Avera McKennan Hospital & University Health Center

09/05/2025

July was a booming month for babies at Avera McKennan Hospital & University Health Center! 🍼 Avera McKennan had 230 babies born in July, breaking the previous record of 224 births in August of 2017. Congratulations to the Labor & Delivery team!

09/04/2025

We would like to recognize Bette Theobald as the September volunteer of the month. Bette has been a volunteer for a little over 3 years and has contributed 443 hours. She has dedicated her time volunteering at the ACI lab, Registration, Imaging Center and most recently the Surgery waiting room.

Bette has such a calming presence and a welcoming demeanor in the surgery waiting room. She provides support and comfort to all of the surgical patient’s families and loved ones while they wait.

Thanks for all you do, Bette!

09/03/2025

Congrats to our latest TULIP winner, Angie Lozano. Angie was nominated for a TULIP award during her time at Behavioral Health as a Patient Care Technician. Angie was nominated by a patient that stated “I prayed for wisdom & God sent me Angie, I will always remember her and her impact on my life.

09/03/2025

Join us in congratulating Tim Steppan, Security Officer at Avera McKennan, on receiving the Employee of the Month award for September.

As a Security Officer, Tim is on the frontlines working in some very challenging situations. Tim demonstrates compassion and professionalism each day, regardless of the task at hand.

Thank you for everything that you do, Tim!

09/01/2025

At Avera, Sept. 1 is a time to honor the strong values handed down to us from our Founders, the Benedictine and Presentation Sisters. This year carries special meaning as we mark 25 years since the Benedictine Health System and Presentation Health System came together as one ministry in 2000. The sisters express their heartfelt gratitude for the work each member of our team does to carry the Avera mission forward and make a difference in the lives of those we serve in the video below. Happy Founders Day!

08/28/2025

Sue Strand is getting back on her feet after years of searching for answers. Following a corrective surgery, she joined a life-changing clinical trial for pain management. Learn more about Sue's condition and the unique therapy that had her dancing for joy in this week's Avera Medical Minute at https://bit.ly/4n73a38.

08/27/2025

We've all heard that potassium is good for preventing muscle cramps, but did you know it plays an even more essential role in our diet? Benefits include:
🍌 Lowered chance of stroke or heart attack
🥦 Regulated blood pressure
🍅 Improved kidney function
Learn how low potassium could be impacting your health and how to add more of this electrolyte to your daily meals at https://bit.ly/3UNNQMw.

Most people need more potassium in their diets. That’s because it plays a big role in keeping your body functioning smoothly. Learn the best foods to boost your levels.

08/27/2025

Our NICU nurses are gearing up for their 2nd Annual Read-a-Thon but they need your help! They are accepting new book donations so every baby born at Avera McKennan can go home with a new book. You can purchase a book from their Amazon Wish List at https://amzn.to/4n2g1Dq.

08/26/2025

From unpredictable hours to financial pressures, life on the farm comes with challenges that can take a toll on mental health. Asking for help isn't always easy, but Avera's Farm and Rural Stress Hotline is available for support. Karl Oehlke, an Avera Behavioral Health physician assistant and a farmer, shares why many in agriculture hesitate to seek help and how this resource can make a difference at https://bit.ly/4mrZYPs.

08/21/2025

Jay Wempe doesn't have to travel far for cutting-edge cancer care. By joining the new clinical trials offered at the Avera Cancer Institute in Mitchell, SD, he's receiving quality colon cancer treatment close to home. Learn about Jay's cancer journey and how the team in Mitchell is making his treatment easier in this week's Avera Medical Minute at https://bit.ly/4fRjuT4.

08/20/2025

Yesterday we celebrated the annual physician's picnic at Avera McKennan, Avera Prince of Peace, Avera Behavioral Health, the Avera Addiction Care Center and the Avera Specialty Hospital.

It was a beautiful day for food and fellowship to celebrate all of the employees that make our mission possible.

Thanks to everyone for coming out for a delicious and fun lunch!

