End Of Life Distress (EOLD) is a pervasive clinical challenge that impacts patient, caregiver and provider alike, and for which there are very few tools available. Refractory existential distress, anxiety and depression are common symptoms for patients diagnosed with a life-limiting illness. Conventional treatments such as medications and traditional psychotherapy have limited efficacy and can be challenging to administer in a time limited context. Psilocybin Assisted Therapy is an emerging evidence-based treatment which may help relieve these difficult to manage symptoms. We are fortunate in the Sea to Sky corridor to have a team of passionate and experienced health care clinicians working in this area who have additional training and experience in the use of Psilocybin Assisted Therapy for treatment of refractory depression. The team includes a psychiatrist (Dr. Wynn), palliative care physicians (Dr. Miller and Dr. Piper), registered clinical counsellors (Dr. Dennstedt and Mr. Payne), and a registered nurse with focus in oncology and ketamine treatment for difficult-to-treat depression (Ms. Voelker). This program operates as an independent under the auspices of the Sea to Sky Hospice Society. The team is aiming to offer this treatment to patients in the Sea to Sky corridor who are eligible through Health Canada’s special access program. Psychedelic literally translates to ‘mind manifesting’ or ‘soul revealing’. Psychedelics are a bridge to deeper understanding, connection and transformation. They are a means of accessing deeper knowledge of understanding, are a tool for self-growth and help people experience a profound sense of wisdom. These psychedelic experiences can encompass gratitude, acceptance and peace which are especially important when experiencing death anxiety and distress. Psilocybin Assisted Therapy offers patients the opportunity to find meaning, comfort, peace, ease distress, resolve trauma, live in the present and find contentment in the time they have left.

The donation received from 100 Women Whistler will support patients to participate in the gold standard protocol for Psilocybin Assisted Therapy for End Of Life Distress, including comprehensive medical and psychiatric assessments, application to Health Canada’s special access program, rigorous preparation and integration therapy, the dosing session, and psycho-education for patient and caregiver. These funds will help bridge the cost to patients not covered through MSP, extended health benefits and private pay. A portion of the money will also go towards creating a group-based program focusing on the psychospiritual aspect of living well with a life limiting illness and approaching death with peace and dignity. It will be group based and online for patients and caregivers, offering discussion, teachings, mindfulness practices and support.