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A Walkabout With Grief – October 11, 2025

Join Northern Illinois Hospice for A Walkabout With Grief on October 11, 2025 at Sycamore Lake Rotary Park.

A Walkabout With Grief is a group for semi-active adults who are grieving the loss of a loved one. You’ll experience 45 minutes of walking with 15 minutes of discussion at the start and end of each session. It’s a beautiful setting with a paved walking path, intermittent shade, and benches available along the path to sit and view the small lake. The natural surroundings offer a peaceful space for reflection and connection with others who understand the complexities of grief.

Walkabouts are a symbolic journey and rite of passage. In grief, we walk a journey not chosen by us, but one that demonstrates our deep love. Grief is not a problem to be solved. Instead, it’s an expression to be lived and a life passage from who we used to be into who we are becoming, all while honoring our beloved. Sharing this experience with others can provide comfort and a sense of community during a time that often feels isolating.

Part of the path has some elevation. You will want to pack water, a snack, and dress appropriately, including good walking shoes. Feel free to bring a walking stick or anything that supports your comfort. If there’s rain in the forecast, the group might be cancelled for safety reasons, but updates will be provided as needed.

No registration required. Just come on out and walkabout!

Saturday, October 11, 2025 (Second Saturday of the Month)
9:30 AM – 11:00 AM
Sycamore Lake Rotary Park
400 N Cross St, Sycamore, IL 60178

In addition to A Walkabout With Grief, Northern Illinois Hospice offers a variety of other grief support groups tailored to different needs and communities, including:

  • Bridge of Hope, A Bereavement Care Group – Rockford
  • Bridge of Hope, A Bereavement Care Group – Sycamore
  • Memorial Pillow Workshops
  • Tranquil Tuesdays

For more information about these programs and how to register, please contact Northern Illinois Hospice at 815-398-0500.

We hope you will join us for A Walkabout With Grief on October 11, 2025 to take a meaningful step forward in your healing journey, connect with others who understand, and find comfort in nature’s quiet presence.

A Walkabout With Grief – September 13, 2025

Join Northern Illinois Hospice for A Walkabout With Grief on September 13, 2025 at Sycamore Lake Rotary Park.

A Walkabout With Grief is a group for semi-active adults who are grieving the loss of a loved one. You’ll experience 45 minutes of walking with 15 minutes of discussion at the start and end of each session. It’s a beautiful setting with a paved walking path, intermittent shade, and benches available along the path to sit and view the small lake. The natural surroundings offer a peaceful space for reflection and connection with others who understand the complexities of grief.

Walkabouts are a symbolic journey and rite of passage. In grief, we walk a journey not chosen by us, but one that demonstrates our deep love. Grief is not a problem to be solved. Instead, it’s an expression to be lived and a life passage from who we used to be into who we are becoming, all while honoring our beloved. Sharing this experience with others can provide comfort and a sense of community during a time that often feels isolating.

Part of the path has some elevation. You will want to pack water, a snack, and dress appropriately, including good walking shoes. Feel free to bring a walking stick or anything that supports your comfort. If there’s rain in the forecast, the group might be cancelled for safety reasons, but updates will be provided as needed.

No registration required. Just come on out and walkabout!

Saturday, September 13, 2025 (Second Saturday of the Month)
9:30 AM – 11:00 AM
Sycamore Lake Rotary Park
400 N Cross St, Sycamore, IL 60178

In addition to A Walkabout With Grief, Northern Illinois Hospice offers a variety of other grief support groups tailored to different needs and communities, including:

  • Bridge of Hope, A Bereavement Care Group – Rockford
  • Bridge of Hope, A Bereavement Care Group – Sycamore
  • Memorial Pillow Workshops
  • Tranquil Tuesdays

For more information about these programs and how to register, please contact Northern Illinois Hospice at 815-398-0500.

We hope you will join us for A Walkabout With Grief on September 13, 2025 to take a meaningful step forward in your healing journey, connect with others who understand, and find comfort in nature’s quiet presence.

