Family members sharing an everyday moment of connection and care
Our story & purpose

Because the way we care matters.

Hospice is about more than managing symptoms. It is about making room for comfort, connection, peace, and the moments that matter most.

We take time to understand each patient as a person, listen to the people who love them, and create a plan of care that respects their wishes, values, and beliefs.

What guides us

Our values in action.

These principles are reflected in the conversations we have, the relationships we build, and the care we provide every day.

01 / OUR VALUES

Personalization

We honor every individual’s needs, choices, and goals with care that is truly their own.

02 / OUR VALUES

Compassion

We lead with empathy, patience, kindness, and a genuine heart for service.

03 / OUR VALUES

Collaboration

We work alongside families, caregivers, and healthcare professionals as one team.

04 / OUR VALUES

Timeliness

We recognize the importance of each moment and respond with care and attention.

For every family we serve

You don’t have to walk this journey alone.

Whether you’re exploring hospice for the first time or looking for guidance right now, we’re here to answer your questions with compassion and understanding.

A heart for West Michigan

Leadership that puts people first.

Founder and CEO Aaron Leestma leads West Michigan Hospice with a commitment to thoughtful, patient-centered care and meaningful support for local families.

That commitment is carried forward by a team dedicated to caring for the whole person while treating every family with warmth, dignity, and respect.

Aaron Leestma, founder and CEO of West Michigan Hospice
Meet the people behind the care

A team that feels like family.

From physicians and nurses to spiritual care, social work, and aides, these are the people who help patients and families feel supported at every step.

Portrait of Aaron Leestma
Aaron LeestmaFounder & CEO

Aaron has 20 years of experience in in-home care and six years in long-term care.

Portrait of Dr. Matthew Falkiewicz
Dr. Matthew FalkiewiczMedical Director

Provides medical leadership and physician oversight focused on comfort and quality of life.

Portrait of Dr. Alex Dejong
Dr. Alex DejongPhysician

Part of the medical team supporting compassionate, individualized patient care.

Portrait of Jamie Allen
Jamie AllenFNP-BC

Nurse practitioner supporting patients and families with personalized clinical care.

Portrait of Tyler Davison
Tyler DavisonMSN, RN · Director of Nursing

With a master’s degree in nursing from DePaul University, Tyler leads the nursing team and brings experience managing chronic conditions in emergency settings.

Portrait of Daniel Pierce
Daniel PierceChaplain

Daniel has a master’s degree in theological studies and offers support through scripture, prayer, and music when welcomed.

Portrait of Maggie Ferguson
Maggie FergusonMSW

Provides social work support for patients and their loved ones.

Portrait of Megan McDowell
Megan McDowellLLMSW

Provides social work support to patients and families.

Portrait of Thomas Guarino
Thomas GuarinoBSN, RN

Brings extensive ICU experience, clinical knowledge, and a personable approach to patient care.

Portrait of Bree Werkma
Bree WerkmaBSN, RN

A member of the hospice nursing team.

Portrait of Courtnee
CourtneeBSN, RN

A member of the hospice nursing team.

Portrait of Taylor Skinner
Taylor SkinnerBSN, RN

A member of the hospice nursing team.

Portrait of Danielle Haskins
Danielle HaskinsRN · Clinical Liaison

Helps connect patients, families, and care partners with hospice services.

Portrait of Danielle Poort
Danielle PoortCare Team

Supports patients as part of the hospice care team.

Portrait of Azlynn Scott
Azlynn ScottAide

Provides hands-on support and personal care for patients.

Portrait of Jenn Polling
Jenn PollingAide

Provides hands-on support and personal care for patients.

Portrait of Dawn Rivard
Dawn RivardAide

Provides hands-on support and personal care for patients.

Compassion rooted in faith

Care for body, mind, and spirit.

Our faith inspires us to serve others with love. We recognize that every individual and family brings their own traditions, values, and beliefs to this journey.

We offer spiritual and emotional support with sensitivity and respect, always following each person’s wishes. Prayer and chaplain support are available when welcomed.

Loved ones offering caring support
We're here when you need us

Compassionate guidance starts with a conversation.

Have questions about hospice care for yourself, someone you love, or a patient? Our team is ready to listen and help you understand the next steps.