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People who are in the final stage of their life and their loved ones face many challenges, and anxiety is often one of those challenges present during this phase of life. It’s natural for people to feel anxious because of the uncertainty or fear of dying. Anxiety is a natural response to factors that create…
by Heather Larson, LSW, CT Holidays are typically a joyful time filled with celebrations, gatherings and merriment, but it can be a stressful and emotional time when a family member or someone close to you is dealing with an illness. My family and I were in this situation in 2017 when my beloved grandpa was…
As a professional caregiver, you may spend more time with the people you care for than your own family. Sometimes the people you care for can become like family to you or you may feel like family to them, especially if the person does not have family of their own. It can be difficult when…
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…
Dignity is a basic human need; it’s our sense of self-worth, respect and esteem. Preserving dignity in another person means respecting their whole self and caregiving in a way that respects their preferences and individuality. One of the most rewarding aspects of being a caregiver is to know you’ve provided dignified care. So, how do we know…
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 of 2,500.…
Bunnie and Mike Messelt met through unusual circumstances. Their friendship and eventual relationship developed through intense personal loss. Bunnie first met Mike as a volunteer through the Hope Care Ministry when Mike’s late wife Sheila was dying of breast cancer. Bunnie offered in-home communion to Sheila through their shared church. Bunnie was taken by Sheila’s…
When someone is dying, it can be an emotional and trying time for everyone involved. Many people shy away from the person who is dying because they don’t know how to deal with the emotions involved or they are afraid of what’s to come. The most important thing to remember is this is about the…
by Jennifer Messelt, LMSW, LGSW In my 14 years as grief specialist at HIA Hospice, 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 experienced. I’ve also learned the types…
Have you ever had someone say something to you during a difficult situation that you know was said with good intent but came across as hurtful or uncomfortable? How something is said can make all the difference. Knowing what to say when someone is ill can be challenging. Below are tips on what to say and…