Valery Hansen

On Wednesday, March 23rd 2016 Valery was found wandering around Alabany HIgh School where she was the choir instructor.  She did not know where she was and seemed completely discombobulated. The decision was made to rush her to the hospital.  Valery was there for just a short time and was discharged after a few hours in the ER. Subsequently after her discharge, Valery collapsed in the St. Cloud Hospital parking lot.  Because this particular fall caused her to knock her head, an MRI was scheduled. It was the result of this MRI that would change our lives. Valery was diagnosed with Malignant Neoplasm of the Brain.  In other words: an inoperable brain tumor in her frontal lobe.


The next few days were a whirlwind.  During her original diagnosis, because of the size and aggression of the tumor, (it was the size of a tennis ball), we were told we would be lucky to have three to six months.  Not willing to give up, Valery went to the Mayo Clinic and began to receive exceptional care. She began her chemo treatments and they surprisingly went very well. They went so well that in fact that although her tumor was there as it always would be, her doctor stated that she was in remission.


During her time in remission, Valery fortunately was able to go to Branson with her husband, Gary.   In addition Valery had the opportunity to go to South Carolina with her siblings and nephew. She made beautiful memories and had an incredible time on both trips.  She also was able to do one of her favorite things: spend quality time with her grandchildren.


This past January, Valery went in for another MRI and it was discovered that she had glioma of the brain, in other words she had another tumor on a different spot on her brain.  Valery immediately began chemo, but unfortunately this round did not go well. Valery grew weak, had a hard time moving and was in constant pain. Her health continued to deteriorate.  The decision was made to bring Valery in to the hospital. From the hospital Valery was transported to the Cold Spring Nursing Home as she was unable to continue to care for herself. This past Wednesday, the family came together and were told that Valery was going to be with us for less than six months.  

That brings us to now.  


Valery is soon to start hospice care.  She will remain in her room at the nursing home as familiarity is the best thing for her right now.  More than anything she loves visitors. We encourage all visitors! Here is the information on how to visit Valery:



Cold Spring Assumption Community

715 1st St N, Cold Spring, MN 56320  

Room: S13 in the South Cove


Best Visiting Hours:

9:00 AM-11:00AM

12:30 PM -4:30 PM

6:00 PM -8:00 PM


**Important Visiting Notes**


Next to Valery’s bedside is a notebook.  Please be sure to sign in so she can look back and remember you were there.  You are also welcome to take a picture with her and the Ipad. She enjoys looking back at the pictures and seeing who was there with her.


Valery’s short term memory is obsolete.  She may introduce you or ask you the same questions a dozen times. She is also having a hard time with her speech and may slur or spell words while visiting with you.  


Outside food, flowers, etc are all allowed.  Although your presence is gift enough for Valery, you are welcome to bring items in to brighten her room.  


As a family we want to thank any and all who are able to visit our mom.  If you know mom at all, you know she loves to talk and visit those she cares about.  Thank you for making this time in her life a special one!