Death Cafe profile for evoci


Death Cafe write up: Carmel Death Cafe

Posted by evoci on June 19, 2019, 1:31 p.m.

Ten people met for the Cafe on a rainy Sunday afternoon but our spirits were happy and the conversation was lively, and respectful.  We discussed Near Death experiences, funerals vs celebrations of life, and the changing legal landscape of physician assisted end of life care.  

Comments from writen evaluations include:  Three words the describe my experience:  "enlightening; a sense of community; and heartful sharing. The event went beyond my expectations."

Other comments: "I had a strong sense of community; it was thought provoking and grounding.  Thank you!"

"I want to prepare a to do list in more details so I can be ready as I age and die ...



Death Cafe: Carmel Death Cafe

Posted by evoci on June 19, 2019, 1:20 p.m.


With Elaine Voci Life Skills Coaching

Sept. 15, 2019, 2.00 p.m. - 4.00 p.m. (EST)

Free

The Cafe is free, free of ideology, open and welcoming to adults 18 and older; the agenda is driven by the attendees and our conversation is free wheeling and respectful. 



Death Cafe write up: The Carmel Death Cafe

Posted by evoci on Dec. 18, 2018, 3:02 p.m.


On December 16, 2018 our Cafe met from 2 pm to 4 pm, and was attended by 10 people.  We discussed loss, grief and the influence of religion on attitudes toward death.  Some words that attendees used to describe their experience included:  Delightful; inspiring; thought-provoking; intimate;helpful; and friendly.

This Cafe is now entering its fifth year; it has been a joy and a blessing to host and facilitate these gatherings.  As one person wrote, "So nicely set up and facilitated; thank you! I look forward to coming back!"



Death Cafe: Carmel Death Cafe

Posted by evoci on Dec. 18, 2018, 2:51 p.m.


With Elaine Voci Life Skills Coaching

March 24, 2019, 2.00 p.m. - 4.00 p.m. (EST)

Accepts donations

The Carmel Death Cafes are open conversations between adults 18 and older; they are free of charge and free of ideology.  All viewpoints are welcome. 

Not a grief counseling, or ...



Death Cafe write up: Carmel Death Cafe

Posted by evoci on Dec. 18, 2017, 2:57 p.m.

We met at the Church and 12 people attended, 4 of them new to the group. Our conversation was free-ranging as we discussed how we want to be remembered, and our life legacies, along with describing a death that influenced how we think of death.  Holiday cupcakes added a festive and delicious touch for our gathering and our fellowship of kindred spirits.  



Death Cafe: The Carmel Death Cafe

Posted by evoci on Dec. 18, 2017, 2:53 p.m.



With Elaine Voci Life Skills Coaching, LLC

March 18, 2018, 2.00 p.m. - 4.00 p.m. (EST)

free

I am hosting and facilitating the Carmel Death Cafe because I want to encourage people to talk about death as part of expanding our consciousness and making life more balanced ...



Death Cafe write up: Carmel Death Cafe

Posted by evoci on Oct. 20, 2017, 10:29 a.m.


We met at a new location, the Heartland Unitarian Universalist Church, and 8 of us gathered for a spirited conversation over coffee, tea and an autumn cake.  Topics included suicide, loss of our parents and society's fear of talking about death.  

We will meet at this location for the final cafe of the year to be held on Sunday December 17 from 2 pm to 4 pm.



Death Cafe: Carmel Death Cafe

Posted by evoci on Sept. 18, 2017, 9:30 a.m.



With Elaine Voci LIfe SKills Coaching, LLC

Dec. 17, 2017, 2.00 p.m. - 4.00 p.m. (EST)

Free

The Cafe is free of ideology, free of cost (although a donation is always welcome to cover cost of rental space and refreshments) and free of any pressure to adopt ...



Death Cafe write up: Carmel Death Cafe

Posted by evoci on March 25, 2017, 3:05 p.m.


We had 12 people attend, and enjoyed some delicious lemon cheesecake squares, tea, coffee and water  Participant comments included:

" I felt free to talk about death and not feel awkward or judged.  Grateful that this is offered! Thank you!"

"Three words: open, helpful, nonjudgemental!"

