Expertise. Sensitivity. Connection.
Personalized care starts with an exceptional team.
Our experienced professionals bring empathy and dedication, ensuring that every patient receives care tailored to their needs. Together, we create comfort, build meaningful connections, and honor each life with compassion and respect
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We are honored to be part of your journey and committed to providing the compassionate care you deserve.
Simon Mittal, MD, MMM, CHMD
Medical Director
Hospice has been an important part of my personal and professional journey. I am a Board Certified Internal Medicine physician with 30 years of experience and also a Certified Hospice Medical Director. I have been in hospice off and on in my career but over the last 10 years I have been a medical director in hospice.
When I was in the Army, my mother developed breast cancer at age 46 and died when she was 51 years old and my mom and dad opted not to have hospice and I saw the stress and how difficult it was for my whole family. My father had dementia and Parkinson’s disease and we did have hospice and it was amazing the difference for him and our family in terms of less anxiety and worry. People who were caring and involved helped my Dad so much. Although, I have dedicated my career to the care of seniors, the caring by a team of compassionate people at the end of life is an incredibly humbling and amazing honor to share in the journey we share with families and individuals.
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Trisha M. Curioz, MHA, MSW, LISW
Executive Director
For the past two decades, I have had the privilege of serving as a medical social worker. Working with hospice patients and their caregivers is not merely a profession, it's a passion. In celebrating life's journey, I have come to understand that every breath matters, whether it marks the beginning of a new chapter or gently concludes a well-lived life. I feel privileged to work with our patients, caregivers, and exceptional team!
Brittany Carston, ASN, RN
Clinical Services Manager
I am a dedicated registered nurse with 11 years of experience in end-of-life care. My background includes expertise in organizational planning, quality assurance, compliance, and case management. I am passionate about fostering strong relationships through collaboration and support among care teams, facility providers, and families.
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I’m grateful to work alongside a compassionate, high-quality team that’s dedicated to providing individualized care with dignity and respect.
Anne Schwemm, MSN, NP-C
Nurse Practitioner
I've been a Nurse Practitioner for 17 years, and my career has taken me through various healthcare settings. I began my journey in the emergency departments in Iowa and Maine before finally settling in Minnesota, which has been my home for the past ten years. During my time as a Nurse Practitioner, I've had the privilege of witnessing the remarkable impact a caring hospice team can have on patients and their families. This experience has touched me both personally and professionally, and it has reaffirmed the value of compassion and support during challenging times.
James Clements, ADN, RN
Clinical Nurse Liaison
I have been a registered nurse for 30 years, with 8 years in critical care, 14 years in the emergency department, and the last 8 years in hospice care. Like many who come to work in hospice, I was first introduced to it through a personal experience—caring for my mother during her end-of-life journey. That profound experience compelled me to become a hospice nurse. Hospice has been, and continues to be, the most inspiring and fulfilling part of my nursing career. This field allows me to spend meaningful time with patients and their families, building relationships and witnessing the remarkable strength they show during a difficult time. Every moment has touched my heart. I am deeply grateful to be part of a compassionate hospice team, comprised of empathetic, knowledgeable, and dedicated professionals. Each day, we are committed to meeting the physical, emotional, and spiritual needs of those we are honored to serve. It is my hope to get to know you and your family, and my goal is to provide the care, support, and guidance that will bring comfort and quality of life during this unique chapter of your life’s journey.
Holly Bruckelmyer, RN
Registered Nurse
Dedicated to delivering compassionate end-of-life care, I am a nurse deeply committed to ensuring the comfort and dignity of patients during their final journey. Inspired by the impactful experience of caring for my brother-in-law with the support of hospice, I am driven to provide the same one-on-one care in my nursing career. Rooted in the profound philosophy of hospice, I believe in encapsulating individuals and their loved ones with unwavering support. As a hospice nurse, I consider it a gift to contribute to the unique life stories of every individual and their families, making a difference in their end-of-life journey. I am honored to be part of an exceptional hospice team dedicated to holistic and compassionate care for those in need.
