Northern Illinois Hospice

04/17/2026

Get your ducks in a row! A little planning and decision-making now, could save your family from a lot of struggles ahead!

Today is National Healthcare Decisions Day! It’s a day set aside each year to educate and empower the public and healthcare providers to take part in important advance care planning.

Without advanced directives, medical personnel rely on family members to determine what a patient's wishes might be. That’s a tough spot to be in. But if you act today, many of these difficult decisions can be avoided in the future.

To learn more, visit https://theconversationproject.org/ on .

04/16/2026

There was plenty of food for thought! Thanks to everyone who came out for yesterday’s Northern Illinois Hospice Foundation’s Lunch & Learn.

It was both educational and inspirational. Guests enjoyed hearing Jenny Ramsby, RN, CHPN, share the many innovative ways our agency provides support to help caregivers feel more empowered. She also provided self-care tips and strategies on navigating vital conversations about what matters most.

Stay tuned for more sessions in this important series!

04/14/2026

Music heals! It’s true. That’s why music therapy is one of the integrative therapies we offer here at Northern Illinois Hospice.

It’s Music Therapy Week and the perfect time to thank our wonderful licensed professional music therapists Jen Conley and Mallory Pannell. These two help our patients across Northern Illinois in significant ways through their amazing musical gifts. Music helps ease anxiety, increase relaxation, and brings joy to patients and their families. Music and other integrative/rehabilitation therapies are funded through generous donations to the Northern Illinois Hospice Foundation.

Thank you again, Jen and Mallory, for the difference you make in so many lives! &SoMuchMore

04/12/2026

We love our pets! Today is National Pet Day and the perfect time to call attention to them.

From a wagging tail to a gentle purr, these furry friends make such a difference in our lives. We’re so glad to offer pet therapy that brings smiles and even a level of healing to our patients.

We’d love to see a favorite photo of your pet in the comments below!

04/10/2026

Happy Volunteer Month! We’re so grateful for all those who give their time, energy, and heart to make a difference here at Northern Illinois Hospice. Their dedication inspires us every day!

Thank you, volunteers—we couldn’t do what we do without you!

04/09/2026

Hospice care emphasizes the importance of caring for your loved one's physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being, but how do we do that? Read our latest blog to learn more about how our care plans honor a patient's wishes.

Learn how hospice care plans are designed to honor patients wishes through personalized support for physical, emotional, and spiritual needs.

04/08/2026

Hooray for the Forest City Jack and Jill Teens! They recently dropped by with a check for $1,405 from proceeds they earned through a gourmet snack fundraiser.

Pictured here are Stephanie Meier (Foundation Executive Director) with local chapter members. Pictured from left to right: Saniya, Kimoni, Kamden, Langston (Teen Foundation Chair), Isaiah, Nora Clapsaddle (Northern Illinois Hospice Director of Clinical Services), and Jedediah Cantrell (Lead Teen Advisor).

The money these teens raised will go a long way in helping our patients and families. Thanks for all your support, Forest City Chapter of Jack and Jill of America, Inc Teens!

04/05/2026

Happy Easter to you and your family!

04/03/2026

Caring for a loved one isn’t easy—but you’re not alone! Explore The Reading Room, our new caregiver support hub, and you’ll find comfort, guidance, and strength.

Get more information on What is an Advanced Directive at northernillinoishospice.org/the-reading-room.

04/02/2026

As a caregiver, you know that safety and comfort are the top priorities in hospice. Check out our most recent blog to learn tips to help keep you and your loved one safe during this time. hnorthernillinoishospice.org/safety-tips-for-in-home-hospice-caregivers/

Learn essential safety tips for in-home hospice caregivers to help keep your loved one safe, comfortable, and supported each day.

04/01/2026

Be in the know! Here’s the latest issue of our Perspective newsletter! It it you’ll find inspirational stories, upcoming support groups, a shout out to our amazing volunteers, and much more.

Check out the current edition of Perspective here: https://northernillinoishospice.org/give/

03/30/2026

Our docs are awesome! It’s National Doctors’ Day and the perfect time to give a shout-out to our physicians for all they do each day to help our patients, families, and team. Thank you!