Page 2 n News from the President

n Avera Surgery Center

Page 3n Cancer Survivor Story

Page 4n Commission on Cancer

Award

n Helmsley Charitable Trust Gift

Page 5n Message of Hope

Page 6-7n Campaign for Hope

Donor List

n Board/Staff

Page 8n The Big Grape Reserve

2010

Page 9n The 22nd Annual

Avera Race

Page 10n Guardian Angel

Page 11n Planning for the Future

Back covern News and Happenings

HuMANiTy SuPPoRTiNG HeALTH CARe

S U M M E R 2 0 1 0

News from the AverA mcKeNNAN

fouNdAtioN

Avera Cancer Institute is dedicated to providing the highest quality of care through prevention and early detection, evidence-based therapies and a multidisciplinary approach, guided by the philosophy of healing the whole person. Assisting and guiding life’s transformation through grace and technology has been a distinguishing factor in treating and meeting the needs of cancer patients and their families. Thankfully, support for the new Avera Cancer Institute continues to provide necessary enhancements to lead the way in cancer care today and well into the future.

But 24 years ago, cancer care was very different. “The cancer services and treatments available today were not available then,” says Judy Davis, breast cancer survivor and long-time supporter of Avera McKennan. She received the diagnosis of inflammatory breast cancer in 1986. Seeing how much cancer care has changed and improved in the past 24 years, she looks to cancer care today with new hope. “We support the Avera Cancer Institute because we are investing in world-class capabilities, services and technology here in Sioux Falls that really improve cancer care,” she adds.

Jim Woster is also a recent cancer survivor. He and Davis share very different cancer journeys, but in the end they both support the same mission: to build hope. “Somewhere in this building a miracle is happening,” says Jim, when recalling his prostate cancer treatments at Avera Cancer Institute four years ago. “And it might be someone close to me.”

Never Give up Hope

“Supporting the

Avera Cancer Institute

is like helping people

you don’t know

you’re going to help.

My hope is to provide

for others – by making

these advancements,

I am providing for the

next generation.”

Continued on page 3

Two Survivors, Two Journeys…One Hope

News from the avera Mckennan Foundation President

W. Tim Kromminga

I t’s event season at the Avera McKennan Foundation and with that comes lots of hard work from everyone to help raise money to support our numerous causes.

in April, the Big Grape Reserve was held at the Museum of Visual Materials. The first year as a stand-alone event, this year’s event raised dollars to support several pediatric programs that enhance the patient/family experience at Avera Children’s Hospital & Clinics. one specific area is the child life program which provides guidance to children during their hospital stays. Patients and their families often find this type of support comforting during stressful times. you’ll have the opportunity to meet one of those patients and learn more about The Big Grape Reserve on page eight of this issue of Human Touch.

With record-breaking numbers, the 22nd Annual Avera Race Against Breast Cancer was a huge success with more than 5,200 participants gathering to brave the wind and cold to show their support in the fight against breast cancer. Thanks to the generous support of our community, local businesses, sponsors and participants, we raised more than $305,000 to support various cancer programs. Such programs and services include prevention, integrative medicine, fitness training, dietary consultation, comprehensive wig program, and breast navigation services. Learn more about these areas by visiting www.averaThinkPink.org or follow us on Facebook for current news, survivor stories and photos.

avera MckeNNaN FouNdaTioN – HuMaN ToucH2

Amenities include: n A check-in desk at the front lobby

that’s easy to find and access.n Processes that ensure lab and imaging

tests are done in advance for a shorter length of stay.

n efficient design and processes so patients can get in for their scheduled procedure in a timely way, and be discharged as soon as possible.

n Comfortable waiting space for families, electronic pagers and a patient tracking system which helps families know where their loved one is in the surgical process.

n Private consultation rooms equipped with video streaming.

Providing an Exceptional Experience avera Surgery center opens

The avera Surgery center also will have access to the ground floor of the aci building, where families can enjoy a fireplace seating area, bistro, indoor garden and peaceful meditation spaces. The new avera cancer institute will open in the fall of 2010.

The new avera Surgery center combines medical expertise and the latest technology with 5-Star service and amenities to provide the optimal patient experience in outpatient or same-day surgery. We deliver comprehensive care at the highest caliber, with care for the whole person and the compassion avera is known for. The avera Surgery center is newly constructed on the avera Mckennan campus.

