We have detected that JavaScript is currently disabled. CaringBridge is best viewed with JavaScript enabled.

Jim’s Story

Site created on June 13, 2023

Welcome to the CaringBridge site for Jim Ylinen!

As many of our family and friends know, Jim has battled numerous health conditions over the years. His first major health scare happened many years ago in 2003 when he had his first stroke. This left him needing to re-learn how to walk. Years later in 2015, on Easter morning, Jim had a massive seizure at home that led to the discovery of a benign brain tumor. He underwent surgery to remove most of it, but the tumor and surgery had lasting effects on his mind and body. Since then, the list of his health crises has grown: diabetes, heart attacks, kidney cancer, sepsis, pneumonia, blood clots, coronary artery disease, heart surgery, peripheral neuropathy, edema, and broken bones. Despite these challenges, he has always persevered.

Jim has shown immense strength throughout these many challenges, but his true strength comes from his wonderful, devoted, caring wife, Barb. She has been so steadfast in her care for her husband. Jim would not be here today if it weren’t for Barb’s keen eye to detect subtle changes in his health.

Recently, Jim had been growing weaker when transferring from his wheelchair to his chair, commode, and bed. He also has become more confused and disoriented. This combination led to a fall last Tuesday night. Barb called 911 and the EMTs brought Jim to Lakeview Hospital in Stillwater. He was later transferred to Regions Hospital in St. Paul for further evaluation.

After doing several scans and tests, the doctors determined that Jim had developed a terminal glioblastoma. This fast-growing and aggressive brain tumor spans both hemispheres of his brain. The doctors delivered very heart-breaking news: Jim’s life expectancy is 3-6 months at most. As the tumor continues to grow, he will become more confused and lose his ability to function. This process has already started as he has had horrible moments of confusion and paranoia while in the hospital.

Barb and family have made the difficult decision to transition Jim to hospice care. At this time, we are not sure what this process will look like for Jim, but we are so grateful for the wonderful hospice team at Regions Hospital. Our goal is to safely provide Jim comfort and security.

We ask for love, support, and prayers for Jim & our family as we all walk through Jim’s end of life journey together. We will provide updates as they unfold.

Thank you all,

The Ylinens

Newest Update

Journal entry by Sara Ylinen — Jun 17, 2023

Jim is finally at peace. He passed away just after midnight on June 17th at The Pillars hospice facility.

Jim had been at Regions since he was first diagnosed with the glioblastoma, waiting on a hospice bed to open up. When the Pillars offered him a spot, Barb's heart was at ease knowing he would be in good hands. It is a beautiful place and the staff are absolutely wonderful! We are very grateful for the experience we had there.

Jim transfered to the Pillars around 10am on The 16th. The team at Regions gave him some medication to help sedate him for the ride. Once he got to hospice, he stayed asleep. His breathing became raspy, his pulse was thready & weak, and his skin started to mottle: all signs that the end was near.

Family spent time with him while he rested.

Barb got a call shortly after midnight from the nurse saying that Jim's breathing was concerning and she encouraged her to come back to the facility soon if she could. By the time Barb put her sweater on, she got another call that he had passed on.

Please keep the Ylinen family in your prayers as we grieve this great loss.

Read More of the journal titled "Peace "

Patients and caregivers love hearing from you; add a comment to show your support.

Help Jim Stay Connected to Family and Friends

A $25 donation to CaringBridge powers a site like Jim's for two weeks. Will you make a gift to help ensure that this site stays online for them and for you?

Comments Hide comments

Read More Journal Entries

Show Your Support

See the Ways to Help page to get even more involved.

Personal Fundraiser

Support Links

Helpful Requests

Go to Ways to Help