By: Lisa Lofgren, Hospice Care Manager, CHI St. Joseph’s Health
This November, as we observe Hospice Care Month, our team at CHI St. Joseph’s Health joins the nation in celebrating the deep privilege and importance of providing comfort, dignity, and peace through hospice care for individuals and their families facing life-limiting illnesses. In 2025, our Hospice Care team made 4,310 visits to 172 hospice patients receiving end-of-life care, a testament to our dedication to the community.
As the Hospice Care Manager, I often encounter misconceptions about what hospice truly is. Let me assure you, it’s not about giving up; it’s about embracing life to its fullest, no matter the circumstances. It’s about ensuring that every moment counts, filled with comfort, connection, and cherished memories.
Beyond the Medical: A Holistic Approach to Care, Our Perspective
At its heart, hospice care is a profound act of compassion. We see it daily in the eyes of our dedicated team. It goes far beyond just managing physical symptoms, offering a comprehensive and holistic approach that addresses the unique needs of the whole person – body, mind, and spirit. As we detail on our Hospice Care Services Page, this includes:
- Expert Pain and Symptom Management: Our team of doctors, nurses, and specialists are equipped with the latest knowledge and resources. They tirelessly alleviate pain and discomfort, ensuring peace and ease during a challenging time.
- Emotional and Spiritual Support: We’ve witnessed firsthand the profound impact our compassionate counselors, social workers, and chaplains have. Facing a life-limiting illness can be emotionally and spiritually taxing, and their presence offers a listening ear, guidance, and comfort to patients and their families, often unlocking a surprising sense of peace.
- Practical Assistance and Respite for Families: Caregiving can be incredibly demanding. A core part of our mission is to offer practical support. This means helping families navigate the complexities of care, providing essential respite, and even assisting with daily tasks so they can focus on simply being with their loved one.
- Bereavement Support: The journey doesn’t end with a loved one’s passing, and neither does our commitment. We are proud of our comprehensive bereavement programs which extend our embrace to families, offering solace and guidance as they grieve. It’s a testament to our long-term commitment to their well-being.
Why Hospice Care Matters: A Testament to Human Dignity, Lived Daily
Hospice care champions the fundamental right of every individual to live their final chapter with dignity, respect, and comfort. We see it every day in the empowered choices patients make and the peace they find when they can spend their precious time surrounded by love, free from the burdens of unrelenting pain and anxiety.
During Hospice Care Month, I want to shine a spotlight on the unsung heroes who embody this mission every single day:
- Our compassionate nurses, CNAs, and aides: They are the heart of our hands-on care, providing comfort with a gentle touch and unwavering kindness.
- Our dedicated physicians and nurse practitioners: They bring their medical expertise and deep empathy to each patient’s bedside, making critical decisions with care.
- Our empathetic social workers and counselors: They are masters of difficult conversations, offering invaluable emotional support and guidance.
- Our spiritual care providers: They offer solace and meaning, respectfully embracing diverse beliefs and traditions.
- Our amazing volunteers: Their selfless acts of companionship and kindness make an immeasurable difference to patients and families alike.
- And, of course, the families: They open their homes and hearts to us, allowing us to be a part of their intimate and sacred journeys. It is a privilege we do not take lightly.
Debunking Myths: Understanding the True Nature of Hospice, From Experience
From my vantage point, it’s vital to dispel common misconceptions about hospice. Hospice is not:
- Giving up hope: It’s about shifting the focus of hope from a cure to comfort, quality of life, and meaningful connections in the present.
- Only for the last few days: We’ve seen countless patients benefit from hospice for months, genuinely enhancing their quality of life for a significant period.
- Only for cancer patients: Hospice is available for anyone with a life-limiting illness, regardless of diagnosis. Our team is trained to care for a wide range of conditions.
- A financial burden: Hospice care is covered by Medicare, Medicaid, and most private insurance plans, because we believe everyone deserves this level of care.
Join Us in Celebrating!
This Hospice Care Month, I invite you to learn more about the invaluable services offered by CHI St. Joseph’s Health’s Hospice Care. Please visit our dedicated page at https://chisjh.org/services/hospice-care/ to explore the details of our program and how we can support you or a loved one.
On behalf of our entire hospice team, I encourage you to take a moment to:
- Thank a hospice worker you know. Their dedication is truly inspiring.
- Learn more about hospice care and its profound benefits.
- Consider volunteering with a local hospice program. Your time and compassion can make an immeasurable difference to others.
Hospice care is a testament to our shared humanity – a profound commitment to easing suffering, fostering connection, and honoring every life journey. This November, let’s celebrate the comfort, dignity, and peace that hospice care brings, wrapping a much-needed hug around the souls of those who need it most.