The new building that houses the Avera Cancer institute and Avera Surgery Center is in its final stages of completion. The Avera Surgery Center will have eight state-of-the-art operating rooms for same-day surgery patients. The new operating rooms will host their first surgeries the first week of July. The Avera Cancer institute will begin offering their care in the new building the middle part of November. Please mark your calendars to celebrate the grand opening gala the evening of october 29.

over the last several years, we have been focusing our efforts on the “Caring for Cancer: Campaign for Hope.” This effort directs fundraising initiatives to support various services and programs offered at the Avera Cancer institute. Thanks to the generosity of our donors, the Avera Cancer institute will house the most advanced technology and become one of the leading cancer centers in the country.

But most important, our donors have funded programs that will improve each patient’s life transformation while supporting their loved ones. Through the use of integrative medicine, such services as aromatherapy, healing touch, massage and art therapy can be offered to each patient. Treating the whole person – body, mind and spirit – furthers the healing ministry of Avera. There are still opportunities to support Avera McKennan and further our gospel mission. on behalf of the Avera McKennan Foundation, thank you for your support and consideration.

Sincerely,

W. Tim Kromminga

SuMMer 2010 3

remember sitting in the hospital

just after having my surgery. i came across

a section in the Argus Leader that said,

‘What are your hopes for the new year?’

i took a moment to think about that

question as doctors didn’t know what

was going to happen to me.

Here’s what i wrote...“

At Avera Cancer institute, treating the whole person – body, mind and spirit – is a key element in enhancing the lives of cancer patients and their families. Many patients feel like they acquire a new family at the Avera Cancer institute. The day you are diagnosed with cancer, you become a survivor.

No matter what type of cancer you may have or what journey you have taken, all survivors share a common thread when being treated at the Avera Cancer institute. Thank you to all the loyal supporters throughout the community for their valued partnerships in building hope. For more information on how you can offer hope through supporting the Avera Cancer

Institute, please call Angie Baszler at (605) 322-8831 or e-mail angie.baszler@avera.org.

R e M e M B e R to Enjoy Today

The Common Thread Patient. Family. Survivors.

It’s not about where we were; it’s about where we are today. Whatever you can do to be part of the miracles happening at Avera Cancer Institute, we value your partnership as we continue the journey. – Jim Woster, Avera McKennan

“”

“I Dear Editor,Recently, I learned that I have a very serious illness. As a result of this, I’ve come to a realization about the importance of certain things in my life.

I now see how important it is to live one day at a time and make each day count. Don’t be so busy living for tomorrow that you forget to appreciate today.

Find something each day to laugh about. Laughter can make things that are unbearable seem not so bad.

It is also important to keep hoping. Hope is as important as love because hope makes tomorrow a reality. No matter how bleak life looks, nothing is ever hopeless.

Therefore, I challenge all of you to make every day count, to laugh and always to hope. - Judy Davis Sioux Falls

outstanding achievement award avera cancer institute strives for excellence in providing quality care to cancer patients and their families. To recognize this level of commitment and dedication, the commission on cancer of the american college of Surgeons recently awarded the avera cancer institute with the 2009 outstanding achievement award. This is the first time avera Mckennan’s cancer program has won the outstanding achievement award and is one of only 81 cancer programs in the nation to receive this prestigious recognition. For the last three years, our program has earned accreditation with commendation from the commission on cancer as a community Hospital comprehensive cancer Program. To achieve the outstanding achievement award, our program had to meet 36 standards in areas such as cancer committee leadership, cancer data management,

clinical services, research, community outreach and quality improvement.

A v E R A C A n C E R I n S T I T U T E :

avera MckeNNaN FouNdaTioN – HuMaN ToucH4

What This Means for Avera…

What This Means for YOU!“We’re very honored to receive the award, which reflects the high level of dedication of our physicians and staff as well as the outstanding quality of our cancer programs. it also reflects avera’s strong commitment to offer cancer services on par with nationally known centers, so that patients can choose to receive the care they need right here at home.” – DR. KiRSTeN eRiCKSoN Chair of Avera’s Cancer Committee

Leading the Way

R a i s i n g t h e B a R : Compassion, Hospitality and Stewardshipavera Mckennan employees Join the campaign for HoPe

Over the past few months, the employee giving campaign at Avera McKennan has been underway, extending the opportunity for those who live out our mission every day to join the Caring for Cancer: Campaign for Hope. We are proud to report more than $500,000 was raised to support cancer programs and services at the Avera Cancer Institute. Thank you to everyone for joining the campaign and demonstrating our mission values through your gift!

