Death Cafe Northumberland
A write up of Death Cafe - Northumberland, Canada
Our first Death Cafe event, even with the winter storm, was well attended.
Our first event took place in Warkworth Ontario with an attendance of 27 people. There were 23 women and 4 men. The age range was predominately between 65-74, followed by the range of 55-64. We allowed a half hour for everyone to get settled with their tea and treats before we started our meeting.
Introducing what a death cafe was and where it all began was a good beginning. The venue we had arranged, allowed for wonderful conversations to unfold. Warm fireplace and individual tables created an intimate, but open atmosphere. Participants felt safe.
Everyone got a chance to move about and mingle with many different people throughout the evening. Our group " Last Breath " who hosted this event, was very instumental in supporting the conversations at each table just by their presence and gentle encouragment.
The most meaningful aspects of the evening that was shared by many was in hearing of others experiences with death and not having their views judged as right or wrong.
The one comment as a suggestion was to have more education and instruction. I'm not sure if this was with regards to specific subject matter/topics.
As we know the Death Cafe is not about offering information on any one aspect of death and dying so I think this request would come from a different seminar or workshop not affiliated with Death Cafe.
The 3 words used most often to describe the participants death cafe experience were: Informative, enlightening and interesting.
Our next Death Cafe will be in April in Brighton Ontario. We already have registered 11 people.
All around a positive experience had by all.