Foundation News

Little Grapes

For the last couple years, Rod Evans of Evans Portrait Gallery has photographed hospitalized and special-needs children whose families say the photo shoots changed their lives, turning tough times into images reflecting the strength and essence of their children. Inspired by these young heros, Evans offers his services for free as a way to tell their story while giving back to the community.

Thank you for your generous gift of creativity to enhance the lives of children and families at Avera Children's and for supporting The Big Grape Reserve 2010. Click through the tabs to view the photos and read their stories of triumph.

Chad

Fourteen-year-old Chad Williamson is known for his positive attitude and love of horses. Despite being hit by a truck while riding his bicycle at a local fair, Chad maintained a positive attitude after having his leg amputated below the knee. A mere two weeks after the accident, Chad was being fit for prosthesis and was looking forward to returning home where he could resume his hobbies of riding horses and fishing.

But dealing with the devastation of such a tragic injury dealt a heavy blow to his family, especially his mother Chandra. With recovery well on its way, they soon realized how grateful they were for the care he was receiving at Avera Children's Hospital & Clinics. He was even named the "Avera Children's Champion" - an award for those who demonstrate great strength and courage.

"The care has been wonderful. We're a tight family and we're so grateful for the care we've received to help us get through all of this." Chanda, Chad's mom.

Micah and Jase

Quite the charmers, two year old Jase and his little brother Micah are all smiles and the best of friends. You would never know by looking at their photo they were once fighting for their lives.

Both were born weeks premature and spent time in the Avera McKennan NICU before returning home. Today, they are living proof that there is hope for premature babies. With no developmental delays or evidence of past struggles, the two lovable boys enjoy everything typical brothers do. Their parents are forever grateful for the staff and services offered at Avera Children's, and are looking forward to watching their young sons grow.

"We are truly blessed to have our two little miracles. And we have Avera McKennan to thank for that," says Erin, Jase and Micah's mom.

Watch Avera Medical Minute to learn about the life-saving technology that helped these brothers »

Grace

Ten-year-old Grace is a smart, vibrant little girl who loves being active. But when she returned home from dance class one day with a pain in her shoulder, she quickly became ill and was taken immediately to Avera Children's Hospital where she stayed for almost three weeks. Diagnosed with pneumonia and needing a chest tube, young Grace was in for a long battle.

During those weeks, Grace worked closely with the child life department at Avera Children's to help make a full recovery. One of her favorite activities was syringe painting, where she loaded a medical syringe with paint and made designs on paper.

Today, Grace lives an active life full of sports, music and school activities. Thanks to the staff at Avera Children's, Grace fondly remembers her stay. "The services these child life specialists have provided for Grace has been great," says Grace's father, Fred. "From the recreational activities to education, I really see this program expanding in the future because there is such a great need and benefit."

Ian

Young Ian fights cancer like a Jedi warrior! A typical 6-year-old boy, Ian was awakened early one Thursday morning by a horrible headache. Within an hour, he became unresponsive and was rushed to the Avera McKennan Emergency Department. A mere hour later, Ian was in the midst of a seven-hour surgery to remove a tumor from the back of his head. Diagnosed with a childhood medullobastoma, he spent his time recovering at Avera Children's Hospital & Clinics.

After being treated with a combination of radiation and chemotherapy, Ian was on his way to recovery. Today he is a lively 8-year-old boy who loves Star Wars and has very grateful parents. Ian's mom and dad have remained faithful through this journey and credit the physician's and staff of Avera Children's with being the working hands of God in saving their son's life.

"We want to say thank you to everyone. We cannot express our deepest thanks and appreciation for everyone and everything," says Nicole, Ian's mom.

Watch more on Ian's battle with brain cancer on Avera Medical Minute »