Avera Receives $2.5 Million Gift to Help Cancer Patients“This therapy is not available anywhere in South Dakota and only can be found at 12 other locations in the united States. This type of radiation delivered through other methods is not available closer than 230 miles from Sioux Falls and will be a great benefit to many cancer patients in the region.” – DAViD eRiCKSoN, MD Avera’s chief medical officer

As crews continue to build the new Avera Cancer Institute, the construction of advanced cancer treatment is also taking shape, thanks to a multi-million dollar gift made by The Leona M. and Harry B. Helmsley Charitable Trust to enhance cancer care. Over the next two years, nearly $2.5 million will be granted to implement a first-of-its-kind cancer treatment in the region.

This treatment, called Intra-operative Electron-Beam Radiation Therapy, uses a mobile device to deliver high-dose radiation to tumors during surgery. The direct radiation will be administered while on the operating table, reducing the number of treatments while increasing its overall effectiveness. The grant is part of an ongoing effort by trustees of the estate of late billionaire Leona Helmsley to boost health care in rural areas. Funds will be used primarily to assist with equipment and implementation. A clinical research coordinator also will be hired to conduct clinical research trials. The therapy and clinical trials are scheduled to begin in conjunction with the opening of the Avera Cancer Institute on the Avera McKennan campus in fall 2010.

Thanks to generous gifts and support, the Avera Cancer Institute can continue to lead the way in treating cancer and enhancing the patient/family experience.

How You Can Help With the generous support of the local community and donors, the new avera cancer institute can continue to be a healing place like no other; an empowering celebration of life’s transformation through grace and technology. if you are interested in making a gift to support cancer services at avera, please contact the avera Mckennan Foundation at (605) 322-8900 or visit: www.AveraMcKennanFoundation.org

Think Pink Ladies Fill New avera cancer institute With LoveAlthough opening in the fall of 2010, the Avera Think Pink Ladies gave the new Avera Cancer Institute a head-start on offering hope, love and inspiration to all those who will someday walk through the doors. At the Think Pink Hard Hat Brunch in February, the ladies had pink markers in hand to leave a special note inside the unfinished walls of the pending construction. What is now dust and metal is quickly taking shape into a world-class cancer center. And now, thanks to the inspirational offerings of those who have been and who are affected by cancer, hope already exists – months before the doors even open.

Thank you to all who support the Avera Cancer Institute and to our special group of honorary co-chairs for the long-time dedication and support of cancer services at Avera Cancer Institute.

SuMMer 2010 5

- Kristie schreck, 2007 survivor

“Let strength, hope and love

guide you on your journey.”

Jennifer Reiner

“God bless all who work

and heal in this building.”

Js

“I believe there are angels among us.”

Donna scott, 2005 survivor

“May you have courage, strength, faith and most

important, hope.”amber Prunty

“Believe that all things are possible through God.”Jeannie Ostrum

“Be a survivor! You can do all things through Christ Jesus, who strengthens you!”Carol Daly

“how blessed am I to be part

of this healing team at Avera.

Stay fit, well and healthy.

Avera Race Against Breast

Cancer 2010.”

Jackie haggar-tuschen

“hope. having optimism,

perseverance and everlasting

faith, family, friends will

support and uphold.”

Cheryl Prunty

“our God is a God of peace, hope and courage. I pray that you will experience all of his care and love as he meets all of your needs.”Debbie Landreth, 2010

“place your hope in God.”

psalms 43:5

Darla Jacobson

“May God provide

peace, comfort and

healing to all who

enter here.”

traci Rovang

“Live, Laugh, Love and always hope.”Linn Merkley, 22-year cancer survivor

avera MckeNNaN FouNdaTioN – HuMaN ToucH6

The Journey Continues Here… with You!

Thank You for Supporting

avera cancer institute

This past year, many plans and ideas

have become reality as construction

continues on the new Avera Cancer

Institute. We are proud to have

received numerous gifts and support

from loyal individuals, families and

businesses to further our campaign

in building a facility like no other.

Your gifts are needed to continue

providing advanced care, therapeutic

services and survivorship programs

to everyone; to maintain a healing

environment and help everyone with

cancer battle with dignity, hope

and healing.

We need your help today and in

the future. Through prevention,

caring, support and hope, you can

make a difference in rebuilding lives

of people in your community. Thank

you to everyone who has supported

the Avera Cancer Institute and the

foundation. Your commitment and

dedication is making cancer care of

this caliber possible at Avera.

$2,000,000 and above The Leona M. and Harry B.

