Water Cremation. https://leafandwatercremation.com/
Where is it happening?
Event Location & Nearby Stays:
USD 0.00 to USD 70.00
