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N.D. (NewsDakota.com) – Hospice of the Red River Valley will be holding a free screening of the documentary “Being Mortal” on June 7th at Edgewood in Jamestown.

“The Emmy-nominated documentary delves into the hopes of patients and families facing terminal illness,” a release from the group says. “The film investigates the practice of caring for the dying and explores the relationships between patients and their doctors. It follows a surgeon, Dr. Atul Gawande, as he shares stories from the people and families he encounters.”

“When Dr. Gawande’s own father gets cancer, his search for answers about how best to care for the dying becomes a personal quest. The film sheds light on how a medical system focused on a cure often leaves out the sensitive conversations that need to happen so a patient’s true wishes can be known and honored at the end.”

A discussion and conversation with Dr. Tricia Langlois, medical director with Hospice of the Red River Valley, will take place following the screening. The documentary underscores the importance of people planning ahead and talking with family members about end-of-life decisions.

“Seventy percent of Americans say they would prefer to die at home, but nearly 70 percent die in hospitals and institutions. Ninety percent of Americans know they should have conversations about end-of-life care, yet only 30 percent have done so,” the release states.

The screening is made possible by a grant from The John and Wauna Harman Foundation in partnership with the Hospice Foundation of America.

Because seating is limited, interested individuals are asked to call and reserve a spot. For more information, call (800)-238-4629 ext. 1525.