The public is invited to join Weavers Way, Northwest Village Network, Ralston My Way, Mt. Airy USA and East Falls Village for a free forum on end-of-life issues on Sunday, Oct. 23, from 3 to 5 p.m.

Titled “Whose Life (and Death) Is It?” the forum, part of a continuing series dealing with issues of aging, takes place at First United Methodist Church of Germantown (FUMCOG), 6001 Germantown Ave.

End-of-life issues can be hard to face and difficult to discuss with families. Expressing one’s wishes requires a thoughtful approach and clear communication. Too often, families lack detailed direction. And final wishes can be countermanded or ignored by the attitudes and practices of medical institutions or local laws. 

At this forum, two seasoned experts will explore how we can gain control over end-of-life issues. 

Mt. Airy attorney Dan Ross has worked with individuals and couples on such legal matters for many years. “Mortality is a fact of life,” he says. “We can’t deny it or predict when the end will come so it is far better to be prepared. That takes a lot of stress off both our loved ones and us.” Ross adds that if you wait too long, you risk forcing others to make difficult decisions that may end up being contrary to your wishes. 

Linda Good, a local family physician with 45 years of experience, will speak from a doctor’s point of view about advance planning for managing end-of-life issues. She brings both  professional and personal perspectives on these issues, having been an advocate for her aging parents. She will share experiences and examples of how to best work with physicians and your family so plans and directives can be carried out in a way that’s consistent with your wishes. It’s your life — be in charge of it!

Following the presentations, the audience will have time to continue the discussion with the speakers, and local resources will provide additional information. Plenty of free parking is available  and FUMCOG is easily accessible by public transportation.