Tranquil Tuesdays – September 2, 2025

Grief can sometimes feel overwhelming and isolating, making it difficult to find peace or a way forward. Nature offers a gentle, restorative space where we can break free from the cycle of stress and sorrow. Northern Illinois Hospice invites you to join us for Tranquil Tuesdays on September 2, 2025, a free weekly grief support group held in the beautiful surroundings of Anderson Japanese Gardens. Beginning June 3, 2025 until September 2, 2025, every Tuesday from 10:30 AM to 12:00 PM we will come together to explore the grief in our lives and discover new ways to grow through sharing our stories of loss.

Each session takes place rain or shine at the Pavilion in the middle of the garden. This peaceful setting encourages reflection and connection, allowing participants to experience healing in a supportive, natural environment. Whether you are coping with a recent loss or continuing your journey with grief, this group offers a safe space to express your feelings and find comfort among others who understand.

Tuesday, September 2, 2025 (and every Tuesday)
10:30 AM – NOON
Anderson Japanese Gardens
318 Spring Creek Road, Rockford

The event is free to attend, but pre-registration is required. Please check in at the Visitor’s Center upon arrival to receive your entry sticker. Anderson Japanese Gardens is located at 318 Spring Creek Road in Rockford.

In addition to Tranquil Tuesdays, Northern Illinois Hospice offers a variety of other grief support groups tailored to different needs and communities, including:

  • Bridge of Hope, A Bereavement Care Group – Rockford
  • Bridge of Hope, A Bereavement Care Group – Sycamore
  • A Walkabout With Grief
  • Memorial Pillow Workshop

For more information about these programs and how to register, please contact Northern Illinois Hospice at 815-398-0500.

We hope you will join us for Tranquil Tuesdays on September 2, 2025 to find peace, connection, and hope on this path through grief.

Tranquil Tuesdays

Tranquil Tuesdays – August 26, 2025

Grief can sometimes feel overwhelming and isolating, making it difficult to find peace or a way forward. Nature offers a gentle, restorative space where we can break free from the cycle of stress and sorrow. Northern Illinois Hospice invites you to join us for Tranquil Tuesdays on August 26, 2025, a free weekly grief support group held in the beautiful surroundings of Anderson Japanese Gardens. Beginning June 3, 2025 until September 2, 2025, every Tuesday from 10:30 AM to 12:00 PM we will come together to explore the grief in our lives and discover new ways to grow through sharing our stories of loss.

Each session takes place rain or shine at the Pavilion in the middle of the garden. This peaceful setting encourages reflection and connection, allowing participants to experience healing in a supportive, natural environment. Whether you are coping with a recent loss or continuing your journey with grief, this group offers a safe space to express your feelings and find comfort among others who understand.

Tuesday, August 26, 2025 (and every Tuesday)
10:30 AM – NOON
Anderson Japanese Gardens
318 Spring Creek Road, Rockford

The event is free to attend, but pre-registration is required. Please check in at the Visitor’s Center upon arrival to receive your entry sticker. Anderson Japanese Gardens is located at 318 Spring Creek Road in Rockford.

In addition to Tranquil Tuesdays, Northern Illinois Hospice offers a variety of other grief support groups tailored to different needs and communities, including:

  • Bridge of Hope, A Bereavement Care Group – Rockford
  • Bridge of Hope, A Bereavement Care Group – Sycamore
  • A Walkabout With Grief
  • Memorial Pillow Workshop

For more information about these programs and how to register, please contact Northern Illinois Hospice at 815-398-0500.

We hope you will join us for Tranquil Tuesdays on August 26, 2025 to find peace, connection, and hope on this path through grief.

Tranquil Tuesdays

Tranquil Tuesdays – August 19, 2025

Grief can sometimes feel overwhelming and isolating, making it difficult to find peace or a way forward. Nature offers a gentle, restorative space where we can break free from the cycle of stress and sorrow. Northern Illinois Hospice invites you to join us for Tranquil Tuesdays on August 19, 2025, a free weekly grief support group held in the beautiful surroundings of Anderson Japanese Gardens. Beginning June 3, 2025 until September 2, 2025, every Tuesday from 10:30 AM to 12:00 PM we will come together to explore the grief in our lives and discover new ways to grow through sharing our stories of loss.

