Dennis and Kathy Bruske shared 46 years together as husband and wife in Mitchell, SD, where they created a home and raised two sons. Kathy was well known in the Mitchell community, having worked for 27 years in a local retail store. The pair loved to garden, go camping and spend time in the outdoors.
From Treating Cancer to Discussing Hospice Care
Two days before Christmas in 2021, Kathy was diagnosed with rectal cancer that had spread to her liver and lungs, and she began treatment began in January. With Dennis caring for her every step of the way, Kathy lived another two and a half years. He kept a daily journal about their life and enjoyed taking Kathy on car rides, giving them time to be together out of the house.
In January 2024, when cancer treatments were no longer effective, the Avera Cancer Institute in Mitchell guided them toward hospice care. Though Kathy was unsure at first, conversations with the team helped her and Dennis understand what hospice meant. When she learned that hospice was about maximizing her quality of life and that it included a specialized care team to provide emotional, spiritual and physical support, Kathy felt it was the right choice.
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Living Life Through Hospice
Hospice allowed Kathy to live as comfortably and meaningfully as possible. She was able to remain at home, where the care team supported her through regular visits, medications, pain management and assistance with bathing. They also provided a wheelchair so she could enjoy short walks with her family and friends.
Avera@Home hospice caregivers encouraged Kathy and her family to keep living fully, to stay connected with phone calls and visits, as she was able, and to continue making memories together. Laura Bruns, a social worker with Avera@Home in Mitchell, also helped Kathy complete her Book of Life, a keepsake she was able to share with her two sons.
Going Home
Kathy passed away at 10:25 a.m. on August 30, 2024, with Dennis by her side and Bella, their loyal chihuahua, snuggled in close. Sam Wermers, an RN, was there to guide them. When Dennis felt overwhelmed at the end, Sam gently reminded him to do what felt right and that’s exactly what he did. Dennis said Sam was there when he needed her most.
Dennis said that her memorial service was attended by hundreds of people, honoring a woman loved by all. Today, Dennis visits Kathy’s grave every day. Reflecting on the experience, he says, “Hospice was great in every aspect. I want people to know it doesn’t mean your last breath when you are in hospice.”
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