Honoring the Reality of Loss: In Person St. Louis/St. Charles Meeting

Speakers: Kira Somach, Founder of The D-Word Duala; Pastor Jamesetta Roach, SSM Health

Talking about death is one of the most challenging—and most necessary—conversations in aging services. This two‑hour interactive session brings together experts in end‑of‑life care to help professionals build confidence, skill, and compassion when supporting residents, patients, families, and team members through death, dying, and grief.

Kira Somach, founder of The D‑Word Doula and author of End‑of‑Life Love Notes, will share her unique blend of dementia expertise, death‑doula practice, and long‑term care experience to demystify the “D word” and make conversations about death more approachable. Joined by a presenter from SSM Hospice (pending confirmation), the panel will explore how validating loss—both personally and organizationally—can reduce the emotional and psychological impact of grief.

Through a combination of lecture, audience participation, and small‑group discussions, attendees will examine why early, honest conversations about end‑of‑life wishes matter; how grief affects individuals and teams; and what supportive practices can strengthen well‑being across a community. Participants will leave with practical tools for initiating compassionate dialogue, honoring loss, and integrating grief‑support strategies into daily care.

Location: The Sarah Community / Anna House

12284 DePaul Drive
Bridgeton, MO 63044

Time: 9:00 am Refreshments & Networking

9:30 am-11:30 am Presentation

THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSOR FOR THIS MEETING:

Refreshment Sponsor: The Sarah Community

Location Sponsor: The Sarah Community

*****IMPORTANT MEETING INFORMATION

There is no charge to attend – you can register for a free ticket!
But IF YOU WANT CEU CREDIT, YOU MUST PURCHASE A CEU TICKET IN ADVANCE through the Eventbrite registration button above.
There is a $10.00/credit hour CEU processing fee.

Disclaimer: MC5 is unable to process refunds for any regional meetings. We apologize for any inconvenience.

Any questions can be directed to [email protected].

2 Administrator CEUs

2 Activity Professional CEUs

2 Social Worker CEUs

2 CEUs approved by National Council of Certified Dementia Practitioners and International Council of Certified Dementia Practitioners

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​​2026 ​Meeting Dates

February 27, 2026

May 29, 2026

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CEU Processing Fee for MC5 Meetings In order to receive CEUs at an MC5 event, you must register for the meeting through Eventbrite and pay directly online.
​If you need help, feel free to contact MC5 at [email protected].
MC5 appreciates your participation and interest and looks forward to continuing to bring great speakers to your area!

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