Each session takes place rain or shine at the Pavilion in the middle of the garden. This peaceful setting encourages reflection and connection, allowing participants to experience healing in a supportive, natural environment. Whether you are coping with a recent loss or continuing your journey with grief, this group offers a safe space to express your feelings and find comfort among others who understand.

Tuesday, August 19, 2025 (and every Tuesday)
10:30 AM – NOON
Anderson Japanese Gardens
318 Spring Creek Road, Rockford

The event is free to attend, but pre-registration is required. Please check in at the Visitor’s Center upon arrival to receive your entry sticker. Anderson Japanese Gardens is located at 318 Spring Creek Road in Rockford.

In addition to Tranquil Tuesdays, Northern Illinois Hospice offers a variety of other grief support groups tailored to different needs and communities, including:

  • Bridge of Hope, A Bereavement Care Group – Rockford
  • Bridge of Hope, A Bereavement Care Group – Sycamore
  • A Walkabout With Grief
  • Memorial Pillow Workshop

For more information about these programs and how to register, please contact Northern Illinois Hospice at 815-398-0500.

We hope you will join us for Tranquil Tuesdays on August 19, 2025 to find peace, connection, and hope on this path through grief.

Tranquil Tuesdays

What Are the Benefits of Hospice Care?

inBlog, Community/News
Benefits of Hospice Care - Northern Illinois Hospice

Deciding to enroll your loved one in hospice care is one of the most challenging decisions you will face as a caregiver. Hospice provides peace of mind by ensuring your loved one receives the specialized end-of-life care they need, whether they have cancer, heart disease, or any other condition requiring comfort care. With a focus on compassionate care and enhancing the quality of life for people of all ages, hospice brings comfort and dignity to your loved one while offering much-needed support for caregivers. Understanding the many benefits of hospice care can help alleviate your concerns as a caregiver and provide peace of mind during this difficult time.

 

Compassionate and personalized care for patients 

Hospice care recognizes that each health problem and illness comes with its own set of unique challenges. Each person’s experience is deeply personal and our care reflects that with our individualized care plans. 

With a focus on compassion, hospice addresses not only physical needs but also emotional and spiritual well-being. Collaborating with an experienced team will help patients receive the appropriate level of end-of-life care.

 

Support for caregivers

Hospice also provides essential support for caregivers. Social workers offer grief counseling and connect families with valuable resources to support yourself and your loved one. 

Being a caregiver can be overwhelming at times. Hospice staff can help coordinate the delivery of medical supplies, assist with care planning, and help streamline tasks. Additional support allows families to focus on spending quality time together without the added stress. 

Beyond immediate support, hospice equips families with the tools they need to navigate this journey with confidence and compassion. With expert guidance and compassionate education about end-of-life care, families are empowered to make thoughtful decisions and ensure their loved ones feel supported. 

 

Enhancing quality of life 

While hospice is often associated with end-of-life support, its primary goal is to improve the quality of life at every stage of the journey.  By emphasizing comfort care through effective pain and symptom management, patients can spend more quality time with their loved ones. 

Hospice care prioritizes dignity, independence, and comfort to ensure patients’ needs are met. Your loved one’s hospice team will work with your loved one to create a personalized care plan that aligns with their preferences and goals to help make the most of every day. 

Through this compassionate approach, hospice care ensures that every moment is lived with dignity, comfort, and a focus on enhancing the quality of life for patients and their families.

 

Northern Illinois Hospice is here for you! 

At Northern Illinois Hospice, we make it a priority to honor the life and wishes of every hospice patient. Our experienced team of healthcare professionals, social workers, and volunteers is here to ensure your loved one is comfortable and supported, providing compassionate, personalized care. 

With services ranging from expert medical care, integrated therapies, medication management, and emotional and spiritual support, you can feel confident in the long-term level of care that your loved one receives. 

Whether your loved one needs in-home assistance or support in a long-term care facility like a nursing home, we’re here to help wherever they are. 

If you want to learn more about our services or how we can help you navigate end-of-life care for your loved ones, call us today at (815) 398-0500. 

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