Pediatric Hospice and Palliative Care

No one wants to see a child in pain, and when a child is facing a serious, life-threatening illness, it is especially difficult for the parents and family. Whether dealing with side effects of the illness or treatments, parents and caregivers have so much to learn and do for their child.   Joliet Area Community Hospice (JACH) can help with their dedicated Pediatric Hospice and Palliative Care Team.   The pediatric team of physician, pediatric nurse, social worker, chaplain and complementary therapists assist children from birth to 21 years old and their families by providing care wherever the child calls home – usually the family’s home.

The goal is to relieve the child’s pain and discomfort, control symptoms and help the child and family maintain the highest possible quality of life. The physical, developmental, psychological, social and spiritual needs and issues of the child and his/her family are met through an individualized plan of care.

JACH’s Pediatric Team understands the strain of caring for a sick child and the toll it can take on family life. They do not take the place of the parents/caregiver, but are available to provide assessment of the child’s condition; work with the child’s specialist to provide pain and symptom control: and teach, support, and assist in whatever way will help to lighten the load for the child and family. When needed, grief support is available to all family members and Loss of a Child workshops are available during the year.

Joliet Area Community Hospice accepts children and families who qualify without regard for their ability to pay for the care. To inquire about JACH’s Pediatric Hospice and Palliative Care Program or for information about the services of JACH, please call us at 815.740.4104.   JACH is a proud United Way agency.