Spencer Moffatt, MDiv, PhD
Chaplain / Bereavement Coordinator
As a hospice chaplain, my mission is to deepen the understanding of life’s beauty, while honoring the sacredness of its final chapter—death. It is a privilege to walk alongside patients during the twilight of their lives, helping them and their loved ones prepare for this profound transition. With compassion, openness, and genuine curiosity, I create a safe space for patients to reflect on their unique journeys, encouraging conversations that help process the inevitability of death and its emotional impact. Each person I meet is a distinctive constellation of thoughts, emotions, and experiences, and I find deep meaning in being present for them and their families as they navigate this delicate time, responding to evolving needs with care and understanding.
Judith Mosoti, RN
Registered Nurse
I am a hospice nurse with over four years of dedicated service, committed to delivering compassionate care to patients in nursing home and assisted living settings. I am empathetic and culturally sensitive to patients I care for. With time, I develop personalized treatment plans tailored to individual needs. I enjoy working as a team and always ready to learn.
Samantha Colleran, CSW
Social Worker
From working in social work at a nursing home and as a manager at an assisted living facility, I have gained experience in hospice and end-of-life care. I believe that every patient's end-of-life care experience should be tailored to their unique needs and wishes, honoring their dignity and choices. I am committed to ensuring each patient feels valued and understood while providing compassionate support to both the patient and their families. My passion for hospice drives my dedication to working with an exceptional team focused on creating the best person-centered care.
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Koren Willetts, MDiv
Chaplain
As a hospice chaplain, I bring a wealth of experience and a profound commitment to providing spiritual care to individuals and families navigating the challenging journey of end-of-life care. Equipped with a Master of Divinity degree, my academic foundation has empowered me with the theological insight and spiritual care skills essential for fostering comfort and solace during times of profound transition. Recognizing the unique needs of those under my care, I specialize in integrating pet therapy into my spiritual support services. Understanding the powerful comforting potential that the companionship of animals can offer, I have seamlessly woven this therapeutic modality into my approach.
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In my practice, I firmly believe that each person possesses absolute worth and value, regardless of their circumstances or health status. This core belief forms the foundation of my approach as a hospice chaplain, driving me to create an inclusive and affirming space where individuals are honored for the entirety of their lives. Through a deeply empathetic and person-centered approach, I strive to meet individuals where they are, recognizing the diverse spiritual and emotional landscapes that shape their unique experiences. In honoring the inherent dignity of each person, I seek to provide a source of strength and comfort, facilitating a sense of peace and resolution as they navigate the profound and sacred moments at the end of life.
Christa Kletscher, CNA
Hospice Aid
As a passionate Certified Nursing Assistant specializing in hospice care, I am dedicated to providing compassionate support to patients and their families during life’s most challenging moments. With five years of experience in hospice, I understand the importance of holistic care that honors each individual’s unique journey. In my role, I focus on creating a nurturing environment where patients feel valued and respected. I assist with daily living activities while prioritizing comfort, dignity, and emotional well-being. My approach is centered on building meaningful connections, allowing me to provide not just physical assistance but also heartfelt support
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At Lake Valley Hospice, we are dedicated to making a positive impact in the lives of those we serve. It is an honor to accompany patients and their families on this journey, providing them with the care, compassion, and respect they deserve.
Bethany Hutchinson
Volunteer
I have spent many years working with people living with trauma, loss, disability and grief in my role at Mind Body Solutions yoga and am honored to now serve individuals through Lake Valley Hospice. Having witnessed the incredible care provided to my grandmother by hospice at the end of her life, I strive to offer the same compassion, dignity and understanding.
Jason Reeves
Volunteer
After retiring from the United States Army in July 2023 with the rank of Major, connecting with hospice veterans and caregivers has become a profound passion for me. The incredible narratives they share are invaluable treasures that deserve to be passed down to future generations. Their voices and experiences have shaped our nation and must be honored and preserved. My mission is to foster a sense of familiarity and respect for veterans; I am committed to providing them with a compassionate ear that not only listens but truly hears them. Together with my faithful pet companion Lena, we hope to bring moments of happiness and peace.
Skeelohs
Hello, my name is Skeelohs, the friendly 8-year-old Mini-Golden Doodle with special training from the Pet Partners Therapy Animal Program. My mission is to bring joy and comfort to our wonderful patients and caregivers. When I visit, I pay close attention to their cues and do my best to make them feel better.
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You see, I have a unique talent. I can help ease physical pain by providing a pleasant distraction, and I'm pretty good at calming anxiety too. My ultimate goal is to lift spirits and bring some sunshine to your day!