Payable to: Sunset Hospice Cottage
PO Box. 203 Worthington, MN 56187
After tragically losing her husband Tom Murphy, Susanne turned her pain into purpose. Susanne was soon joined by a dozen locals, all of whom shared similar stories of loss and a common goal to uplift the community. The group quickly went to work, and as they honored the memories of their loved ones, they created a comforting home away from home for Worthington residents approaching the end of life.
In September of 2001, Hospice Cottage Inc, a nonprofit 501(c)(3), was successfully established, and it’s been a mainstay in the community ever since. Learn all about the facility and the team that helps Worthington’s Cottage of Care run so smoothly. Get to know the all-volunteer board, who were brought together by passion, purpose and love of community.
I’m humbled to be a hospice volunteer. Hospice makes a big difference in the last days of a person’s life; it helps to bring peace, comfort, and dignity. It also helps the family face the passing of their loved one both at the time of death and after. I am thankful hospice was there for me when my husband passed away.
Ruth Nystrom
Board of DirectorsMy mother and father-in-law both received compassionate hospice care. Being a member of the Sunset Hospice Cottage board allows me to help ensure other patients receive physical, emotional, social, and spiritual end of life care.
Sue Hagen
Board of DirectorsI am honored to be a part of the Sunset Cottage team. I have prior experience working in home hospice and also worked at Sunset Cottage as a nurse-assistant when it first opened back in 2004. I have had two grandparents in the cottage as well, both with amazing experiences! I believe in the importance of providing compassionate care for end-of-life patients and families. I am excited to make a positive impact for the community.
Jen Smith
Board of DirectorsOur family was so fortunate to have my grandmother spend her final days at the Sunset Hospice Cottage many years ago. I am honored to be on the board to give back by supporting this wonderful organization.
Julie Lopez
VolunteerIn the past, I have been a financial supporter of the Sunset Hospice Cottage via their annual charity event. When asked to serve on the Board of Directors, I was honored. I fully support the Sunset Hospice Cottage’s purpose of providing comfort at the end of life. The Sunset Hospice Cottage provides not only comfort for the individual, but a place of gathering for family members and friends.
Ryan Weber
Board of DirectorsI am honored to be part of the hospice organization. I believe there is an immense benefit to personalized end of life care. It’s admirable to see how the Sunset Hospice Cottage volunteers and staff show stewardship towards others.
Cheryl Droll
VolunteerI have worked on hospice fundraisers for a number of years and with that I became more familiar with hospice care and knew this is something I wanted to do. Meeting those in hospice care at the end of life’s journey and hearing their stories has been an honor and a privilege.
Pam Hain
VolunteerI was looking for a place to land in retirement and have always had a passion for nobody going through their next journey alone. I thank God for the Sunset Hospice Cottage. It is a place that has caring staff and volunteers that give comfort, care, and peace to each patient. I am glad to be a part of such a fine home. Worthington is blessed.
Kathy Gundersen
VolunteerI always knew that when my life would allow me extra time, I wanted to volunteer at hospice. To be able to talk and comfort those in need and share God’s love means a lot to me. I am honored to be a part of hospice!
Amy Oberloh
VolunteerI have always had a heart for serving and helping others. We were privileged to have hospice care and support for both of my parents in their final days, and it was amazing. I am honored now to be able to be a part of the Sunset Hospice Cottage volunteer team.
Lisa Schutte
VolunteerI was looking for a challenge that would be fulfilling, serve a purpose, and provide a sense of mission, and provide me an opportunity to serve God. This position provides all that and surrounds me with like hearted people. Everyday I feel blessed to be part of this team.
Laurie Bullerman
Volunteer CoordinatorI feel that quality end of life care facilities are an integral part of any community. Having professional staff to care for our loved ones in a comfortable home-like setting and having a place for visiting family is invaluable. I wish this was available when my grandmother passed while suffering from cancer.
Joe Anderson
Board of DirectorsMy family was able to use the cottage for my mom and it was such a blessing. I want to help in every way I can so the cottage continues to be a blessing to anyone who needs it.
Pat Grimmius
Board of Directors, SecretaryIt is nice to serve for an organization that wants the best for people who use our cottage. Serving has given me lasting friendships. It is rewarding to see our community bond together for the Hospice Cottage cause. It has been a true blessing.
Kathy Hayenga
Board of Directors / Co-TreasurerYou will never be closer to God than at the birth of someone or the death of someone.
Joel Krekelberg
VolunteerSunset Hospice Cottage provided care for my husband and helped us make our remaining time as comfortable and meaningful. We were able to be a family.