"Heartfelt, compassionate and caring group."

"Thoughtful, safe and confirming."

"I enjoy this gathering. There is always a lively discussion and sharing.  Interesting and curious people come to share their viewpoints."

"Having common thoughts and questions and ideas about death and life. Reaffirming the commonality of people thinking about death."

"It's always a pleasure to have your facilitation; you are helpful in the way ...



Death Cafe: Carmel Death Cafe

Posted by evoci on March 2, 2017, 12:03 p.m.



With Elaine Voci Life Skills Coaching, LLC

March 19, 2017, 2.00 p.m. - 4.00 p.m. (EST)

Free

Life and death are two sides of the same coin; talking about death and dying helps prepare for living fully and leaving a legacy once our time on earth has ...



Death Cafe write up: Carmel Death Cafe

Posted by evoci on Sept. 19, 2016, 1:39 p.m.


Our focus was on suicide as we began by discussing the Wisconsin 14 year old who wishes to stop treatment, enter hospice and die and the controversy her wishes have generated.

Evaluation comments included answers to the question, What three words would you use to describe this Death Cafe experience? 

* depth, compassion and joy

* Expansive, enlightening and wonder

* Interesting, probing and informative

* Insightful, spiritual and safe

* Safe, connecting and tolerance

* Exploration of messages from other side

One person wrote, :I always feel so blessed when I leave  and I truly enjoy these gatherings."



Death Cafe write up: Carmel Death Cafe

Posted by evoci on July 17, 2016, 3:33 p.m.


Our Cafe group continues to attract new attendees and today was no exception. We discussed death and dying, the changes in laws in the US and Canada on physician assisted suicide and how each of us has experienced the death of our parents with a view to how we wish to die.  Stimulating, free wheeling and very respectful and supportive of each others' opinions. 



Death Cafe: Carmel Death Cafe

Posted by evoci on July 17, 2016, 3:25 p.m.



With Elaine Voci Life Skills Coaching LLC

Sept. 18, 2016, 2.00 p.m. - 4.00 p.m. (EST)

Free

The Cafe is open, and welcoming to all adults over 18 years of age.  As facilitator, Elaine does not try and persuade anyone to a particular viewpoint on death and ...



Death Cafe write up: Carmel Death Cafe

Posted by evoci on March 22, 2016, 9:43 p.m.


Our free flowing discussion was about human consciousness and the awareness of self.  We shared stories of how our consciousness has grown and described it as those times in our lives when we had a profound sense of unity and perfection.  Definitions are mostly elusive; but self-awareness, mindfulness and conscious living are some ways that consciousness is expressed.

A stimulating discussion with new members and "regular" attendees. The Carmel Death Cafes have met once a month since 2014, but now we meet quarterly.

A delicious cake and beverages were served and enjoyed in the special fellowship of this group.



Death Cafe: Carmel Death Cafe

Posted by evoci on March 22, 2016, 9:30 p.m.



With ELaine Voci Life Skills Coaching, LLC

June 12, 2016, 2.00 p.m. - 4.00 p.m. (EST)

Free

The Cafe is free of charge, free of ideology, open to adults 18 and older, is confidential and respectful and welcoming to all, regardless of religious or spiritual beliefs. 



Death Cafe write up: Carmel Death Cafe

Posted by evoci on Dec. 15, 2015, 9:21 a.m.


We met for the final Cafe of the year 2015 from 2-4 pm at 11805 North Pennsylvania Street in Carmel, IN; a new person came to visit and she is preparing to become a death doula. Much of the conversation that ensued was about that role, and then it launched us into talking more about death and holiday traditions,  loss of loved ones, becoming the elder in the family of origin.

Next year, the Carmel Death Cafe will meet quarterly in the same location and same time - on Sundays, March 20,June 12,Sept 18 and Dec.11, 2016.



Death Cafe: Carmel Death Cafe

Posted by evoci on Nov. 20, 2015, 7:14 a.m.



With Elaine Voci Life Skills Coaching, LLC

Dec. 13, 2015, 2.00 p.m. - 4.00 p.m. (EST)

free

Life and death are two sides of the same coin; you can't talk about one without talking about the other. Death is in the news a lot thse days ...