Helmsley Charitable Trust $1,000,000-$1,999,999 MedXray $250,000-$999,9999 Sioux Falls Construction Company $150,000-$249,999 Dr. Lyndon (+) and Shirley (+) King $100,000-$149,999 Mark and Pat Graham Ron Radermacher Family Jerry and Mary Pat Sweetman $25,000-$99,999 Steve and Betty Crim David and Julie Elson David Flicek and June Nusz Scott and Kristine Gaster Krier & Blain, Inc. Dr. Kelly G. McCaul Olympic Wall Systems Dr. and Mrs. Luis Rojas Tessier’s Inc. Thompson Electric Company Dr. Addison and Keesha Tolentino $10,000-$24,999 Al and Terri Bowden Paul and Mary Ellen Connelly Richard and Sharon Cutler Thomas and Patricia Dempster Egger Steel Company Dr. Kirsten Erickson and

Mr. Patrick Anderson Dr. John and Lisa Griffin Kristin Gross Dr. Mark and Shannon Huber Dr. Dave and Mary Ann Kapaska Dr. Amy K. Krie and Nick Houge W. Tim and Kori Kromminga Landscape Garden Centers Dan and Jean Murphy Nasser Law Offices, P.C. Steven, Patricia, Nicholas and

Erik Olson Charitable Fund Scott and Dr. Patricia Peters Jeffrey and Dr. Kathleen Schneekloth Becky and Keith Severson Soukup Construction, Inc. Cindy Walsh Dale Weir (+) $5,000-$9,999 Architectural Roofing &

Sheetmetal, Inc. Barkley Truck Lines, Inc.

Jason and Angie Baszler Bradley Beck Ken Beekley in memory of

Glenda Beekley Dennis and Julene Beeman Dale and Judy Blauwet Builders Supply Company Mark and Julie Burggraff Susan Collignon-Hodgen Concrete Materials Kent and Carolyn Cutler Phil and Judy Davis Jeff and Julie Dixen Dr. Wade Dosch and

Dr. Mary Meierhenry Gage Brothers Concrete Products Brad and Candace Grossenburg in

memory of LaWayne Grossenburg

Hander, Inc. Ryan and Sara Harris Family John and Sheila Healy Curt and Lisa Hohman Hy-Vee Food Stores Interstate Office Products Paul and Michelle Lavallee Roberto Anel, MD and

Editha Liu-Anel, MD Bill and Judy McLean Richard Molseed Ted and Karen Muenster Dale and Julie Norton Amy Olson Rev. Dr. Joseph A. Dudley (+)

and Avon PowerEric Parry and Dr. Jodi Scott Susan Scott Stan and Dr. Diane Sneed Syverson Tile & Stone Fred Thurman RuthAnn and Hugh VenrickDrs. Brad and Molly Uhing Wells Fargo Bank Jim and Penny Woster $1,000-$4,999 Anonymous Mark and Dr. Josie Alpers Jamayne Altman Automatic Building Controls Avera Cancer Institute Staff Bob and Nan Baker Megan Bartel Michael and Jean Bender Heather Berkhof Monte and Jane Bertsch Katie and Mike Bloom Terri Boggs Julie Brinkman Norvin J. Brown Family Building Sprinkler Inc. Jerry and Mary Bunkers

Dr. Andrew Burchett and Dr. Andrea Miller

Burkey In care of our father Roger E. Carlson Chris and Robin Carlson Nicole Christenson MD and

Rob Keisacker Jr. in honor of Ian Keisacker

Steve and Cathy Clark Charles and Gina Cole Family Paul J. Cordell Jason and Tamara Cox Tessa Curry Ashley Deniger Rhonda and Scott Denney Darold and Lanette Diede Deirdre DiMemmo Marcia and Dale Dobberpuhl Bill Dougherty Kevin and Karen Doyle Karleen and Brad Dykstra Justin and Jennifer Eimers Kristine M. Eitrheim Shaun Faris in memory of

Gary Van Kley James and Sandra Fink Dave and Mary Fleck FM Acoustical Tile Tom and Mary Frederick Virgil S. Gannon Rich and Mary Garry Judy and Dave Gaspar Troy and Angie Geraets Ken and Susan Giegling Grazzini Brothers Jennifer and Erick Grossman Jayne Halli Dorothy Halliday Christina Hanna Ryan and Holly Hansen Linda Harding Tammi and Jon Hawley Heartland Glass Company HenkinSchultz Communication Arts Pat and Steve Herr Tim and Pam Hilber Jamie and Lindy Hill Justin and Julie Hinker Shauna and Mark Hoffman Patrick and Angela Hoffman Doug and Inez Hoisington Daren and Tina Horner Heather and Scott Hubbell Chad and Kari Hultgren Kristen and Chad Hurley Patricia Jagoe and James Hartung Jackie Jasper Misty Jensen Michael and Patrice Jerke Jane R. Justice Ray and Roselyn Kaup Family Cathy and Jeff Kellogg

