Serious illness touches us all.
Walking Lois Home invites readers into a conversation about suffering, caregiving, faith, and hope—and explores how the teachings of Jesus can guide us through illness, dying, and loss all the way home.
How do we love the sick and dying faithfully in a culture that often turns away from suffering?
A physician and pastor share the story of a woman who spent her final months in their home — and what she taught us all about faith, caregiving, and the power of compassion in the face of serious illness.
COMING OCTOBER 2026 FROM BAKER BOOKS
“I was sick and you took care of me.”
— Matthew 25:36
Learn what to say, how to visit, and how to offer compassionate support to those facing serious illness.
Research-Informed. Christ-Centered. Caregiver-Proven.
Drawing on decades of research, clinical care, ministry, and lived experience, Walking Lois Home brings together insights from medicine, theology, and caregiving to help readers navigate serious illness with wisdom and hope.
During the final six months of her life, Lois lived with our family while receiving hospice care. As she faced serious illness, we witnessed a remarkable transformation—from anxiety and despair to faith, belonging, and deep peace. In caring for Lois, we discovered profound lessons about suffering, love, and the healing power of compassionate presence. Her story lies at the heart of Walking Lois Home.
WHO THIS BOOK IS FOR…
Caregivers & Families
Find encouragement and practical guidance for the road you're walking.
Healthcare Professionals
Integrate spiritual care and compassion into every aspect of patient care.
Pastors & Church Leaders
Equip your congregation to accompany those facing illness and loss with grace.
Those Facing Illness
Find wisdom, courage, and hope for the road ahead.
THE STORY OF LOIS
What one woman's journey home taught us all.
Lois was more than our patient—she became family. Her wisdom, humor, and awakened faith reshaped how we understand suffering, love, and the presence of God in life's hardest moments.
ABOUT THE AUTHORS
Tracy Balboni, MD, and Michael Balboni, PhD, are researchers, caregivers, and co-founders of the Harvard Initiative on Health, Spirituality, and Religion.
