Honor Your Guardian Angel

Angel Stories

Each donation to the Avera McKennan Foundation comes with its own story of caring and appreciation. If you are considering giving to Avera, take a moment to read donor stories that highlight the importance of giving and the very special rewards that come back to the donor in feelings of pride and fulfillment. Click through the tabs to read Guradian Angel stories of gratitude.

Anderson

"I was 31 weeks pregnant with my second child when I was admitted into the Avera Women's Center after experiencing contractions. After being told there was a good chance I would be delivering that day, I immediately called my husband and the nurses paged Dr. Rogers. He came into the room with a calm manner yet explained his concerns to us. I felt nothing was more important to him at that time than me and my unborn child. Feeling his wisdom with every word he spoke, I found comfort.

I remained on bed rest and delivered our beautiful baby boy, Rylon Shawn a few days later. Since that time, Dr. Rogers has continued to discuss Rylon's progress and explained issues we should be aware of. I just want to thank him so much for his knowledge, love, compassion and caring. He made this rough road a little smoother!"

Sincerely,
Dawn Anderson

Beekhuizen

"Thank you so much for taking care of our two sons when they were born weeks premature. Our first son, Jase, was born weighing only one pound, 12 ounces. He spent weeks in the NICU where he was cared for in a Giraffe OmniBed--a specialized incubator that provides the most advanced environment for critically ill babies. We were very afraid and remember the hours spent watching him while thinking of the bible verse that assured us he was 'fearfully and wonderfully made'.

Thanks to the loving staff and great care, Jase made a full recovery and today is the picture of perfect health. We are forever grateful. Years later, we encountered another scare when our second son was born early. Luckily, he only spent days in the NICU but were once again blown away by the love and support at Avera McKennan.

The staff at Avera McKennan are truly Guardian Angels for our entire family. Jase and Micah are living proof there is hope for premature babies."

Sincerely,
Erin and Derek Beekhuizen

Richards

"My husband and I wish to extend our heartfelt thanks to each and every employee and volunteer at Avera McKennan. Each department showed great pride in their work and we are so grateful for the comforting care we received when our grandson, Kevin Morsching, was in the hospital as a result of a traumatic brain injury in 2007.

We don't know how to say enough complimentary comments about our stay at the hospital. We will spread the word of the positive support we received during the most difficult week of our lives.

We were always assured that we were in the best place medically and spiritually for Kevin's welfare and treatment. All hospitals could learn something from Avera McKennan. You are all very caring and true health care professionals."

Sincerely,
Thad and Betty Richards

Scott

"How appropriate that Del is being honored as a Guardian Angel! To this day, I refer to her as one of my 'angels'. After being diagnosed with breast cancer, I felt that losing my hair was as traumatic as the chemotherapy itself. I found in Del someone who knows a lot about wigs, and more importantly, she is a sensitive, caring person who made me feel good.

She helped me choose a wig that looked a lot like my own hair. She did such a good job that on more than one occasion, I heard the comment; "at least you didn't lose your hair." When I put my wig on, I felt 'normal' and no longer felt like a cancer patient.

Del always seems to do it right and I am forever grateful!"

Sincerely,
Donna Scott

Meyer

"The medical staff at Avera McKennan are living proof that healing comes from the Lord through their healing ministry. On September 5, 2008, I was involved in a near-fatal car accident where I suffered life threatening injuries. For five hours, surgeons worked to repair my internal injuries. My condition eventually required amputation of my left leg below the knee. During the procedure, surgeons discovered carcinoid cancer in my liver and small bowel.

Thanks to my strong faith and care from the Avera cancer specialists, I am here today to tell my story. I am forever grateful to the caregivers at Avera McKennan for saving my life and their continued dedication in my recovery.

The caregivers at Avera McKennan are people of character who display a servant's heart and attitude. I think of them as my Guardian Angels."

Sincerely,
Coach Don Meyer