An inspiring volunteer recently shared a touching story with me. She walked into our William J. Riley Memorial Residence for her shift and was introduced to a new patient. Neither of them could have imagined that a simple conversation would create a memory they would both cherish. The care team shared that the patient hadn't been eating much for quite some time. Our volunteer gently sat beside her and asked, "Is there anything you'd like for breakfast?" The patient smiled sof

Last night at Ravinia, as I prepared to see one of my favorite performers once again, I found myself transported back to the very first time I heard him. I remember it like it was yesterday. It was 1989. I was a 15-year-old freshman at Bishop Noll Institute when I bought the soundtrack to When Harry Met Sally. There was this young artist named Harry Connick Jr. who performed a song called "It Had to Be You." I was instantly hooked. I quickly discovered he had released an earl

Monsignor Joseph Semancik is a truly special leader. I first met Monsignor when I was a kid in East Chicago, and even then it was clear that he was a man deeply devoted to Christ and to serving others. He has always held people accountable while leading with integrity, compassion, and a steadfast commitment to his word. Monsignor is also one of the founding board members of Hospice of the Calumet Area, helping shape an organization that continues to provide compassionate care

What an inspiring afternoon celebrating the profound work of our Friends of Hospice, the dedicated fundraising auxiliary of Hospice of the Calumet Area. On Thursday, February 12, Friends President Courtney Markovich reflected on her journey and the path that led her to HCA, “a calling” that has grown into remarkable leadership and meaningful impact for families across our community. On that inspiring morning into the afternoon, Courtney and Hospice Artisans Director Lydia Der

At Hospice of the Calumet Area (HCA), a special tradition happens every year on the first Sunday after Thanksgiving. For the past 25 years, a dedicated group of volunteers transforms the interior and grounds of HCA’s William J. Riley Memorial Residence (WJR) into an inspiring and festive holiday retreat. Our family has taken part in this tradition since I joined eight years ago, and it has become the perfect way to begin our holiday season. When the holidays start to feel com

Hospice of the Calumet Area Bereavement Facilitator Sarah Ticich shares an article by Dr. Alan Wolfelt. The piece offers guidance, tools, and gentle approaches for talking to grieving children about death focusing on helping them process their emotions while reminding them that they are never alone in their grief.

Joy with me, Peggy Glennie and Linda Manes on Friday morning. Lake Central homecoming queen and king Joy Wozniak and Kyle Kujawa wear...

Jacob Catizone and his girlfriend Lacy Edwards present Andy Graziano with the Best In Show trophy. Last year, 20-year-old member of...

Butterflies in the Park: A Cherishing Life Fest was held Sunday, Sept. 7 at Halls of St. George in Schererville, IN. One of my favorite...

My grandfather, Isabel Joseph Porras, was my best buddy growing up. He was always laughing, always joking, always pulling some kind of...

If you’ve ever listened to Joel Osteen, you know how he starts: a lighthearted story, a little humor, and then the line, “Today I want to...

Photo Credit: Damian Rico Did you know that each year on Memorial Day, a National Moment of Remembrance takes place at 3:00 PM local...

At Hospice of the Calumet Area, compassion is more than a value—it’s a way of life. And few embody that spirit more fully than Mike...

At Hospice of the Calumet Area, we believe that every life is precious, and every journey deserves to be honored with dignity,...

Mom jokingly looks for Dad in the audience to apologize for her new flame Smokey. Long before Cinco de Mayo became a celebration of...

Leo Hobbins brings 100 cans of Campbell's Soup to Hospice of the Calumet Area's William J. Riley Memorial Residence. From left, HCA aide...

Part Two in the Series... Spring into Support: Thoughtful Ways to Help a Caregiver This Season As the weather warms and the days grow...

Part One in a Series... When we learn that a friend is in need, our natural reaction is simple—we want to help. But sometimes, knowing...

My name is Anthony Rico, and I am 14 years old. I attend Clark Middle School in St. John, Indiana, and I live in Schererville with my...

Deacon Joe Codespoti and his lovely wife Theresa baptize our son Anthony in 2010. Photo: Monica "Mona" Rico It’s been nearly five years...