Robyn Moser
Board of DirectorsI choose to be involved with Sunset Hospice Cottage – it is an experience of honor and privilege to serve families in the transition of end of life. I believe in dignity, comfort, and respect, and the hospice experience promotes a higher quality of life in those times.
Susanne Murphy
Board of Directors- Vice PresidentOur family was touched by the blessed volunteers and facility. Once you see the deep commitment and honest caregiving that comes from the Hospice Cottage you are compelled to get involved and pay it forward for others.
Michael Petersen
Board of Directors / PresidentI am humbled beyond words for the opportunity to be a hospice volunteer. I hope to touch and am touched by patients and families I’ve met during their end-of life journey. Nothing teaches kindness, courage and compassion more than being a hospice volunteer. It’s about making a difference.
Deb Scheidt
Board of DirectorsMy husband was in hospice and I saw how caring people were. Being on the board is one way I can give back.
Judy Selberg
Board of DirectorsMy dad was diagnosed with treatable, but not curable cancer over 25 years ago. I personally have experienced the practicality and beauty of the Sunset Hospice Cottage and the wonderful physical and emotional care provided for both of my parents who spent their final days at the Cottage.
Ida Van Westen
VolunteerWhether you’re familiar with the hospice process or it’s all new to you, we’re here to help guide you every step of the way. To get you started, we’ve paired the most common hospice questions with a host of heartfelt answers from certified professionals. From the fundamentals of hospice to family grief counseling, learn what to expect and determine the type of care that’s right for you and your loved ones.
Who is eligible to receive hospice care?
Typically, care is offered to anyone who has a life expectancy of less than 6 months. However, most people start hospice care in-home and as their symptoms advance, they often move to a full-time managed care facility such as Sunset Hospice Cottage.
What if the patient lives longer than 6 months?
This is a blessing, and you will receive the same care for you as long as you meet the conditions for hospice services.
How do I know when it’s time to go into a facility like Sunset Hospice Cottage?
Many people start their hospice care at home, and the majority of our residents use Sanford’s services for in-home hospice care. Most commonly our residence transition from in-home hospice care to our Sunset Hospice Cottage when it becomes difficult for you or your family to adequately take care of your needs. This transition is sometimes for the concerns for safety, the needs for general care, or even emotional support.
Can I go home from Sunset Hospice Cottage if I get better?
Absolutely, we have had several patients whose conditions took a turn for the best. We are always delighted to see somebody return to their home if they so desire. The decision is always in the hands of the patient and the family.
How much does it cost?
$170 per night paid to Sanford Health. Reimbursement for most hospice services comes from Medicare, Medicaid, health maintenance organizations, and other private insurance plans. However, these costs do not cover room and board. The per night fee is paid to Sanford for the additional staff necessary for 24/7 operation. Sunset Hospice Cottage costs are covered entirely by donations.
How long are most patients in Sunset Hospice Cottage?
The majority of patients are in the cottage 5 to 10 days, but some have been in our facility for more than six months.
I'm concerned about the pain, can you help?
Our nurses on staff specialize in pain and symptom management and are always working to address your needs and make you more comfortable.
Does choosing hospice mean I am "giving up"?
Hospice care focuses on enhancing the quality of life in its final stages. It seeks neither to shorten nor prolong life.
May I continue with my treatments and therapies?
Hospice specializes in palliative care also referred to as comfort care. Therefore, treatments are focused on controlling symptoms and managing pain, rather than attempting to cure.
How large is Sunset Hospice Cottage facility?
The building is roughly 15,000 square feet or 5-10 times larger than a typical home. It also includes limited underground parking to make it easy for residents to come into the facility without being exposed to the outdoor elements. The Cottage is located on 2 acres tucked away inside of a residential neighborhood on the south side of Lake Okabena. The facility has 4 residence bedrooms plus 2 backup bedrooms. These are all located on the main level.
Everyone deserves dignity during their final chapter. Our generous financial donors and compassionate volunteers ensure that Sunset Cottage runs smoothly, and that patient care is never compromised. All members of management serve as volunteers, and because 100% of donations go directly to the care of our residents, Sunset Cottage patients remain our top priority.
Payable to: Sunset Hospice Cottage
PO Box. 203 Worthington, MN 56187
Both my mother and father passed away at Sunset Hospice Cottage and the facility was a blessing to them and our family. It allowed us to be together through the good times and the hard ones. And enabled us to spend as much time with mom as she wanted without burdening her. Sunset Hospice Cottage provided the professional care, comfortable surroundings and spiritual support that we knew she wanted.
Sunset Hospice Cottage
1935 Woodland Court
Worthington, MN 56187
1 (866) 655-1017 1 (507) 372-7770