Late last year, we learned of an estate gift made to the Avera Cancer Institute by a generous woman who spent the end of her life at our Dougherty Hospice House in Sioux Falls.
Her mother was her closest companion — the person she loved more than anyone in the world. When her mother was diagnosed with cancer, she dedicated her time and energy to caring for her. They would often take long drives together, sometimes talking, sometimes holding hands and putting the stress of cancer on hold for a while. These were some of their most cherished memories.
Months later, the unthinkable happened: the daughter learned she had advanced-stage cancer herself. As her health deteriorated, she entered our hospice house, where her mother joined her shortly after.
Our incredible caregivers treated them both with extraordinary dignity and compassion, even moving their beds together so they could spend their final days in peace, holding hands once again.
The daughter was so deeply grateful for the exceptional care she received from our teams — both at the Avera Cancer Institute and the hospice house — that she wanted every penny of her estate to help future patients experience the same support.
“I would guess that the gift to support oncology was for the sake of the journey that Avera provides,” said our benefactor’s trustee and friend, Cameo Anders. “A journey where they could be together hand-in-hand, where they felt safe and protected, and where they were loved like family.”
To explore legacy giving options for you and your family, visit averalegacy.org or contact us at 605-322-4750.
