Katie Wisthoff Wiedrick lived with strength, grace, and a deep love for others. Whether sharing her famous baked goods, supporting family and friends, or facing life’s challenges, she approached every moment with kindness.
After years of managing health concerns and caring for loved ones, Katie’s own health declined in late December 2025. During a visit to a walk-in clinic, a nurse practitioner suggested hospice care. Because of her family’s previous experience with cancer, Katie was hesitant. Her daughter, Ruth, encouraged her to have a conversation with HIA Hospice to learn more.
Just two days after meeting the hospice team, Katie enrolled in care.
The HIA Hospice team came alongside Katie and her family, providing pain management, comfort, and guidance during a difficult time. Shortly after services began, Katie told her daughter, “I wish we had done this sooner.”
Though Katie received hospice care for only a little more than a week, Ruth says that week made a meaningful difference.
“I wish we had started hospice care earlier for Mom. She could have had that compassionate, dignified care for a longer period of time.”
Ruth Skar – Katie Wisthoff Wiedrick’s Daughter
“Each person who cared for Mom treated her with dignity,” Ruth said. “To know we weren’t doing this alone and had a medical team supporting us helped our family tremendously and lowered our anxiety in the care of Mom.”
Today, Ruth hopes other families will learn from their experience.
“I wish we had started hospice care earlier for Mom. She could have had that compassionate, dignified care for a longer period of time. If you’re hesitant, make the call and start the conversation. You don’t have to do this alone.”