About Kappy

Motivated by the deaths of her mother and husband, Kappy Flanders was driven to ensure that everyone could discover that a good death is possible, and accessible, for them and their loved ones. She worked tirelessly with McGill University on a number of initiatives, both in higher education and to engage the public. These included the establishment of the first Chair in Palliative Medicine in North America, and the creation of the Council on Palliative Care, whose aim is to educate and inform people on access to end-of-life care.

Without a university education herself, Kappy was passionate in her desire to facilitate lifelong education and interaction between the scholarly community and the general public. The Kappy Lectures reflect her lasting commitment to unite the university and broader communities in an exploration of subjects that affect us all.

Established by her daughters, Susan, Judith, and Elle, The Kappy Lectures are her legacy, honouring her unswerving belief that talking about death means talking about life.

Press

Devon Phillips, “Kappy Flanders (1938–2020): Advocate, educator and social activist Kappy Flanders on the ongoing need for public education about palliative care,” Palliative Care McGill.

Lisa Fitterman, “Palliative-care advocate Kappy Flanders helped develop a blueprint for a good death,” The Globe and Mail, July 9, 2020.