Carol Sheldon
As told by Tyann Rouw, daughter and current Cedar Valley Hospice volunteer
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“My mom, Carol Sheldon, was caring, helpful, and hardworking. She enjoyed baking, painting, working outside, and spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren. She had a huge heart. She was a fantastic cook and made an enormous amount of food for family gatherings, especially during the holidays. She even supplied the family with giant containers for leftovers, and brought homemade cookies for the grandkids after their special events, such as school concerts and programs. She was always there.
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Mom was first diagnosed with breast cancer in 1991, had a recurrence, and lived cancer-free for over a decade. She was then diagnosed with metastatic cancer in October 2016, and died in February 2017.Â
Mom received hospice services shortly after her terminal diagnosis. It was such a relief to have a team of knowledgeable and caring people to help guide us through this transition. We felt supported and loved. Cedar Valley Hospice allowed Mom to stay in her home as long as possible, which was Mom’s wish. She received services at home and spent two weeks at the Cedar Valley Hospice Home for pain management.
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Mom bonded with Paula, a home care aide, and loved that she applied lotion to her legs after a bath. Mom was an immaculate housekeeper and appreciated Paula cleaning her kitchen floor, doing laundry and changing her sheets. Mom loved her nurse, Amanda. When Mom left the Hospice Home, Marsy, a nurse, wrapped Mom in a quilt and told her she loved her. I stood there in tears of gratitude. I had many heart-to-heart conversations with Sara and other nurses at the Hospice Home – a physician, too!
Mom died at a nursing home, and Cedar Valley Hospice was there, too, supporting her and me. During a difficult time, hospice care became our lifeline. Cedar Valley Hospice allowed Mom to live the best life she could in the time she had remaining. It’s never too early to contact hospice, and I’m so grateful she received services early. When Mom required more help, she already knew and was comfortable with the team. Having healthcare professionals guide us with such compassionate care allowed me to be a daughter instead of a caregiver. I am forever grateful.
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I was profoundly touched by the work of Cedar Valley Hospice. It changed me forever. When the time was right, I knew I wanted to give back in some way. I began volunteering in 2024. It is such a privilege to volunteer for this amazing organization. It is an honor to support patients and families at the end of life. Cedar Valley Hospice provided compassionate care for my mom; I am so happy and proud to volunteer in this capacity.”
"During a difficult time, hospice care became our lifeline. I’m so grateful she received services early."
– Tyann Rouw, daughter and current Cedar Valley Hospice volunteer
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