Melissa John, RN, CHPN, has successfully completed the Hospice and Palliative Nurse Certification through the National Board for Certification of Hospice and Palliative Nurses (NBCHPN). John has worked as a registered nurse for Hospice of the Red River Valley since February 2013. She obtained an Associate of Science from Minot State University – Bottineau, a Diploma in Practical Nursing from Central Community College and an Associate in Nursing, RN from Bismarck State College.

The purpose of certification is to promote delivery of comprehensive palliative nursing care through the certification of qualified hospice and palliative professionals. Certification in hospice and palliative care is highly valued and provides formal recognition of hospice and palliative nursing or administration knowledge.

Kriston Wenzel, LSW, CT, has successfully obtained Thanatology Certification through the Association for Death Education and Counseling (ADEC). Wenzel is a bereavement specialist for Hospice of the Red River Valley and has worked with the organization for 13 years. She earned a bachelor’s degree in social work from Minnesota State University Moorhead.

Connie DeKrey, LSW, CT, has also successfully obtained certification in Thanatology through the ADEC. DeKrey has worked for Hospice of the Red River Valley for 21 years, first in patient care and for the past 11 years as a bereavement specialist. She earned her bachelor’s degree in social work from Minnesota State University Moorhead.

The purpose of the certification in Thanatology is to enhance professionals with an educational background in dying, death and bereavement.

Employees of Border State Bank recently raised $3,000 for Hospice of the Red River Valley. The Thief River Falls branch of Border State Bank has 19 employees who raise money throughout the year through various activities. This is the fifth year Border State Bank has chosen Hospice of the Red River Valley as the recipient. The donation will be used to provide compassionate end-of-life care to those in Thief River Falls and surrounding communities.

Jessica Porter, Consumer Loan Servicing Specialist at Border State Bank, said they chose Hospice of the Red River Valley as the beneficiary because of the organization’s impact on the Thief River Falls area. “Our community appreciates the kind and caring service provided by Hospice, and we look forward to continuing our fundraising efforts to provide future support,” Porter said.

“We are so appreciative of Border State Bank’s gift,” said Hospice of the Red River Valley Development Officer Curt Seter. “Their continued commitment to supporting Hospice helps ensure that this care will continue long into the future.”