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

Kristen’s Story

Site created on January 27, 2019

Welcome to Kristen’s CaringBridge site. We are using it to keep family and friends updated in one place. You can also leave comments and well wishes for Kristen to read when she can.

In December 2018, Kristen went to the ER with abdominal pain. In an unfortunate surprise, we discovered that the pain was caused by several large masses in her liver. We now know that she has intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma, a type of cancer that originates in the bile ducts of the liver. It’s a rare and aggressive cancer that is typically treated with chemotherapy. You can follow along with updates posted in the Journal Entries section, or read more about bile duct cancer here: https://www.cancer.org/cancer/bile-duct-cancer.html

We have been blown away by the generosity of our loved ones, colleagues and even complete strangers since we learned of Kristen's diagnosis. We are so grateful for your support and love, your words of hope and encouragement mean the world to us. Please know that we are not looking for gifts and we are not accepting donations. Some people have asked us for ways that they can help; in lieu of flowers, we listed a few suggestions under the "Ways to Help" tab.

Also note that the Caring Bridge "Donate in honor of Kristen" links and other solicitations go to the Caring Bridge site, not to Kristen. We ask that if you are looking to donate to a good cause, please consider the Cholangiocarcinoma Foundation (https://cholangiocarcinoma.org), a truly incredible organization that has already helped us more than we could have imagined.

xoxo Kristen & Raeann

Newest Update

Journal entry by Raeann Bourscheid — Nov 5, 2019

An update to the details -

We will be having an open house in Salt Lake City on Sunday, November 17 from 3-8pm at our home.

As noted in the obituary, Sioux Falls services will be held on Wednesday, November 13 from 5-9pm at Fernson Brewery (1400 E Robur Dr, Sioux Falls, SD 57104).

Please feel free to share this information with anyone who would like to celebrate Kristen's life with us, all are welcome.

Read More of the journal titled "November 5, 2019 - Memorial services"

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

Help Kristen Stay Connected to Family and Friends

A $25 donation to CaringBridge powers a site like Kristen'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