Support Groups and Resources


Adult Diabetes Support Group

The Adult Diabetes support group is for anyone in the general public who has diabetes. Our group meets the first Wednesday of every month in the Conference Dining Room in the lower level of FHN Memorial Hospital in Freeport, unless otherwise noted. Participation is free, and no referral is needed. No advance registration is required.

Meetings are facilitated by FHN Diabetes Educators if not specified otherwise. For more information, view the 2024 schedule or call 815-599-6253.

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Arthritis Support Group

For more information, call 815-599-7437 or email jroach@fhn.org.


Breastfeeding Support Group

Bring your baby and join area moms at the Freeport Public Library, 100 E. Douglas Street, at 2:00 p.m. on the 2nd and 4th Thursday of each month. Share knowledge, build a support system, and gain up-to-date breastfeeding information.

Discussions will be led by lactation experts from the FHN/SCHD Breastfeeding Task Force and broach many topics including postpartum adjustment, feeding, burping, sleeping, gas and colic, normal newborn behavior, soothing fussy babies and breastfeeding.

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Cancer Support Resources

Look Good... Feel Better

Founded in 1989, this is an American Cancer Society program supported by corporate donors that teaches female cancer patients beauty techniques to help restore their appearance and self-image during chemotherapy and radiation treatments. Volunteer beauty professionals lead small groups, usually consisting of 6-10 women, for practical, hands-on experience. Women learn about makeup techniques, skincare, nail care, and options related to hair loss such as wigs, turbans, and scarves. This free program meets twice per year.

For more information, call the FHN Leonard C. Ferguson Cancer Center at FHN Memorial Hospital at 815-599-7000.

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Reach for Recovery

Reach for Recovery visits are sponsored by the American Cancer Society and provide free self-help support services and information for women who have had a mastectomy or lumpectomy. Each patient receives individual support.

For more information, call the American Cancer Society at 1-800-892-9296.

Stephenson County Wig Bank

Highland Community College (HCC) School of Cosmetology students work with individual cancer patients to find the best wig fit and style. Please walk in or call for an appointment. This program is affiliated with the American Cancer Society.

For more information, call 815-599-3544.


Caregiver Support Resources

Do you provide care to a family member, friend, or a member of the community?
Join us for our monthly Caregiver Support Group.
Dementia and Alzheimer Support Group

For more information, call 815-599-7437 or email jroach@fhn.org.

Parkinson's Support Group

Includes people with Parkinson's Disease, their families, and caregivers. The group will provide an opportunity for sharing, understanding, awareness, and support. For more information about this group, please call 815-599-7437 or email jroach@fhn.org.

Home Care Services

For help finding in-home care, contact FHN Social Services at 815-599-6149. A referral is needed for these services, and the cost varies.

Respite Care

This program helps relieve pressure on the caregiver of a chronically ill person by providing short-term care. Respite care charges are not covered by Medicaid, Medicare or insurance. For help finding respite care, contact FHN Social Services at 815-599-6149 or 815-599-6351.


Congestive Heart Failure Support Group

The Congestive Heart Failure support group is for anyone in the general public who has CHF. Our group meets from 1- 2 p.m. on the third Tuesday of every month in the Private Dining Room in the lower level of FHN Memorial Hospital in Freeport. Participation is free, and no referral is needed. No advance registration is required.

Meetings are facilitated by FHN Cardiopulmonary Educators, Carly and Krista. For more information, view the schedule or call 815-599-6388.

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Grief Support Groups

The First Steps Grief Support Group

A bereavement group for anyone who has experienced a loss. The group offers support as the first steps are taken in dealing with a loss. The group meets every third Tuesday of the month from 10 - 11:30 a.m. in the Conference Dining Room at FHN Memorial Hospital.

For more information, contact FHN Pastoral Care at 815-599-7240.

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Living Through Grief

This group uses videos, books, speakers, and discussions to help participants learn more about the grief process, share stories of loss, and regain hope for healing. This support group provides a confidential place to talk about your thoughts and feelings as well as to learn about grief. The group meets every second and fourth Monday of the month at 6 p.m. scheduled in the Deaconess Room at FHN Memorial Hospital. There is a maximum capacity of 25 attendees.

For more information, contact FHN Hospice 815-599-7240.

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Managing Early Grief: The First Year After a Loss

This 9-week support group is designed for anyone who has lost a loved one during the past year. Two sessions are held during the year. There is no charge, but registration is required to attend. Download program brochure PDF file.

For more information or to register, call FHN Hospice at 815-599-7240.

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Perinatal Loss Support Group

A safe and supportive space for parents who have lost a child through miscarriage, stillbirth, or shortly after birth to cope with and share their emotions. Sessions include a short video, discussion, and other activities; evening sessions are available every 3rd Thursday of the month.

For more information or to register, call 815-599-6160.

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