Oct. 10, 2024

Sanford Health will add a new pediatric emergency department specially designed and equipped for children, thanks to a lead gift from David H. and Christine Billion.

The new space will be adjacent to the existing emergency department at Sanford USD Medical Center. Construction is expected to start in January.

It will be the only accredited pediatric trauma center in South Dakota, according to Sanford Health, staffed by pediatric emergency medicine specialists, pediatricians and emergency medicine specialists who have completed an additional three-year fellowship.

The $3 million donation follows a contribution from the Billions last year to establish a fully accessible playground outside Sanford Children’s Hospital, “which allows our kiddos to experience the healing power of play. Their continued generosity will help us broaden and deepen our leadership in pediatric emergency and trauma care with state-of-the art, dedicated facilities,” said Erin Sanderson, vice president for the Sanford Health Foundation in Sioux Falls.

“This special couple continues to drive meaningful change through their generosity, and we couldn’t be more grateful.”

For the Billions, the project meets a need in the Sioux Falls area, Christine Billion said.

“There’s nothing like it,” she said. “I think back when my kids were little, and it would have been nice to know there was a pediatric emergency room available. It’s just a lot easier and more comforting to children.”

In addition to emergency pediatric care, the David H. and Christine Billion Pediatric Emergency Department will offer access to pediatric support services such as Child Life – a program designed to facilitate positive experiences for pediatric patients through education and therapeutic play.

“I think it certainly brings a new level of care to kids that are in critical situations,” David H. Billion said. “It’s a well-deserved service for the young people of the community, and we’re just happy to be a part of it. We think the world of Sanford as an organization as far as a medical facility and what they offer the community.”

The announcement was made at the 2024 Children’s Gala last weekend, where $1.2 million was raised for the mission of Sanford Children’s.

Proceeds from the gala will support everything from enhancements to care and treatment, to leading-edge pediatric equipment, to programs like Child Life and summer camps, financial assistance to help families, lifesaving equipment like Giraffe OmniBeds and pediatric CT scanners, and meaningful touches like toys, games, books and cozy furniture.

The event also celebrated the 15th anniversary of Sanford Children’s Hospital, made possible thanks to a $16 million challenge gift from philanthropist Denny Sanford in 2004. Sanford’s gift not only launched the project but also inspired donors from across the region to step forward in support of the effort.

The Castle of Care, modeled after a fairy-tale castle, opened in 2009. Its team of hospital caregivers, along with child life specialists, a school tutor, spiritual care provider and others have cared for children from 35 states across the country.