Today, the Horizon Foundation announced the launch of Speak(easy) Howard’s community wide campaign to make it easier for everyone in Howard County to name the person they’d want to make medical decisions for them if they cannot — and to talk to that person about their wishes for care. The campaign includes:
- A new website (speakeasyhoward.org) to help you think through your preferences for care, talk with loved ones, and name a health care agent – the person you choose to make medical decisions if you can’t.
- New ads that will air digitally and on TV, including one featuring Rev. Ostein Truitt from St John Baptist Church in Columbia.
- Free public events offering step-by-step help to begin the planning process. Already, the Horizon Foundation and partners have hosted events for hundreds of community members.
Why Speak(easy) Howard?
Ninety percent of people say talking with their loved ones about their preferences for care is important. Yet only 27 percent have actually done so. There are plenty of reasons why, and they might differ for each of us. But the bottom line is this – when we have people who depend on us and people we love, we owe it to them to make a plan and talk to them about it. That way we don’t leave them with burden or uncertainty, and we all get more peace of mind.
The Horizon Foundation is partnering with many community groups including leading health care providers, faith congregations and community organizations that are championing this work.
Find upcoming events at speakeasyhoward.org/more-help
