Being Mortal – Free Film Screening & Panel Discussion

JOIN US for a free screening and discussion of the PBS FRONTLINE film Being Mortal. Based on the best-selling book by Atul Gawande, MD, this documentary explores the hopes of patients and families facing terminal illness and their relationships with the physicians who treat them.

The documentary tells the story of physician Atul Gawande, who is learning to think about death and dying in the context of being a healer. By sharing stories from the perspective of both physicians and the people and families he encounters, including his own, the documentary sheds new light on how our system- so often focused on cure- neglects the important conversations that need to happen so that person’s true priorities can be known and honored at the end.

The stories in Being Mortal show us the value of shared decision making in medicine at the end of life and illustrate the importance of thinking and planning ahead as we reflect on what matters to us most. The stories further reveal the human side of physicians, whose own vulnerabilities, fears and lack of training may impede timely and open discussions with patients.

Panel Discussion to follow the screening. Join the conversation.