08/19/2025

Kids are heading back to school this week while enterovirus is on the rise. 🦠 Dr. Daniel Boadwine, an Avera pediatrician, explains what you should be on the lookout for and what you can do to prevent your child from bringing it home at https://bit.ly/473Yk1K.

08/15/2025

If you're like many area gardeners, you've got zucchini piling up! This garden favorite is healthy, versatile and ready for your plate. Check out these fresh recipes to turn your surplus into something delicious at https://bit.ly/45hK7gh.

08/14/2025

This morning, the Sioux Falls School District kicked off the year by recognizing our long-standing partnership. Avera Behavioral Health plays an integral role in the school district by partnering on initiatives like Family Forums.

We look forward to continuing our support of local Sioux Falls schools as we work together to create a healthy environment for every student.

08/13/2025

From missing milestones to unpopular dinners, moms can be their own toughest critics, but you're doing better than you think. Give yourself a pep-talk by remembering these tips:
❤️ Aim for a B+: the perfect mom doesn't exist! Give yourself some grace.
❤️ Avoid isolation: connect with other moms, in-person. They'll understand your struggles.
❤️ Embrace the mess: own your mistakes and move on.
❤️ Erase the stigma: it's okay to ask for help!
Learn more tips for coping with parental misgivings and how to connect with an expert at https://bit.ly/3HvTiR6.

08/12/2025

Helping your student cope with new teachers and unfamiliar routines can get their school year off to a great start. Amanda Enestvedt, a certified pediatric nurse practitioner from Avera Marshall Regional Medical Center, shares tips to recognize back-to-school anxiety and help your child feel better about the new year at https://bit.ly/4mDFG58.

08/10/2025

Avera teamed up with the Greater Sioux Falls Chamber of Commerce and other local businesses for Ag Appreciation Day at the Sioux Empire Fair/W.H. Lyon Fairgrounds this week. 🌾 Volunteers welcomed thousands of farmers and their families with take-home goodies and provided information about Avera's Farm and Rural Stress Hotline. Thank you to all the farmers for your hard work and dedication! 💚

08/08/2025

Safety comes first on the construction site of the new Women's and Children's tower on the Avera McKennan campus in Sioux Falls, SD. 👷 Journey Group and Sioux Falls Fire Rescue teamed up for a simulated crane emergency drill. We are proud this new building project is already providing our community with beneficial opportunities.

08/07/2025

Dawn Sampson is making positive lifestyle changes after a robotic-assisted hysterectomy in Mitchell, SD. Thanks to the new-to-the-area technology, her procedure was less invasive and her recovery was faster. Learn about Dawn's journey and the benefits this tool brings to patients in this week's Avera Medical Minute at https://bit.ly/4m7XLsm.

08/07/2025

Earlier this year Avera McKennan was honored to receive its sixth consecutive MAGNET recognition for excellence in nursing. The nurses on campus recently gathered for a photo to show just how much it means to receive this designation!

08/06/2025

Sioux Falls Mayor Paul TenHaken follows his heart when it comes to city issues and prioritizing his own wellness. 🫀 After completing a Planet Heart screening through Avera, he's sharing how small changes can make a big impact on your heart health. Learn about his experience and why he is urging everyone to sign up at https://bit.ly/40U6Dcv.

08/06/2025

Congratulations to the August Employee of the Month Margarita Terrazas!

"Margarita shows an extraordinary level of empathy and kindness to everyone she serves. Whether it's a staff member or a visitor, she always takes the time to greet everyone with a warm smile and a kind word. She goes above and beyond to ensure that any special dietary needs are met, and she is always patient with those who require assistance."

Thanks for all you do, Margarita!

08/05/2025

Congratulations to Carole Chell, the August Volunteer of the Month at Avera McKennan!

Carole has been a volunteer for just over a year and has contributed 185 hours. She has dedicated her time volunteering at the Avera Cancer Center.

“Carole is such a sweet and compassionate person. Her genuine smile, active listening ear and caring demeanor comes across every day she is here."

Thanks for all you do, Carole!