honoring exceptional care
Through our Guardian Angel and Shining Star programs, grateful patients, families, donors and community members can honor caregivers who have made a difference in their lives. A gift of $10 or more through the Sanford Health Foundation guarantees personalized recognition for your honoree, including a certificate and card featuring your message of thanks and a special pin they can wear proudly. Best of all, 100% of your gift stays local to support other patients and families in your community.
The stories below are heartfelt expressions of gratitude for caregivers who have gone above and beyond. These are real words from real patients and families. Each story serves as a reminder that even the smallest acts of compassion can have a lasting impact. Together, these moments celebrate the power of gratitude, the dedication of our caregivers and the meaningful connections that strengthen the communities we serve.
Roxanne Newman, MD
20 years after a lifesaving emergency surgery, a grateful patient honored Dr. Roxanne Newman for her extraordinary care.
“There are truly no words that can capture the depth of my gratitude… thank you for giving me 20 more years with the people I love, and for giving me a future I might not have had without you.”
Dr. Newman has been honored with more Guardian Angel awards than any other provider at Sanford Health. Read more.
Mary Jo Zacher, Chaplain
A grateful family recognized chaplain Mary Jo Zacher as a Guardian Angel for the compassionate support she provided during their father’s stay at Sanford Fargo Hospice in Fargo, ND, including a meaningful Veteran Pinning Ceremony she organized to honor his military service.
“We couldn’t be with him when he died, so knowing Mary Jo was with him and prayed over him brought our family a great deal of comfort. We’re thankful for everything Mary Jo did for Dad and our family.”
Neil Belsky, RN
After undergoing a cardiac catheterization procedure at the Weston – Marshfield Medical Center in Weston, WI , a grateful patient recognized Neil Belsky, RN, with his very first Shining Star, for his compassionate care.
“The entire team was super helpful and provided excellent care. But I want to specially recognize by care nurse, Neil. He made sure all my questions were answered and needs were met. He was always positive, friendly and humorous to the point that I actually enjoyed the experience! Thank you, Neil and team.”
Critical Care Unit
After losing their son, a grateful family recognized the entire critical care unit at the Sanford USD Medical Center in Sioux Falls, SD, as Guardian Angels for their compassion and care during his 10 days in critical care.
“I wanted to acknowledge that group of nurses who helped us through the worst time in our lives. They cared for our son as if they knew him and loved him… they truly cared for us and shared in our pain. They are not only intelligent, they are a compassionate team, exceeding our needs and expectations.”
Maggie Moses, MD
A grateful patient recognized dermatologist Dr. Maggie Moses at the Marshfield Medical Center in Marshfield, WI, with her third Shining Star award for the kindness and dedication she brings to every patient interaction.
“Dr. Moses always treats me with dignity and respect, ensuring my voice is heard and my needs are prioritized. Her gentle demeanor, reassurance and ability to bring lighthearted conversation during difficult moments made me feel truly cared for as a person, not just a patient.”
OB/GYN Team
The OB/GYN team at the Weston – Marshfield Medical Center in Weston, WI received its very first Shining Star award for the exceptional care and support they provided during a challenging time in a patient’s life.
“The entire team did all the right things at all the right moments. They had honest, hard conversations with me and reassured me over and over that I’d be okay.”
Honor a Caregiver Today
Has a member of our Sanford team made a difference in your life? If you’ve felt the care, compassion and support of a doctor, nurse, staff member, coworker or volunteer, take a moment to honor that special person today. It’s easy to share your appreciation — and your words of thanks, along with your gift of gratitude, will mean the world to your honoree.