Lesson 1

The Journey Prior to Palliative Care with Malenna Sumrall

Malenna Sumrall, Patient and Care Partner Advocate with the International Neuropalliative Care Society, shares her lived experience as a care partner for her husband who was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease dementia (PDD). Beginning with her discovery of neuropalliative care and continuing through her experiences with social work, spiritual care and hospice care, Malenna will explain the role and impact each of these unique components had in her palliative care journey.

Lesson 2

Neuropalliative Care: An Approach and a Specialty with Dr. Benzi Kluger

Dr. Benzi Kluger is a Professor of Neurology and Medicine, and the Director of the Palliative Care Research Center at the University of Rochester Medical Center (New York). In this lesson, Dr. Kruger introduces the basics of palliative care and outlines how the pillars of palliative care can guide you on how to advocate for your needs and become empowered to access the best treatment resources for you.

Lesson 3

The Role of Social Work with Sarah Mitchell Chen, MSW, LCSW, APHSW-C

Sarah Mitchell Chen, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker at LBDA’s Research Center of Excellence at Rush University, examines the role of the social worker as a member of the care team. In this lesson, you will learn ways in which social work can help you define a ‘practical roadmap,’ and address anticipatory planning while living with Lewy. Additional resources will be discussed.

Lesson 4

Caring for the Spiritual Needs of Someone with LBD and their Family with Sue Ouellette, Ph.D.

Dr. Sue Ouellette, Chaplain, outlines the role of spiritual care for the person living with LBD and the support person (s). Care partner burn out and the importance of self-care for the care partner is addressed in this compassionate and informative session.

Lesson 5

Specialist Palliative Care and the Transition to Hospice with Dr. Neha Kramer

Dr. Neha Kramer, a palliative neurologist at Rush University Medical Center, delivers an overview of the many benefits a palliative care specialist can provide from the time of diagnosis with LBD. From providing a road map of what to expect with disease progression and coordinating care to help you identify your wishes, establish priorities and gain a sense of control, palliative care specialists provide crucial support for managing and maintaining quality of life. Dr. Kramer compares and contrasts palliative care and hospice, providing insight into the options, resources and process.