PHILIPSBURG, Sint Maarten — St. Maarten Medical Center (SMMC) and the White and Yellow Cross Care Foundation (WYCCF) invite the public to a free community event called “Let’s Start the Conversation” on Thursday, August 20, from 6:30 PM to 9:00 PM, taking place at the WYCCF’s Big Dining Room. The event is open to everyone and no registration is needed.
The evening covers an important but sometimes difficult topic: what kind of healthcare would you want if one day you are not able to speak for yourself?
“Many families only talk about these questions when there is already an emergency. This event encourages people to start the conversation earlier, so loved ones and healthcare workers better understand a person’s wishes”, shared WYCCF.
During the evening, speakers will explain topics such as how to talk with family about healthcare wishes, how people can be involved in decisions about their own care, advance directives, and Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) decisions. There will also be a panel discussion where visitors can ask questions and hear from healthcare and other professionals. The event follows a successful event at SMMC earlier this year, specifically for healthcare workers.
SMMC and WYCCF hope the event will help make these conversations easier and encourage more people to think about their wishes before a difficult situation happens. “This event may be especially useful for people who have elderly parents, grandparents, or other loved ones, but everyone is welcome. Information and support will also be available during the evening,” concluded SMMC.
Event details
Date: Thursday, August 20, 2026
Time: 6:30 PM – 9:00 PM
Location: WYCCF – Big Dining Room
Cost: Free
Registration: Not required
For more information, please contact:
SMMC: Quality and Safety Department at +1721 543-1111 ext. 2515
WYCCF: +1721 548-4431
