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Our Stories

Donors make an impact. Patients feel the difference it makes in their care and their lives. Here are some of the many stories.

Many patients and families have benefited from the Avera Foundation — and then been inspired to give back. This allows the foundation to meet the health care needs of even more community members across eastern South Dakota and neighboring states. With these gifts, we can help even more people while furthering our mission of the healing ministry of Jesus.

Patient & Family Stories

Avera Race volunteers in the race branded mustang. Racing Forward After losing her mother-in-law to breast cancer, an Avera Race volunteer faced the same diagnosis.
Lana Sinkie smiling in front of a wall of wigs. New Look, Same You Cancer care is complex. You and your loved ones will receive a lot of information. Don’t worry, we’ll be your guide. From treatment to potential side effects, learn about what to expect when becoming a patient.
A group of supporters pose. Survivor's Spirit One woman’s family, friends and workout crew signed up for the Avera Race in her honor.
Lifesaving Pit Stop  Thanks to Careflight, a woman experiencing stroke-like symptoms received acute care quickly.
Unexpected Delivery Mitchell parents received quick transportation to the NICU and important support in their stay.
Telehealth Care Thanks to telehealth, a Marshall patient receives cancer care close to home.
Grateful for Care The quick response and coordinated care of doctors and care teams made all the difference in a crisis.
Place of Comfort Kirby Place offers a welcoming stay while loved ones receive treatment.
Beads for Milestones Patients and loved ones navigating a cancer journey have a memento of support.

Donor Stories

Kelsey Hupp, her husband and son bosing after her son rang the bell after his last chemo treatment. Avera Cares: Kelsey's Story When Avera St. Mary’s Hospital employee Kelsey Hupp, CNP, was struck with unthinkable tragedy, her coworkers embraced her with love and support. Kelsey is one of more than 7,600 fellow Avera employees who support Avera, paying it forward for the generosity she experienced.
Women posing. Leaving a Legacy of Care Over the past year, Avera benefactors have collectively established 40 new legacy gifts, totaling more than $14 million, to advance Avera's health ministry. The long-established DeSchepper Rehabilitation Education Scholarship Endowment helps train the next generation of caregivers.
Ben and Julius Weiner and famiy. Celebrating 75 Years of Care In 1950, a generous gift from Ben and Julius Weiner, in memory of their father Louis, helped establish what is now Avera Marshall Regional Medical Center. Today, 75 years later, their legacy lives on through a renamed family scholarship and a continued commitment to care in the region.
One Inspiring Cause Generous supporters helped raise money to build a surgical suite for moms in labor.
Joyful Giving Together with her husband, a longtime Avera nurse made a legacy gift in celebration of her retirement.
Power of Generosity Work became personal for the director of Avera Cancer Institute in Marshall when her mother was diagnosed.
Home Away from Home A refresh of amenities at Avera Oahe Manor created a space that truly feels like home.
All Hands on Deck Every moment mattered for the team at Avera St. Mary’s Hospital following a bus accident.

More Stories & News: Read more personal accounts of those impacted by the Foundation on the Balance Blog. Stay up to date on the latest news about Avera’s events and services.

Our Gratitude Report

Philanthropy is a key aspect of our strategic plan for the entire Avera Health system. Our 2025 Gratitude Report features stories of inspiration – stories of impact, hope and healing — all powered by the generosity of donors.

Our Stories

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21,038

Total benefactors

4,296

Supporters gave for the first time

3,691

Consecutive-year donors (5+ years)

$59.7 Million

Funds raised in 2025 to support patients, residents and caregivers

View Gratitude Report

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