Jenny Nelson
As told by Jessie Switzer, sister
Jenny was full of life, love and so much laughter. She is remembered for her love of people, telling others about Jesus and her adventurous spirit. She made you better, helped you want to be better and do better, and to live life to the fullest. She was always up for everything and so spontaneous. Her laugh was contagious. She was a middle child and let us know that. Growing up, she was stubborn, determined and outgoing and made you feel seen, loved and special. She loved people deeply and loved to build relationships with people of all ages. Her main mission was spreading the love of Jesus!
Jenny fought hard for a year and a half against the battle of colon cancer. She faced it head-on with so many of her family and friends by her side. She was faithful in prayer and was a fearless warrior during this time. Jenny went to be home with Jesus on June 21, 2023.
Cedar Valley Hospice came alongside Jenny’s husband and her family to support them in the last few days of her life. They came into the home, where Jenny wanted to be, and this allowed the family to be with Jenny. She had come home from the hospital after another trip there. Cedar Valley Hospice stepped in to help with medication, making her comfortable and provided a calming presence in her final days.
The first time I attended the Release and Remember event was three years ago when my mom passed away suddenly from heart failure. This was during Jenny’s battle with cancer. My dad, son and daughter participated, and it was beautiful. I felt my mom’s presence amongst the butterflies and through this special event.
My mom, Grandma Lou, passed away in 2022; however, she didn’t go through hospice since it was a rather sudden death. After, Cedar Valley Hospice welcomed me and my family to be a part of their grief process. It was a blessing to have counseling not only for me, but such a help for three of my children.
The Cedar Valley Hospice grief program is a wonderful tool, and I can’t speak enough of how much it has helped my children and I through my mom and Jenny’s deaths. It taught me to work through grief, and what it may look like or feel like and how it can be different for every person. It was also very nice that the youth grief counselor came to the school and had sessions with them there. It was convenient and special.
Grandma Lou and Aunt Jenny were so special to my children. My youngest son has participated in the grief camp for the past three years, and it is amazing. He has had an amazing experience, doing activities to remember his grandma and aunt that helped him make positive memories. I’m very thankful for the support Cedar Valley Hospice provides to all ages.
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