Hospice of the Red River Valley is a non-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.
Uplifting Experience: Hospice Patient Enjoys Hot Air Balloon Ride
On an early fall morning, Hospice of the Red River Valley Patient Mary Sluke was up with the birds, quite literally. She awoke with excitement in the air and prepared for the ride of a lifetime in a hot air balloon. Mary and her family set off from their West Fargo home through the backroads …
 |
When Seasonal Affective Disorder & Grief Coexist
by Stephanie Pritchard, LPC, NCC Surely you have noticed the chill in the air and the turning of leaves from lush green to yellows, oranges, reds and browns. The cooler weather and beautiful fall colors are a sure sign that fall is here and winter will soon follow. This also means that the amount of …
|
When Eyes Speak
by Janna Kontz, MDiv Have you seen many smiles lately? Think about that. In the age of the mask, have you seen many smiles? At first glance—and first thought—you might say, “Well, no, I can’t see people’s smiles because they are covered with a mask.” Yes … well, but if you think about it, you …
|
A Good Death: Perspective from a Hospice Nurse
by Roxanne Smedsrud, RN, CHPN What does a good death mean to you? How does it look or feel? I’m sure if you ask 10 people, you would get 10 unique responses to these questions. We all have different life experiences, expectations and beliefs that shape our answers. A Personal Perspective After working as a …
|
Grief Specialist Finds Meaning in Working with Grieving Individuals
Grieving is a natural part of life but navigating the grief journey alone can sometimes be difficult. Part of Hospice of the Red River Valley’s mission is to give support to grieving individuals, families and youth in their journey through grief. We provide free services to individuals, families, schools, churches and workplaces whether or not …
|
One More Fishing Trip Creates Family Memories for Hospice Patient
The view from Donovan (Don) Johnson’s window at Pelican Valley Health Center overlooks a fishing pier and pond in the heart of downtown Pelican Rapids, Minn. Lily pads bob and pencil reeds ring the outer fringes of the pond, a scenic oasis of nature created by an iconic dam in the middle of the town …
|