Death Cafe write up: Carmel Death Cafe

Posted by evoci on July 20, 2015, 9:41 a.m.


We discussed proposed changes to Medicare that will cover physician-client conversations regarding end of life issues.  We expect to participate in national comments sought by Medicare and are in support of this change.

We also discussed deathbed conversations we have had with parents, adult children and friends who have passed on and how these experiences have influenced our attitudes toward dying. 



Death Cafe: Carmel Death Cafe

Posted by evoci on July 20, 2015, 9:38 a.m.



With Elaine Voci Life Skills Coaching LLC

Aug. 16, 2015, 2.00 p.m. - 4.00 p.m. (EST)

free

When death was close to Americans 100 years ago, it was a familiar, natural part of life, and it was a family event with the family washing the body, clothing ...



Death Cafe write up: Carmel Death Cafe

Posted by evoci on April 20, 2015, 2:21 p.m.


The conversation was lively, animated, thoughtful, and engaging. One visitor traveled 2 hours to join in the conversation, and half of the group were first time attendees.

To the question, "What are three words to describe the Cafe experience?" attendees wrote...

Enlightening, thought provoking, a feeling of connectedness

Comfortable/warm, clarifying and open

Engaging, comfortable and insightful

A wonderful afternoon and a great experience!



Link: Favorite quotes from Carmel Death Cafes in Indiana

Posted by evoci on March 27, 2015, 3:33 p.m.


"I'm not afraid to die I just don't want to be there when it happens."  Woody Allen

"I hate to be the bearer of bad news but you're gonna die!"  Captain James Kirk, Star Trek commander

"Spoiler alert:  Life's a movie where everyone dies at the ...

Death Cafe: Carmel Death Cafe

Posted by evoci on March 27, 2015, 3:18 p.m.


With Elaine Voci Life Skills Coaching LLC

April 19, 2015, 2.00 p.m. - 4.00 p.m. (EST)

FREE

As facilitator, I will introduce, and guide the discussion while not leading people toward any particular conclusions about death or the afterlife.  

Participants are asked to respect one another's ...



Death Cafe: Carmel Death Cafe in Indiana

Posted by evoci on Jan. 13, 2015, 12:35 p.m.



With Elaine Voci Life Skills Coaching

March 15, 2015, 2.00 p.m. - 4.00 p.m. (EST)

FREE

The Cafes are always free to participants, free from ideology, safe and nurturing, accessible and confidential.  The beautiful group of people who gather each month are like minded and interested ...



Death Cafe write up: Carmel Death Cafe in Indiana

Posted by evoci on Dec. 22, 2014, 3:27 p.m.


The gathering was held on the Winter Solstice, Sunday afternoon, Dec 21, 2014. Participants were asked to describe the most enjoyable aspect of the Cafe they responded:  

"the openness" "hearing others' thoughts and comments which help me see things differently and listening to everyone, I love the descriptor 'intimate'";"the exchange of ideas and theories"; "sharing - everyone seemed comfortable in participating";"the casual atmosphere";"the sense of community we have with one another";"the sharing of stories";and "the open forum with whole group participation."  

A warm and caring sense of community was remarked upon by several people and one person who was attending for the first time ...



Death Cafe: Carmel Death Cafe in Indiana

Posted by evoci on Nov. 18, 2014, 10:52 a.m.



With Elaine Voci Life Skills Coaching, LLC

Dec. 21, 2014, 1.00 p.m. - 2.30 p.m. (EST)

None; the Cafe is free.

We start promptly at 1 pm and continue until 2:30; a short written evaluation is completed by attendees and the feedback is read with an eye toward continually improving ...



Link: Poem by Kubler Ross

Posted by evoci on Oct. 24, 2014, 12:49 p.m. 1 comment


It's only when we truly know and understand that we have a limited time on earth - and that we have no way of kniwing when our time is up - that we will begin to live each day to the fullest, as if it were the only one we had."

Death Cafe: Carmel Death Cafe in Indiana

Posted by evoci on Oct. 24, 2014, 12:41 p.m.



With Elaine Voci, Ph.D.

