They’ve Stopped Eating. Now What?

Changes in eating and drinking can be among the most distressing experiences for families when someone is seriously ill or approaching death.

This free webinar offers an introductory understanding of why eating may change near the end of life, the emotional meaning families attach to food and helpful questions to bring to the healthcare team.

Date and time

Wednesday, October 14, 2026
12:00–1:00 PM Mountain Time
Live online
Free

What We’ll Explore

Together, we’ll consider:

• why appetite and thirst often change near the end of life
• what the body may be communicating
• the difference between refusing food and no longer needing it
• why encouraging or insisting on food can sometimes create discomfort
• gentle ways to offer comfort and care
• when families should seek guidance from the healthcare team

This gathering offers clear, compassionate education about one of the most difficult changes families may encounter as someone approaches the end of life.

Who This Gathering Is For

This webinar may be meaningful for family members, friends, caregivers, volunteers and anyone supporting a person who is seriously ill or approaching the end of life.

No previous knowledge or professional experience is required.

Recording Access

Registered participants will receive access to the recording following the live gathering.

The recording will remain available until Wednesday, October 28, 2026, at 11:59 PM Mountain Time.

What We’ll Explore

Together, we’ll consider:

• why exhaustion and love can exist at the same time
• what prolonged uncertainty asks of families and caregivers
• the difference between wanting suffering to end and wanting a person gone
• why relief can become entangled with guilt
• how conflicting feelings can be part of an honest human response
• what may help when we are carrying more than one feeling at once

This gathering offers a compassionate place to understand thoughts and feelings that many people experience but may be afraid to say aloud.

Who This Gathering Is For

This webinar may be meaningful for family members, friends, caregivers, volunteers and professionals accompanying someone through serious illness, dying or an extended period of uncertainty.

No previous knowledge or professional experience is required. 

About Cindy Butler

Cindy Butler is the founder of the Centre for Supportive Palliative Education. Her background includes palliative massage, contemplative and end-of-life care, birth doula work and more than three decades of adult education.

Her work helps people understand, prepare for and accompany the consequential experiences and transitions of human life.

A Note About Participation

This is an educational gathering and is not a substitute for medical care, counselling, therapy or crisis support. You are welcome to participate quietly, and personal sharing is always optional.

Your registration information will be used to provide access and communications related to this gathering. Please see our Privacy Policy for more information. 

Be Part of This Gathering

Enter your name and email below to register. You’ll receive the Zoom information, gathering reminders and information about the limited-time replay.