The Course
Living away from your home country comes with its own set of challenges, and being prepared for emergencies should be at the top of every Lake Chapala expat’s to-do list! This course is designed to give you the tools and know-how to create a solid set of emergency planning documents, so that if the unexpected happens – think “hit by the bus” scenarios – you're not left in a scramble.
We’ll cover crucial topics like healthcare directives, emergency contacts, backup plans for your pets, and ensuring access to important documents. You'll learn a bit about the legal and medical systems here and how to create a reliable support network.
This hands-on course will not only prepare you for the worst but will also provide peace of mind for both you and your loved ones. By the end of our sessions, you'll have a personalized emergency plan that fits your unique Lake Chapala lifestyle. With practical exercises, checklists, computer-fillable forms and real-world examples, we'll ensure that you're equipped to face any "bus" that comes your way. So, whether it's a minor mishap or a major mayhem, you’ll be the cool-headed global citizen who’s got it all under control.
Course Begins August 10, 2026!
Zoom Sessions each Thursday morning at 10am
August 13, 20, 27 and September 3 & 10
(See the How This Course Works section below for more details.)
What you will learn
When I started crafting this course, I put myself in your shoes, considering all the uncertainties that come with living abroad, including those I have faced in my years away from the US. I carefully organized it to give you a clear, step-by-step guide on how to be prepared for any emergency you might face while far from home.
This course packed with practical advice, local insights, and a solid set of planning documents that will make sure you're never caught off guard. Think of it as your personal safety net, helping you navigate unexpected situations with ease and confidence.
And the best part? It's designed to be super easy to follow, so you can get on with enjoying your Lake Chapala living adventure, knowing you've got most everything covered. Now that's some peace of mind, right?
Example Curriculum
How This Course Works
Each week, I'll send you an email introducing the topics for the week, the list of documents and information to gather, and the documents for the week. It's fine to work ahead if you wish, but I suggest that you trust the process and allow yourself to take this in smaller bites throughout our time together.
The Paper Chase
- Every week, you will need to locate specific types of information. I call this the Paper Chase. I will admit that this is my least favorite part of the process, as I seriously dislike paperwork and filing stuff. That said, locating the papers and the information are the price of admission for having a good plan in place, so just grin and bear it! Okay?
- Once you have the documentation for the week, you also have the opportunity to add the original documents (or copies) to an Emergency Planning binder, notebook, or file system of your choice. And when you're done, you will have the satisfaction of knowing exactly where to find this stuff in your home!
Fillable Forms
- One thing that makes this process easier are a set of downloadable, computer-fillable forms created by several members of the Lake Chapala End of Life Care Community. (You can visit that website here.)
- You can, of course, print the forms and fill them out by hand if that is easier for you.
Field Trips/Appointments to Make
- If there are specific actions that you need to take that require outside help, they will be listed in this section of the Overview.
- This could be things like contacting a funeral home for pre-authorizing cremation or burial or an appointment with a Notario for a Will or Medical Directive.
Weekly Online (Zoom) Sessions
- We will also have a two-hour online session each week that gives me the opportunity to explain the reasoning behind each of the forms and to give you examples of how these forms will be useful in different situations.
- Zoom sessions will be held on Thursday mornings from 10am - Noon, Chapala Time.
- You are welcome to listen to the conversation, work on your person forms and ask your personal questions during this two-hour session. A link to the replay of each session will be in the classroom a day or two after the meeting.
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For this course, Zoom Q&A sessions will be held on
August 13, 20, 27 and September 3 & 10
Your Fees Support the Lake Chapala End of LIfe Care Community - Thank You!
All fees paid by students of this course support the activities of the Lake Chapala End of Life Care organization. We provide in-person support for members of our community who are at the end of their lives,an informational website, and educational courses. Your class fees help us help you!
Learn more at our Website. Be sure to check the Resources page for valuable information.
Your instructor
Shelly Stokes has been living in Mexico’s Lake Chapala area since 2018, more than long enough to experience a number of emergency events of her own and those around her. Having navigated the complexities of expatriate life, from setting up home in an unfamiliar territory to managing unexpected crises, Shelly's firsthand experience equips her with a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities faced by those who choose to live away from their home countries.
Beyond her practical expertise, Shelly's passion for teaching and helping others shines through in her role as an educator. She designed the "Emergency Planning for Expats" course to empower others with the knowledge and tools needed to prepare for unforeseen events—a course fostered from her earnest belief that being well-prepared can make a transformative difference in the life (and death) of every expat living at Lakeside. Shelly's engaging teaching style, coupled with relatable anecdotes and practical strategies, ensure that the course resonates and has a meaningful impact on those looking to navigate their international journey with confidence and poise.