Nov. 16, 2014, 1.00 p.m. - 2.30 p.m. (EST)

free

Death is the final taboo in our culture and Death Cafes provide a simple and comfortable format in which to meet others who are like-minded and interested in talking about ...



Death Cafe write up: Carmel Death Cafe in Indiana

Posted by evoci on Oct. 24, 2014, 12:17 p.m.


On Sunday October 19th, the Death Cafe met with 12 attending.  There was much discussion of suicide and assisted suicide inspired by a 29 year old woman named Brittany who has chosen to end her life next month as the result of being diagnosed with a virulent form of brain cancer. 

Our gathering was enhanced with a gluten free dessert and fresh fruit; evaluation comments included responses to the question "What was the most enjoyable aspect of the Cafe?"

  • It is inspiring to talk to others
  • Our participation
  • Enjoyed topic starter and how the conversation just flowed
  • Open conversation about a difficult subject
  • Safe enviroment to discuss death ...


Death Cafe write up: Carmel Death Cafe in Indiana

Posted by evoci on Sept. 22, 2014, 11:48 a.m.


The Cafe was a lively gathering of people from the local area, including Anderson, IN.  Evaluation comments included descriptions such as "inviting, intriguing, timely", interesting, provcative and shared commonalities". and "valuable, spiritual and enlightening."

The environment was described by one person as "peaceful, calming and thoughtful".  

The most enjoyable aspect of the Death Cafe included "Hearing stories about death from people with wisdom and different life experiences", "meeting others with compassion", and "Sharing with others who are open in heart and in mind."

Several people signed up for the next cafe being held on Sunday, October 19.  To register for this free event, call Elaine at 317-730-5481; seating ...



Death Cafe write up: Carmel Death Cafe in Indiana

Posted by evoci on Aug. 20, 2014, 5:01 p.m.


The Aug. 17th Death Cafe was well attended and delicous desserts and beverages were enjoyed by all.  Evaluation comments included:

"The discussion and different perspectives reminding us all to be alive and enjoy life!"

"Informative, friendly and safe! Thank you for making these timely events."

"Everyone was engaged in the topics and the atmosphere was accepting, enlightening and lively."



Death Cafe: Carmel Death Cafe in Indiana

Posted by evoci on Aug. 20, 2014, 4:46 p.m.


With Elaine Voci Life Skills Coaching, LLC

Sept. 21, 2014, 1.00 p.m. - 2.30 p.m. (EST)

Free

The Cafes are free, free of ideology, safe and nurturing, accessible and confidential.  Open to adults 18 years and older, the Cafes provide delicious desserts and beverages, along with comfortable ...



Death Cafe: Carmel Death Cafe in Indiana

Posted by evoci on July 22, 2014, 11:57 a.m.



With Elaine Voci Life Skills Coaching, LLC

Aug. 17, 2014, 1.00 p.m. - 2.30 p.m. (EST)

Free

I feel honored to facilitate Death Cafes in Carmel, IN because I believe there is a hunger in people today to talk about death, the final taboo.  I am proud ...



Death Cafe write up: Death Cafes Carmel, IN

Posted by evoci on July 22, 2014, 11:34 a.m. 1 comment


The first Carmel Death Cafe was held on Sunday July 20, 2014!  What a great group of people to meet.  They were enthusiastic and grateful for one another; in fact, the "theme" in their evaluation comments was that they appreciated being with like-minded people who were willing to talk about death and dying.  One even called it "fun" and another referred to it as a "fresh breath of openness".  Love that!

 
Comments from the evals included...
Three words used to describe the experience:
Meaningful
Educational (2)
Very useful and valuable (2)
Hopeful
Reflective
Comfortable and comforting (2)
Interesting (5)
Informative (3)
Safe to express myself (2)
Different feelings ...


Death Cafe: Death Cafes Carmel, IN

Posted by evoci on July 11, 2014, 7:30 a.m.


With Elaine Voci Life Skills Coaching, LLC

July 20, 2014, 1.00 p.m. - 2.30 p.m. (Eastern Standard )

Free

Our society doesn't make it easy for people to talk about death and that is what a Death Cafe does.  We'll make time to talk and think about ...