21st International Congress on Palliative Care taking place in Montreal

The 21st International Congress on Palliative Care is underway in Montreal.

This year’s event began Oct. 18 and will continue till Oct.21 at the Palais des Congrès.

Around 1,700 people involved in the field of palliative care are attending. A total of 57 countries are represented.

Playing an important role in this year’s congress is the West Island Palliative Care Residence.

Four staff members from the residence are set to deliver presentations at the event.

“The West Island Palliative residence is a pride in this city and certainly exemplifies palliative care at its best,” Dr. Bernard Lapointe, chairperson of the congress, said.

Tweet This Click to share quote on Twitter: "The West Island Palliative residence is a pride in this city and certainly exemplifies palliative care at its best," Dr. Bernard Lapointe, chairperson of the congress, said.

Wednesday’s event has Kent Nagano as its opening speaker.

The music director for the Montreal Symphony Orchestra will speak about the importance of music in palliative care.

“Music is key to the care we offer,” Lapointe said. “Through music you can express your fears, your sadness, your joy. Music is healing.”

Tweet This Click to share quote on Twitter: "Music is key to the care we offer," Lapointe said. "Through music you can express your fears, your sadness, your joy. Music is healing."

The event looks to bring those involved in palliative care together to share experiences and exchange ideas.