All gifts through June 4, 2010

+ Deceased

SuMMer 2010 7

Donna and Rick Kiley Mike and Kelly King Sue Knoblock Scott and Jean Knutson Michelle Kolb Alma and Erwin Kooistra Nancy Kremin Julie and John Krolikowski Val and Korey Krull Patricia Kulvik in memory of

Noel Morton Dave and Mary Kuper David Larsen and Karen Heiling Sean Gallup and

Jessica Larsen-Gallup Lori and David Layhee Joe and Mary Leedom Herman and Carol Lerdal Steven and Patricia Lindquist Gale and Marcie Ljunggren Kathleen and Randel Maass Cathy Irene Marvin Jeff Masten John and Molly Mathison Larry and Judy Maxwell Jean M. McDowell Brenda and Ken McFarland Dr. Pat and Kathy McGreevy Ted McKichan Russell McKnight Jim and Terie McLaughlin Family Troy, Kim and Alex Mentzer Emily and Matt Metzger Maggie Metzger Dr. Angela Meyer McKay Keith F. and Joleen M. Miller Bonnie Miller Barrow John and Laurie Mimmack Family Phil and Jolene Moe in celebration

of Malvina Moe Karen Munger Larry and Bonnie Murtha Niki Nemec in honor of Roxy Gross Scott and Shelly O’Farrell Tim and Susie O’Hara Thomas and Dody Otten Victoria Oye Brian Pederson Steve and Vikki Petersen Nancy and Dean Pierson Jessica Porter in loving memory of

Kelly Ryan Feikema Sue Pribbenow Dr. Bruce Prouse and

Dr. Diane Bottolfson Robin Prunty and Brian Hardy Brian Pruss and Mary Kappler-Pruss Paula Pulse R & K Painting & Wallcovering Jennifer Reiner Jason and Stacy Reitmeier Jason and Lacey Roberts and Family

Linda Robinson Dr. Mark and Rene Rodig Melissa and Tyler Roerig Carol and Thomas Rogers Dave and Tammy Rozenboom Mary and Dean Sand Chris and Jamie Schaefer KaraJo and Perry Schneekloth Sherri Schroden in memory of

Brenton Schroden Jill Schultz Julie and David Sendelbach Sara Siemonsma Ron and Renae Skjonsberg Ethan and Misty Small in honor of

Kathy Larue Sandra Smith, MD Deb Soholt Justin and Deona Spicer John and Cindy Srstka Earl and Brenda Stough Jodi and Jason Strand Paul Stratmeyer In loving memory of Janet Street Dr. Tamera L. Sturm and

Mr. Todd Sturm Superl, Inc. Kathy M. Teer Family in honor of

Phyllis Mikkelsen In honor of The Thomas Family Thompson Law, P.C. Ann Thompson Jodie Thorson Mark and Sandi Thorson Reed, Kelli, Brady, Peyton and

Kaylee Timmer Robert and Nikole Trader Erik and Lisa Traxler Family Lola and Paul Twedt Twin City Glass In memory of Marion Van Steenwyk Scott and Laurie VandenBosch Ryan and Kari VanDonge Jeff and Nancy Vavra in memory of

Vilas Miiller Dawn VerHoeven Mark and Sarah Vortherms Dr. Loyd and Donna Wagner Nancy and Jim Walery Scott and Julie Ward in memory of

Dale R. ArelSusan and Prentice Weaver Deb Weets Carol Wehrkamp in honor of

Brad Wehrkamp James and Karri Wiederrich Gary and Jill Wiesner Cheryl and Paul Wildermuth Mary and Kevin Wilson Patricia S. Wirtz, MD Norma and Chuck Wise Ray and Shelli Ybarra

avera Mckennan Foundation800 e 21st StreetSioux Falls, SD 57105

Phone: (605) 322-8900Fax: (605) 322-8905www.averaMckennanFoundation.org

Bob Baker david r. Billionkent r. cutlerJudy davisPat doughertyLisa griffinBrad grossenburgW. Tim krommingaJean Murphy

Luis rojas, MdSusan ScottFred SluneckaSr. Mary Thomascarolyn ThompsonBob TraderHugh venrickcindy Walsh

