Pediatric Care Program

When a child has a life-limiting illness, Lightways Pediatric Hospice and Serious Illness Care Team can help.

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Hospice Care

Lightways Hospice care provides physical, emotional and spiritual support for patients with a terminal illness.

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Pediatric Care

Lightways Pediatric Care Team is here to help enhance the quality of life for your child and family.

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Serious Illness Care

Lightways helps people with advanced, chronic or life-limiting illnesses with clear-headed, practical and kind counsel to patients and family.

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Hospice and Serious Illness Care

About Lightways

Founded in 1982 as Joliet Area Community Hospice, Lightways Hospice and Serious Illness Care is an independent, nonprofit healthcare provider licensed in 11 counties in Illinois. We provide exceptional serious illness care, hospice care and grief support for adults and children.

Lightways Nursing Staff

News & Educational Resources

Understanding Advanced Directives: Why They Matter

Understanding Advanced Directives: Why They Matter

When it comes to healthcare, we often think we have all the time in the world to make decisions about our future. But what happens if we are suddenly unable to voice our wishes? This is where advanced directives come into play. If you’ve never heard of them, or you’re not sure what they entail, don’t worry. Let’s break it down in simple terms.

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Common Hospice Care Myths: What You Really Need to Know

Common Hospice Care Myths: What You Really Need to Know

Let’s dive into a topic many people find daunting or confusing: hospice care. There are so many myths floating around that it’s easy to misunderstand what hospice is about. Whether you’re considering hospice for a loved one or want to expand your knowledge, let’s clear up some common misconceptions together!

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Understanding Medicare and Insurance Coverage & Benefits for Hospice and Serious Illness Care (Palliative Care)

Understanding Medicare and Insurance Coverage & Benefits for Hospice and Serious Illness Care (Palliative Care)

When a loved one faces a serious illness or declining health, understanding hospice and palliative care insurance coverage can seem daunting. Many families worry about the financial aspects of care, questioning what Medicare, Medicaid or private insurance will cover. The good news is that hospice and palliative care services are often fully or partially covered, providing relief to families during an emotionally challenging time.

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Patients and families

Testimonials

“The total care patient/family far exceeded anything I expected. Kori Schmidt, our nurse, was outstanding, she explained everything thoroughly and gave our loved one care with compassion. Vicky, our CNA, arrived cheerfully and delivered exceptional care to my husband, with dignity. Meds, equipment were delivered punctually.”

Lightways is truly the Gold Standard for hospice care. Every person we interacted with was excellent, even the equipment delivery people. At the end, the music therapy was very comforting. Lights of Love event was so wonderful. Kudos to our nurse and CNA. They were both wonderful!

“Every member of your staff brought gentle and peaceful care to my mom. The facility itself is peaceful and provided meals, snacks and drinks for the family. The setting and natural surroundings is beautiful. No questions or concerns seemed unimportant for your staff. Family members and friends, elderly to young children were welcomed. Thank you!”

Thank You to Our 2025 Annual Sponsors