Hospice of the Red River Valley is a not-for-profit hospice that provides intensive comfort care to enhance quality of life for individuals with life-limiting illnesses. Our site shares patient, caregiver and volunteer stories—demonstrating how hospice allows people to live well, and tools and resources about end-of-life and grief.
Signs of Complicated Grief & Ways to Cope
by Janel Ruby, LBSW, & Janna Kontz, MDiv We will all experience grief at some point in our lives. At its best, grieving is complicated. We may feel a variety of emotions when something in our lives has changed, been lost or has come to an end. It may be the death of someone important …
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A Family Affair: Siblings Enjoy Volunteering at Hospice of the Red River Valley, Heirlooms
For siblings Dave Brunelle and Janet Cox, volunteering is a bit of a family affair. The brother and sister duo enjoy offering their time and talent while giving back to others. Both share similar volunteer roles with Hospice of the Red River Valley and Heirlooms Thrift & Gift, a Fargo resale store benefitting Hospice. The …
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How to Talk with Children about Serious Illness & Death
When someone in your family has been diagnosed with a serious illness or is dying, it can be difficult to come to terms with what’s happening. It can be even more challenging when children are involved. Even in the face of a such a difficult situation, being open and honest with children is always the …
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5 Practical Suggestions for Caring for a Loved One Who Can’t Communicate
by Heather Larson, LSW, CT Caregiving for a loved one comes with its own set of rewards and challenges. When your loved one is unable to speak, the situation can become more complicated. Witnessing your loved one lose their ability to speak takes a toll, not only on the individual, but also the caregivers. It …
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It’s Never too Late to Thank a Veteran, Even at the End of Life
Americans across the country celebrate Veterans Day on Nov. 11, a special day to salute the men and women who have bravely served our country in the military. These fellow Americans have made profound sacrifices to defend our freedom, and they deserve our heartfelt thanks and appreciation. Honoring our nation’s veterans includes supporting them throughout …
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7 Ways to Help a Parent Who Has Lost a Spouse
by Jennifer Messelt, LMSW, LGSW In my 14 years as grief specialist at Hospice of the Red River Valley, I’ve sat across from many grieving spouses. It’s been a privilege and honor to journey alongside them during their first year of grief. Through these interactions, I have learned about the grief reactions bereaved spouses have …
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