The communities’ reaction has now meant the network will host a forum, Confident Care in Palliative Care on March 25 and 27.

Alexandra Devitt-Lansom from the network and Felicity Hage, director of care at Tanunda Lutheran Home, invite those who are interested or affected by a life threatening illness and are dealing with a palliative care situation.

The inaugural event will be led by a host of guest speakers including specialists who plan to talk and inform participants of the forum from a life threatening illness to after death.

It also helps by exploring the decisions which impact on the person who is ill, their families and health workers.

Palliative care is the holistic approach given to someone living with a life threatening illness. This includes physical, emotional and spiritual support. It was developed to help maximise the quality of a person’s life.

Alexandra explained palliative care supports any age with a range of trained professionals assisting people within their home, in hospital or in aged care facilities.

In addition to the forum, a performance, titled Deal with It, will be held on March 27 from 7pm inside the Barossa Arts and Convention Centre, Tanunda, where the forum will be run.

The semi-autobiographical play involves a daughter struggling to come to terms with a life-changing loss. The play, which contains adult themes and strong language, will be followed by a discussion involving the audience, the actor, palliative care services, counsellors, regional doctors and religious ministers.

Tickets for the play are $10 and for $30 the public has full registration and catering for the two day forum.

Bookings are essential and should be made through VenueTix on 8561 4299. For more details about the forum, contact Alexandra on 8562 1900.