Writing on the Topic of Death

We will write a few short pieces from our unique perspectives using prompts that resonate with us. We will reflect on our feelings, memories and experiences. Please note that these are not counselling or support group sessions, although you may find support in sharing with the group. These are intended to be on-camera sessions so that that we can engage while sharing our stories.  All participants will make a commitment to keeping confidential anything we hear during the session in order to create a safe space. We will treat each piece of writing as fiction. We encourage you to share some of your writing with the group, but you always have the option of passing.  We will hear our various perspectives with compassion and without fear of judgment.

Lois Hayes

Lois has been a writing group member and facilitator using the Amherst Writers and Artists (AWA) method for almost twenty years.  She is passionate about facilitating workshops using the AWA method for individuals as well as groups, including seniors, adoption-focused, and women’s retreats.  As a hospice volunteer, she facilitates four Death Cafes a year and provides workshops for hospice clients, volunteers and staff, focusing on grief and bereavement, caregivers, and legacy writing.  Lois was adopted at ten days old and reunited with her birth family as an adult.  She has been involved with her local Parent Finders Search & Support Group for the past 30 years.

Allison Hannah

Allison Hannah is a certified Amherst Writers and Artists (A.W.A.) Facilitator who retired in 2024 from a career in the world of foster care and adoption. Writing to prompts with others helps her to mine for stories. She recently published a memoir, With and Without You: Finding my Mom on the Page. She sees that time spent writing is never wasted and enjoys introducing others to all that can be derived from finding their voices using the A.W.A. writing method. She is a member of the Writers’ Community of York Region.

Session length: 2 hours with one short break.

 Cost: $20 Canadian for one session. $15 for each additional session in the winter series.

 To register and pay for the session(s) via e-transfer: email allisonhannah073@gmail.com

Credit cards are not accepted at this time. If the price is a barrier to your participation, please contact the organizers to discuss.

Note that there is a maximum of 9 participants per session due to the interactive nature of the session. First come, first served. We will start a waiting list if needed.

For Information about Amherst Writers and Artists: www.amherstwriters.org