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.
Last Act of Love: Loving Son Reflects on Caring for Parents, Hospice Support
Arlyn Mogck was the planner. A licensed public accountant with a mind for detail, it was ingrained in his personality. In fact, he had mapped out his life in three equal segments, with a purpose to each: The first 30 years was for starting a career and family. The next 30 was for setting him …
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Cooking Up Something Sweet for Hospice in Dickey, N.D.
The 45 or so community members of Dickey, N.D., aren’t just neighbors, they are an extended family. “Everyone cares for everyone,” Chrissy Kartes, Dickey resident, explained. So when one of their own struggles, the whole community shows up to help, in whatever way they can. Dennis Kuska, a well-known and loved resident, experienced this firsthand …
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Pampering Patients: Hospice Certified Nursing Assistant Takes Pride in Providing Delicate Care
Hospice of the Red River Valley certified nursing assistants (CNAs) work with patients to provide individualized care based on each person’s preferences. Hospice CNAs help patients with personal care needs, including feeding, bathing assistance, shaving and nail care. They also provide light housekeeping services for individuals under our care. But perhaps the most important aspect …
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Finding Solace in Expressive Arts — Part 3: There’s a Song in the Air
by Connie DeKrey, LSW, CT As long as I can remember, music was a part of my life. My parents, during their rare moments of rest, would serenade us with accordion or pump organ. I learned to harmonize while hearing country music on the local radio station. And I fondly recall sitting beside my father …
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Finding Solace in Expressive Arts — Part 2: A Hands-on Approach
by Connie DeKrey, LSW, CT When I was a very small child, the favorite gift I received at Christmas was my first set of Play-Doh. Naturally I was drawn to the brightly colored lids atop enticing yellow cans. But oh, then to open them, revealing the soft, malleable mass of possibilities! I would occupy myself …
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Finding Solace in Expressive Arts — Part 1: In the Garden
by Connie DeKrey, LSW, CT The role of expressive arts in helping individuals move through their journey of grief is an idea that has always excited me. I have witnessed so many examples not only in my work as a bereavement specialist, but also in my personal life. While the concept of working through one’s …
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