Making a choice to transition to hospice is a big step for any family, but especially so for families with children who have life-threatening illnesses. It can be hard to imagine a child at the beginning of their life as being appropriate for hospice care. However, kids need hospice too. For some children, their complex medical diagnoses or chronic illness are such that cure focused treatments are no longer successful. When this happens, children deserve supportive care so they do not have to remain hospitalized. Currently, in the Omaha area there are minimal options for pediatric families. Because of this, Endless Journey has started a pediatric hospice program to support the youngest patients in our community. When working with pediatric hospice patients, there is a need to provide support for multiple family members at once. The team provides direct medical care in the home for the patient, emotional support for the caregivers, and developmentally appropriate care for any siblings. This compassionate, family-centered care includes connecting families with community organizations to help provide meaningful experiences and facilitate memory making. At Endless Journey, the team knows that time is a resource we cannot create more of so we aim to make the most of each moment. Pediatric hospice is unique in that families can receive hospice care while also still engaging in curative treatments; this is called concurrent care. Under the affordable care act (sec. 2302) in the state of Nebraska, children aged 19 years and younger are eligible to receive this concurrent care. Because of this, Endless Journey has fostered partnerships with the pediatric hospital systems in the area to ensure that our in-home hospice support is well coordinated with the in-clinic plans of the primary medical teams. Making the choice for hospice has historically had a connotation of giving up, but in practice, hospice is looking towards living well with the focus of what is most important to the family. Editors Note: This article was submitted by Katie Ransdell, MS, CCLS, Bereavement Coordinator & Certified Child Life Specialist with Endless Journey Hospice where she can be reached at 402-800-8145  

How would it feel to walk through the world and be fully accepted for who you are? In all sectors of our work and lives we interact with others; connection is one of the greatest gifts of being human. Within each interaction we can validate, learn and value one another. We can be intentional with the words we use and respond with empathy. The foundation of embracing an individuals authenticity is love. From there it is helpful to understand the meaning of diversity, equity and inclusion.Diversity empowers people by respecting and appreciating life experiences and beliefs. The way our differences add to perspectives, world views, and those we encounter throughout our journey in life.Equity recognizes that we do not all start from the same place socially, economically, or physically. It acknowledges adjustments need to be made for imbalances.Inclusion allows everyone to feel valued and respected as an individual. A space where different groups and perspectives are integrated into an environment.  Infusing these values into hospice care allows others to be fully seen and accepted in their divine humanity as they complete the transition from this life. Authenticity should be the standard of care for those we serve and lead. You may be asking; how do I begin this practice? It starts with being authentic about who you are. When we are our true selves, we allow others to show up fully and thrive in their gifts and talents. When humans are honored and held with respect it is felt throughout an organization, a community and life.As you walk through this world, my encouragement is that you greet each other from a place of love and acceptance. That you see the divine humanity in each individual and honor them.Byline: Editors Note: This article was submitted by Heather Holmes, Chief Product Officer with Endless Journey Hospice she can be reached at 402-208-4091 or by email at heather@endlessjourney.com