Finding a Calling in Hospice Care

November is National Hospice Month, a time to honor the caregivers who bring comfort, dignity, and peace to patients and families during life’s most tender moments. It’s also a time to reflect on why hospice care is such a meaningful career path and why professionals like our very own team member, Kendra Wilson, have chosen to dedicate their lives to it. 

Kendra began her healthcare career at just 18 years old, working as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA). After five years in that role, she earned her Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) certification and continued serving for another five years. In May 2023, she proudly achieved her Registered Nurse (RN) degree. 

Throughout her career, Kendra has primarily worked in the senior living industry, with additional experience in group home settings and oncology. Her passion for nursing was deeply inspired by the compassionate care her grandparents received during their battles with Alzheimer’s disease. That experience solidified her commitment to advancing in healthcare and making a meaningful impact. 

In 2021, while working as a travel LPN, Kendra served at Ecumen Lakeview Commons. What began as a temporary assignment quickly became a long-term connection, and she officially joined the team after nearly a year. From the beginning, the Ecumen team made her feel like part of the family. 

During her time at Lakeview Commons, Kendra had the privilege of working alongside the Ecumen Hospice team. As she neared the completion of her RN program, they encouraged her to consider hospice care, believing it would be a perfect fit. They were right. Hospice became her calling. 

In May 2023, Kendra joined Ecumen Hospice of the Twin Cities as an RN Case Manager. After two years in this role, she was honored to be considered for the Clinical Operations Manager position in St. Cloud. 

Kendra’s story is a powerful reminder of why hospice care is such a rewarding career path: 

• Deeply meaningful work: Hospice nurses provide comfort, dignity, and peace at life’s most important moments. 
• Connection with families: Caregivers build lasting relationships, supporting families through tender transitions. 
• Team collaboration: Hospice professionals work alongside compassionate colleagues who share the same values. 
• Personal growth: Hospice challenges caregivers to grow not only as professionals but also as human beings. 

As we celebrate National Hospice Month, Kendra’s journey shows how hospice can be a place where purpose and passion meet. For healthcare professionals seeking work that truly matters, hospice offers the opportunity to make a profound difference in the lives of patients and families. 

At Ecumen Hospice, caregivers like Kendra are more than part of a team, they’re part of a family. And the organization is always looking for compassionate, dedicated professionals to join in this mission. 

If you’re ready to find purpose in your nursing career, consider hospice. It may just change your life—just as it did for Kendra. Visit our careers page to learn more.