Grief Support

Grief support is offered to all Lightways Hospice and Serious Illness families and extends to anyone in the community in need of our services. Services include individual and family grief counseling, grief support groups, workshops and special events, grief education and a summer day camp. All of these services are available free of charge.

Hospice & Serious Illness Care in Joliet & Northern Illinois

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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

How Serious Illness (Palliative) Care Empowers Those Living with Breast Cancer

How Serious Illness (Palliative) Care Empowers Those Living with Breast Cancer

Every October, the world turns pink for Breast Cancer Awareness Month — a time to celebrate survivors, remember those we have lost, and renew our commitment to early detection and comprehensive care. Yet behind the ribbons and fundraising walks lies another essential part of the breast cancer journey — one that deserves more attention: Serious Illness Care, also known as palliative care.

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The Heart of Hospice: How Volunteers Make the Difference

The Heart of Hospice: How Volunteers Make the Difference

Volunteering with a nonprofit hospice organization is not just about giving your time—it’s about making a profound difference in someone’s life. At Lightways Hospice and Serious Illness Care, our volunteers are an essential part of the care team, bringing comfort, dignity, and connection to patients and families during one of life’s most tender chapters.

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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