W. Tim krommingaPresident (605) 322-8901 tim.kromminga@avera.org

angie BaszlerDirector of Development (605) 322-8831 angie.baszler@avera.org

Joelle BrownResearch Development Officer (605) 322-8902 joelle.brown@avera.org

Sarah cadyDirector of Annual Giving (605) 322-8895 sarah.cady@avera.org

Jennifer dumkeMarketing/PR Specialist (605) 322-8856 jennifer.dumke@avera.org

Nancy HeibergerAdministrative Assistant (605) 322-8900 nancy.heiberger@avera.org

Missy keiperAnnual Giving Coordinator (605) 322-8832 missy.keiper@avera.org

kristin McintireData Specialist (605) 322-8903 kristin.mcintire@avera.org

Ted MuensterFundraising Consultant (605) 322-8834 ted.muenster@avera.org

robin Prunty, cPaVice President (605) 322-8833 robin.prunty@avera.org

Avera McKennan Foundation BoARd oF dIRECToRSThe Avera McKennan Foundation is grateful for the leadership provided by the following community and hospital humanitarians who graciously volunteer their time, talents and treasure to impact lives with care, hope and healing.

Avera McKennan Foundation STAFF MEMBERS

our mission is to extend Avera McKennan’s health care healing ministry through lasting relationships with our donors whose stewardship and compassion enable program innovation and development for our friends and neighbors for whom we serve.

Our Mission

avera MckeNNaN FouNdaTioN – HuMaN ToucH8

at avera children’s Hospital, we provide care with compassion and medical excellence. our expert pediatric staff works with parents and other health care providers to give children the best care possible.

To continue our health care mission, we believe each patient, regardless of age, is an important member of our community. So, as a community health care provider, we offer quality hospital and specialty services for infants, children and young adults. We provide all of our pediatric patients with the very best family-centered medical care and work to ensure their safety and privacy.

A Round of APPlAuse!On behalf of the children and families who will benefit from The Big Grape Reserve, we would like to thank the many generous corporate and individual supporters for the event. As we celebrate this year’s success, let us be mindful of the many needs that remain as we continue to enhance the lives of our tiniest patients.

T h e B i g g R A P e R e s e R v e 2 0 1 0caring for the Spirit of children; caring for the Spirit of community

areas that Benefit from THe BiG GRAPe ReSeRVe

Helping Hands: Healing Hearts

Through your generous support, Avera Children’s can fulfill the promise to save lives and care for children, bringing hope and healing to those who need it most through funding in these various areas:

n Services of a Pediatric Social Worker

n Avera Children’s Championn Child Life Programn Family-Friendly Hospital Roomsn Advanced Technology and

equipmentn Patient and Family Financial

Assistance

During those weeks, Grace had to cancel her birthday party due to her hospital stay.

upon discovering the little girl’s disappointment, Child Life Specialists Twila and Leah, at

Avera Children’s, arranged to have a special birthday celebration. But aside from parties,

even daily activities were made special. “every time i was with Twila or Leah, i forgot for a

moment that i was even in the hospital,” Grace says of her experience with the Child Life

Specialists. 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

Child Life Specialists and staff at Avera Children’s, Grace fondly remembers her stay

and is on her way to making a full recovery. Her experience would not have been

the same without people like you who help support the Child Life Program through

The Big Grape Reserve!

Ten-year-old Grace is a smart, vibrant little girl who loves being

active. But when she returned home from dance class last May 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. GraceAmazinG

Portraits generously provided by evans Portrait gallery.

Patients and Families Who Benefit from THE BIG GRAPE RESERVE

the Big grape Reserve 2010

ThAnks To you, The Big Grape Reserve 2010 was a huge success, raising nearly $85,000 to benefit children and families at Avera Children’s Hospital & Clinics. your efforts have a tremendous impact on the health and lives in our community.

SuMMer 2010 9

T H E A V E R A R A C E A G A I n S T B R E A S T C A n C E RTHANK you for making the 22nd Annual Avera Race Against Breast Cancer a big success! This year 5,228 participants hit the pavement to raise more than $305,000 which will enhance the lives of breast cancer patients and their families.

The 2010 Avera Race Against Breast Cancer is once again proud to continue the tradition of contributing 100% of all donations to enhance cancer care for people right here in Sioux Falls and our neighboring communities.

Live With...Prevention.the avera Race is proud to help ensure that all women have access to regular screening mammograms regardless of their ability to pay. in addition to these digital mammograms using state-of-the-art technology, the avera Breast Center provides advanced breast diagnostic equipment and imaging tools.

Well-Being.the avera Race cares for the mind, body and spirit. Funds support integrative therapies like guided imagery, therapeutic touch, massage, rhythmic breathing, aromatherapy and more to complement traditional medical treatments that cancer survivors need.

