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.
Devon Hamlyn, RN
Devon, a registered nurse at The Birth Place in Sioux Falls, SD, was nominated for her first Guardian Angel by a grateful patient following the birth of their first child.
“Devon was truly extraordinary. She guided me through the hardest part of my labor with so much compassion and strength. I can’t imagine going through that experience without her. She is everything a nurse should be.”
Sommer Nurkic, MD
A grateful patient recognized Dr. Sommer Nurkic, radiation oncologist at the Sanford Roger Maris Cancer Center in Fargo, ND, as a Guardian Angel for the compassionate support she and her team provided during the patient’s cancer journey.
“Dr. Nurkic and team made this breast cancer treatment journey a whole lot better for me than I could have ever imagined. I felt supported, listened to and genuinely cared for. Their compassion and dedication meant more to me than I can fully express.”
Brittany Nygaard, NP
After their son received care at Sanford Children’s Urgent Care Clinic in Fargo, ND, a grateful parent nominated Brittany Nygaard, pediatric nurse practitioner, as a Guardian Angel.
“Brittany’s thorough assessment and attention to detail made all the difference in my son’s care. Because she took the time to carefully evaluate his symptoms, he received the treatment he needed quickly. I truly believe that without her diligence, he could have become much sicker and the outcome very different.
Kafi Thomas, MD
A grateful patient nominated Dr. Kafi Thomas, oncologist at the Sanford Cancer Center in Bismarck, ND as a Guardian Angel for her compassion and commitment.
“Dr. Thomas’s compassion, attentiveness and commitment to truly listening to her patients has had a lasting impact on me. I am deeply grateful for her expertise and kindness, and I cannot thank her enough for the difference she has made in my life.
Ricky Yu, MD
Dr. Ricky Yu, cardiologist at Sanford Heart Bismarck, ND, was recognized as a Guardian Angel by a grateful patient for his dedication to his patients.
“Dr. Yu gave me something I had been missing for a long time — hope. He reminded me that there are physicians who genuinely care, who listen without judgement and who are willing to go the extra mile for their patients.”
Andrea Grubb, RN
A grateful patient recognized Andrea Grubb, registered nurse at the Sanford Seventh & Rosser Clinic in Bismarck, ND, as a Guardian Angel for her professionalism and care of their son during a hard time.
“Andrea took the time to explain each step, treated ours on with kindness and respect and ensured we felt supported through the entire process. Her professionalism and genuine concern made a stressful day far more manageable, and our family is deeply grateful for the exceptional care she provided.”
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.