Pediatric Palliative Care
The Journeys Program
Albany Medical Center’s “Journeys” program provides support and services for families who are facing one of life’s most inconceivable journeys: caring for a child with a debilitating, life-threatening or terminal medical condition.
We offer complete medical, psychosocial and spiritual palliative care aimed at lessening a child’s pain. Our goal is to help the child manage symptoms and negative feelings while focusing on their quality of life. Our specialists strive to provide the best medical management with the least interruption to daily life.
We also provide emotional support to the entire family during this time. This requires specialized approaches to coping and grief for everyone involved.
Care Throughout the Region
Journeys is part of the Bernard & Millie Duker Children's Hospital at Albany Medical Center, the region's only children's hospital.
To speak with the Palliative Care team at Albany Medical Center, call 518-262-5636.
Learn more about our palliative care teams at Glens Falls Hospital and through Saratoga Medical Group – Palliative Care.
Our team at Columbia Memorial Health works closely with The Community Hospice to provide patients with comfort and dignity in the final stages of life.
Services We Offer
The Journeys program focuses on symptom control, relief of suffering, and providing the best quality of life for our patients. We work to address the physical, emotional, social and spiritual needs of patients and their families.
Our program offers:
- Advanced care planning
- Bereavement support
- Care coordination
- End of life care
- Family support
- Pain and symptom management
- Staff support
Brave Will Foundation: The Brave Will Foundation was established in 2009 by Matt and Tammy Hladun in memory of their son, Willem Bernard. Since then, the foundation has provided funding critical to the success of the Journeys program.
Tyler DeMarco Foundation: The Tyler DeMarco Foundation is motivated by the love, compassion, and determination that Tyler demonstrated in helping children who are fighting for their lives! Tyler battled four years to win the fight against Medulloblastoma.
Maddie's Mark Foundation: Maddie’s Mark Foundation is dedicated to helping children and families enjoy their "best days ever." Founded in memory of Madeline Musto, who battled a brain tumor, the foundation's goals are a reflection of Maddie's spirit and outlook on life.
Myles of Smyles Foundation: Myles of Smyles provides services and support to families who are facing life-threatening challenges by putting happy faces in needed places. The foundation celebrates the life of its namesake, Myles McAdoo.
Amazing Gracie's Gift: This foundation is dedicated to providing support, hope and memories to families with children under the age of 2 ½ fighting pediatric cancer or a life threatening illness.
American Academy of Hospice & Palliative Medicine: The academy is dedicated to advancing hospice and palliative medicine and improving the care of patients with life-threatening or serious conditions.
Center to Advance Palliative Care: The center is a national organization dedicated to increasing the availability of quality palliative care for people facing serious illness.
Hospice & Palliative Care Association of New York State: The association represents hospice and palliative care programs, allied organizations and individuals that are interested in the development and growth of quality, comprehensive end-of-life services.
National Hospice & Palliative Care Organization: This organization advocates for the terminally sick and their families. It develops public and professional educational programs and materials to enhance understanding and availability of hospice and palliative care.