THaNk You…for furthering our mission and ensuring that all women have access to regular screening mammograms, state-of-the art technology for early detection and enhance the quality of life for all people with cancer and their families. Through generous partnerships with our loyal supporters and community, the Avera Race Against Breast Cancer continues to lead the way in fighting cancer.

Physicians at

avera Race proceeds also fund specially trained staff certified to provide necessary fitness training and dietary consultations to cancer patients.

Style.“i look like me!” improving the quality of life for cancer survivors is a fundamental goal of the avera Race. since 2006, the comprehensive wig program at the avera Cancer institute provides attractive, comfortable wigs at no charge to all patients undergoing cancer treatment.

Power. avera Race enhances lives through all stages of cancer, even after treatment. “A Time to Heal” is a rehabilitation program designed to help women regain their physical, emotional and spiritual health after breast cancer treatment.

Funds also support the Breast Health Conference, which offers peace of mind to cancer patients through weekly case reviews with our interdisciplinary team. they then fully discuss and explore options and share knowledge for each patient. together, they create custom treatment plans to attack the cancer in a way that best suits the individual case. this teamwork approach ensures that every treatment option is explored and evaluated to best fit each patient.

other areas funded through the Avera Race include:

n Breast Health Navigation Programn Patient/Family Financial Assistancen Community Cancer Resource Libraryn All Women Count Programn Genetic Testing

images from the 2010 avera Race against Breast Cancer

Missed the race? don’t worry! Save THe daTe “May Seven in Eleven” will be the best race yet!The Avera Race Against Breast Cancer n May 7, 2011

avera MckeNNaN FouNdaTioN – HuMaN ToucH10

These words all describe ernie Johnson, who recently was diagnosed with multiple myeloma. What else describes this proud member of the Navaho Tribe? Grateful. “Thank you doesn’t even begin to say enough for how i feel for all the people who helped me,” says ernie, who was first diagnosed with multiple myeloma last March and began receiving treatment at avera cancer institute.

as if the devastating diagnosis of cancer wasn’t enough, ernie was recently unemployed and struggled financially. “it’s difficult enough dealing with cancer,” he adds, “but i can’t imagine going through this alone.” He soon started working with social services at avera Mckennan. “Because i couldn’t work, it was getting harder and harder to keep up. i couldn’t believe it when i was told there was help available through the foundation. it was like a dream come true.” ernie received financial assistance through The virginia (Boler) Flicek Multiple Myeloma and the Melinda camber Porter ovarian cancer endowment—which was established to help cancer patients like ernie.

Today, ernie is where he’s at in life because of the support from a lot of people. “The day i was diagnosed with multiple myeloma, i immediately acquired a new family; the nurses, physicians, caregivers and patient advocates at avera Mckennan and also those who have made contributions to the avera Mckennan Foundation.” Not only do gifts made to the foundation support cancer patients during times of need, they also fund vital programs at the avera cancer institute to enhance healing by incorporating the arts into the health care experience—something ernie has directly benefited as an artist himself.

“cancer will always be a part of my life and will forever influence my work from now on,” says ernie, who is participating in the 12-week holistic support group “Time to Heal” where he can be an artist. “My painting is a form of therapy. Not only is it good for my joints, but there is a lot behind my art that’s really amazing.”

a celebration of art, survivorship and most important, family—ernie is now celebrating his journey after receiving a bone marrow transplant and continues to paint and be thankful for those who have supported him during his journey. “i know i can never repay all that was done for me,” he adds. But through his gift of art, ernie feels he can give back in some way and honor those who’ve given to support the mission of avera Mckennan.

Artist. Community Member. Survivor.

he day I was diagnosed with

multiple myeloma, I immediately acquired

a new family; the nurses, physicians,

caregivers and patient advocates at

Avera McKennan and also those

who have made contributions to the

Avera McKennan Foundation.”

– ernie Johnson, Grateful Patient

How Can I Honor a guardian angel aT avera MckeNNaN

With the guardian angel program, you have the opportunity to honor the avera Mckennan doctor, nurse, housekeeper or other caregiver who made a difference in your visit or stay. Your gift to avera Mckennan may support an area of special meaning to you and your family. You may also make a gift in honor or memory of a loved one.

When you contribute financially to avera Mckennan Foundation, you show your appreciation in a way that will help others receive outstanding care. The effects of your kindness are profound and far-reaching. Your gift helps change lives.

For more information on the Guardian Angel program or to make a gift, please contact Sarah Cady, director of annual giving, at (605) 322-8895 or visit www.AveraMcKennanFoundation.org.

