Avera McKennan Hospital & University Health Center

The 17th annual Harvest of Hope food drive wrapped up last week and teams from all over the Sioux Falls area made their mark! This year, we were able to provide 611 meals to families in need in our community. These meals were made possible by all of you donating your time, money, groceries and your willingness to serve. Thank you also to all the volunteers that helped on the receiving and distribution days!

On National Rural Health Day, we’re proud to bring hope to patients and families across our region by providing access to the latest cancer treatments. Avera Cancer Institute in Sioux Falls offers Phase 1 cancer trials: innovative treatments being given to humans for the first time. This rare opportunity for a community cancer center ensures that no matter where patients begin their journey, they can find hope and possibility on the road ahead. Learn more about our commitment to rural health at https://lnkd.in/gH5hR53R.

This week we celebrated Anneliese Glickley BSN, RN at the Avera McKennan Behavioral Health Hospital for being selected as our newest DAISY Award recipient! Annaliese’s nomination states: “After interacting with Anneliese, I discovered a new outlook in life. Hope and motivation burrowed into my troubled mind. I hope someday I can have that same passionate love Anneliese has for herself and others. And I hope someday I’ll inspire others like she inspired me.” The DAISY Award for extraordinary nurses is given to nurses who go above and beyond in their care and compassion and Anneliese is the personification of these traits. Well deserved, Anneliese, and thank you for all that you do!

Congratulations to the November Avera McKennan Employee of the Month Kristy Peterson! Kristy is an Overnight Chef at Cafe 1325. "She will often stay after her shift to have friendly chats with others and demonstrates a genuine care for her fellow-co-workers." Thanks for all you do, Kristy!

Today, we honor our employees, patients, families and neighbor for the sacrifices they made while serving in the United States Armed Forces. The unique bond shared by those who have served transcends time and circumstance. We are proud to be a small piece of Lt. Clare Peschong and Boiler Operator II Jim Shea's story while they fight a new adversary. Thank you to all veterans in our community and their families who stand beside them.

We would like to recognize Jack and Ella Timm as the November volunteer of the month. They have been volunteering for over 12 years. During this time they have contributed over 2,500 hours of service together at the Dougherty Hospice House and Avera @Home. They have been in incredible asset to the team doing everything from making cookies, feeding patients, greeting visitors, and seeing patients in their homes or other facilities. Thanks for all you do!

Congratulations to Karen Feterl BSN, RN in the Avera McKennan Infusion Center for being selected as our newest DAISY Award Recipient! Karen’s nomination states: “Karen stuck out differently from the rest of the staff. She always greeted me with her bubbly personality. Karen was not just a nurse, person, or friendly face – she was like family. When I walked down the hallway and would see her I was so relieved and happy. I knew I was going to get the best care. Karen often went out of her way to stick her head in the room to make sure I was provided the best care. Karen took the time to explain every little thing about the process of infusions. She once told me, “When I see you on our schedule, I fight over you." Her compassion and empathy for her job does not go unnoticed. She is truly a gift from god, an angel on earth.” The DAISY Award for extraordinary nurses is given to nurses who go above and beyond in their care and compassion and Karen is the personification of these traits! Well deserved, Karen, and thanks for all that you do!

With the scoop of some green shovels and brightly colored sand, we have officially broken ground on the new six-story women’s and children’s tower at Avera McKennan! ?? “Avera has been investing in women’s and children’s care for decades, with a wide range of services and specialties. Today, we’re bringing them together like never before.” – Dr. Ron Place, President, Avera McKennan When the new tower opens in 2027, it will support growth in pediatric and women’s care in the area – and also serve as the new front entrance of our hospital. At the groundbreaking, Avera also announced Tomorrow’s Promise, a $50-million fundraising campaign to support women’s and children’s services across the Avera region. Learn more at Avera.org/McKennanFuture.

Earlier this month, Avera McKennan Regional President & CEO Ron Place was honored by his alma mater, the University of South Dakota, with an Alumni Legacy Award for Public Service. Dr. Place was one of five honorees that received awards in various categories including Public Service, Emerging Leader, Professional Achievement, Service to the University and Legacy Family of the Year. Dr. Place, Class of 1986, spent nearly 37 years in service of our country. Originally from Huron, SD, Dr. Place completed his Bachelor of Science in Chemistry and received an ROTC commission at the University of South Dakota. Upon retirement from the military, Dr. Place chose to continue his service as the Regional President & CEO of Avera McKennan Hospital and University Health Center and we are blessed to have his leadership in stewarding the Avera mission. Our sincere congratulations to Dr. Place on this terrific honor!

New parents were treated to a pop-up baby boutique in the Women's Center this weekend! Hosted by former NICU moms, the event gave parents at the NICU and Labor and Delivery the chance to fill a box with new clothes and baby essentials. Each item was donated by Avera staff, local shops or former NICU families.