Deb and Chris went to London Southbanks’ ‘Deathfest’ in 2012 & were amazed at how many people were there to find out more about death & dying, that they decided to try it in Southampton – and call it ‘Dead Good Days‘. With years of Palliative Care Nursing / Environmental teaching behind them, they continue to organise events in the area, and have added to the team of helpers friends / artists / health & other professionals
This year there will be Dead Good events, mainly in May to coincide with Dying Matters Awareness week.
The idea is to have a good and creative range that will appeal to different people, but all with the same aim. We know from personal and professional experience that death & dying can be better and an important step in this is starting the conversations. I remember the line ‘talking about sex doesn’t make you pregnant’ just as talking about death doesn’t make you die.
Events range from a Comedy night with ex nurse Rob Gee, an afternoon talking with Vet / artist Sarah Filmer about her job in relation to animal deaths, a session on Advance Care Planning so you get a chance to think about what you really want at the end of your life.
On May 24th there will be a ‘Dead Good Day Out’ at The Nuffield Southampton Theatre (city venue) in town – this will be an interactive, light of heart day where you can find out practical information such as how to care for someone who is dying, talking to children, & the importance of making a Will, there will be several short talks, a chance to discuss those ‘difficult to talk about deaths’ such as children & those from suicide or homelessness, a ‘Soul Midwife Sofa’ performance, ‘Ask The Expert’ booth, music, a poem made on the day with your contributions, books for sale from local independent October Books, coffin painting & display, art exhibition & plenty more.
Check out our website www.deadgooddays.com and please ‘like’ and ‘share’ the Dead Good Days Facebook page. We hope to see you in May.
Deb Wilkes & Chris Townsend
