On Dec. 30, 2022, Dan Kathol was having trouble breathing. His wife Marsha quickly called the Hartington, NE, rescue squad. The local EMTs rushed Dan to Avera Sacred Heart Hospital in nearby Yankton, SD.
Everyone in the emergency department worked flawlessly as a team to keep Dan alive. His lungs were filling with blood and fluid and compromised his breathing. Dan doesn’t remember anything about the experience, as he was unconscious the whole time. But Marsha certainly does.
“Dan was revived twice through CPR when he arrived at Avera Sacred Heart. The entire team was so competent, efficient and caring. We were extremely fortunate to have Dr. Dreessen and the entire team there. They literally saved Dan’s life,” said Marsha.
Emergency Transport Leads to Answers
But Dan wasn’t out of jeopardy yet. Avera Careflight was called because he was developing double pneumonia. The highly trained emergency flight team took him on a short flight to Avera McKennan Hospital in Sioux Falls.
Upon arrival, the efficient emergency team stabilized Dan. The next day, his doctors found the cause of his health crisis. He had a faulty aortic valve and would need surgery to replace the valve when the time was right.
The night before Dan's procedure at Avera Heart Hospital, they stayed at the Prairie Heart Guest House in the hospital. What a blessing that was. When Dan’s breathing became labored, the heart team was there almost immediately and saved him again. The next morning, doctors successfully placed a new aortic valve in his heart.
Excellence in Coordinated Care
“Divine intervention was definitely at work throughout my ordeal. Every part of this experience has been incredible. The coordination of my care and quick response to our needs throughout was wonderful. I had amazing doctors and care teams. Each one took the time to listen, respond and make sure we understood what was happening. I received tremendous care at every Avera facility during my health scare. They treated us so well,” said Dan.
People have asked the Kathols why they chose Avera.
"There are other large health systems available, but we chose Avera because of the excellent care we've received, and they know us,” said Dan. “They took care of us during a very difficult time. I am so grateful to all my caregivers at Avera. They gave me my life back so I can continue to do the things that mean the most to me. We are honored to give back and recognize everyone who kept me alive.”
Caring for Life Fund
Donations to the Caring for Life cause help support patients in emergencies or life-threatening situations anywhere in the Avera Health system.