Smead, Judy RN

Hospice of Kankakee Valley, also known as HKV, provides physical, emotional, spiritual and social support services to individuals and families. It is certified by Medicare and Medicaid and is licensed by the Illinois Department of Public Health. Additionally, Hospice of Kankakee Valley is an approved provider for Blue Cross, Cigna and other private insurance plans. The organization employs registered nurses, physicians, social workers, home health aides, chaplains, bereavement support counselors, volunteers, pharmacists, and physical and occupational therapists. Founded in 1982, the facility organizes support groups and presentations for adults, children and teenagers. Hospice of Kankakee Valley is located in Bourbonnais, Ill.

Alaina Lastres is a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner who received her Doctorate of Nursing from Rush University in Chicago, Illinois. Throughout her career as a nurse, she has gained experience in both inpatient and outpatient settings and treated patients across the lifespan. She has a special interest in caring for individuals with developmental disabilities as well as child and adolescent psychiatry. A passion for promoting holistic care and reducing the stigma associated with mental illness drives her career.