Article by Phoenix writer Nick Cortese ’23:
On Wednesday, January 11, Kellenberg alumna Meaghan Ledetsch returned to campus to host the annual Presentation on Death and Dying to the senior class. Ledetsch is a member of the class of 2005 and has since become a trained nurse with specific focus on cardiac care.
Seniors gathered in the auditorium to witness a glimpse into the complexities of end-of-life care. To prepare for such a sensitive issue, the senior Christian Existence classes discussed various topics covering death for two weeks prior.
They discussed topics such as the definition of brain death, palliative versus hospice care, and the moral and ethical issues surrounding physician-assisted suicide. Two cases of terminally ill patients were presented in order that the students realize that there is no one correct answer to the question of end-of-life care.
Those who attended walked out of the presentation with a better understanding that life is sacred, and that the question of death comes down to one’s faith and morals.
Mrs. Strauss, who holds a close connection with Ledetsch and invited her to deliver the presentation, stated why she believes the assembly is so important for the seniors. She reflected that, “Engaging in critical conversations on different moral issues that surround death allows us to examine life with tenderness and respect.”
Death and dying are very complex, sensitive topics to discuss, but when handled with care, a beautiful presentation and new appreciation for life can blossom within the witnesses.