“ THonor Your

11

Planning for the Future

A breast cancer survivor since 2008, Kris Gross understands first-hand the importance of giving back to support cancer services and programs at Avera Cancer institute. Recently, The Kristin S. Gross endowment was established to support an area close to her heart. Along with her family and friends, Kris believes in the services and programs offered at the Avera Cancer institute and is aware of the blessings and benefits provided to its patients and their families.

Kristin Gross has dedicated her life to helping others. Now, she’s guaranteed that her contributions will continue to help. As regional information officer at Avera McKennan and former

Avera McKennan Foundation board member, she has made a habit of giving throughout her health care career. During 17 years at Avera McKennan, Gross has generously provided annual support as well as major gifts for the Dougherty Hospice House and the new Avera Cancer institute.

ultimately, though, she wants to give more. Kris has established the Kristin S. Gross endowment which she is supporting now and in the future. This endowment will be the beneficiary of her estate and Kris will be assisting programs that benefit cancer patients forever. When it comes to providing for Avera’s mission, she believes that philanthropy starts at home.

SuMMer 2010

Family Matters: Fulfilling a Promise Growing up, Dave Flicek often recalls memories of his mother’s giving spirit. When she passed away some years ago, the Flicek family knew exactly how to honor their mother Virginia, who suffered from multiple myeloma and received cancer care at Avera Cancer Institute. An endowment was created in her memory and soon, the devastating loss of another family member battling cancer added to the endowment, which today is called The Virginia Boler Flicek Multiple Myeloma and Melinda Camber Porter Ovarian Cancer Endowment at the Avera McKennan Foundation.

Together, this endowment provides assistance to multiple myeloma and ovarian cancer patients receiving treatment at Avera Cancer Institute. “My mother and sister-in-law would be so proud that this fund is providing assistance to other cancer patients,” says Dave Flicek. “Melinda had an interest in Native American culture and a passion for the arts; this endowment supports cancer programs that use art as healing.” To ensure this fund lives on well into the future and to encourage additional gifts, Dave recently made plans for a charitable life insurance policy. Because Avera owns the policy and also is the primary beneficiary, Flicek’s premium payments are tax-deductible. The proceeds from his policy will benefit the endowment and provide support to patients at Avera McKennan forever. “My mother was always giving to others. She was the glue that always brought us together and now she is still bringing us together in her memory with gifts made to the endowment.”

Each year, the family reviews how gifts made through the endowment have impacted cancer patients while supporting the mission of Avera McKennan and rests assured their mother would be proud.

“Supporting Avera McKennan through a planned gift as well as annual gifts

is important to me because it ensures that the endowment made in memory

of my mother and sister-in-law will live on well into the future and hopefully

encourage more gifts.”

– DaVe FLiCeK

“There is a lot of emphasis on the mission at Avera

McKennan. I believe we should lead by example… by

giving what we can. When you give to the foundation,

you know you’re supporting a great mission.” – KRis gROss

A Past Battle, A Future Gift:the Kristin s. gross endowment

Flicek Family Reunion 2005 (Virginia Boler Flicek is seated center, Melinda Camber Porter is standing, second from right).

avera Mckennan Foundation800 e 21st Street, P.o. Box 5045 Sioux Falls, SD 57117-5045 www.AveraMcKennanFoundation.org

NoN-PRoFiT oRGu.S. Postage

PAIdPermit No. 666Sioux Falls, SD

if you wish to have your name removed from the list that requests support for avera Mckennan Hospital & university Health center, please write to the avera Mckennan Foundation at 800 e 21st Street, Sioux Falls, Sd 57105

For the third year, avera children’s Hospital & clinics hosted a remembrance ceremony in hopes of bringing grieving families together to honor and remember their loved ones. With the help of the Avera McKennan Foundation, this private, non-denominational Christian ceremony was free and available to all families and friends of children from the time of conception through age 18 who left this world to join their heavenly Father.

The afternoon included a short welcome, a sharing of a personal experience by the host family, a staff tribute, a short meditation and a reception that ended with the ceremonial butterfly release. During the ceremony, sibling care was provided and the children were allowed to make and take a craft in memory of their siblings. each year, numerous families reunite with each other and their caregivers to pay special tribute for their losses and celebrate life by releasing butterflies. Thank you to all who support the Avera McKennan Foundation. your gifts make it possible for so many families, including moms, dads, siblings, and grandparents, to celebrate the life that was lost regardless of how short that life was.

A fundraiser by any other name would not smell as sweet – or raise more than $21,000 to benefit Avera McKennan hospice. The annual “Roses… Just Because” fundraiser sold over 1,000 long stemmed roses to help continue the compassionate care for our hospice patients and their families. Thanks to everyone who purchased roses! Roses...

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