SIOUX FALLS, S.D. — On Monday, January 5, South Dakota’s first and only pediatric emergency department opened its doors on the campus of the Sanford USD Medical Center in Sioux Falls. The multi-million dollar endeavor was made possible thanks entirely to local donors who supported the effort, including a significant lead gift from local philanthropists David H. and Christine Billion, for whom the space is named.
Through their generosity, the Billions — and hundreds of other local donors who stepped forward to support the project — are helping to address a growing need in the Sioux Falls region, said Dr. Mason Ruthford, a pediatric emergency specialist for Sanford Health.
“Over the last five years, the number of local kids turning to us for emergency care has increased by nearly 20%,” said Dr. Ruthford. “Of those, hundreds were pediatric trauma cases. These are kids who need immediate attention. These are kids for whom, literally, every second counts.”
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The David H. and Christine Billion Pediatric Emergency Department will be a game-changer for kids and families throughout our region. We are so grateful to everyone who supported this project. Because of their generosity, we can ensure local kids have access to the right care at the right time, when it matters most.
Pediatric Emergency Specialist
Erin Sanderson serves as vice president for the Sanford Health Foundation in Sioux Falls. She called the project a testament to what’s possible when a community comes together in support of its children.
“Time and again, when a need arises, our community answers the call. The generosity behind this project reflects a spirit of giving unlike any other,” Sanderson said. “We are thankful to every donor whose generosity helped us open these doors today, and we are especially thankful to David H. and Christine Billion for their incredible and continued support. Their lead gift is what helped launch this project, bringing a decades-long dream to life for the benefit of local kids and families across our area.”
For David H. and Christine Billion, supporting the project was a chance to give the gift of hope.
“We know this space will be a beacon of hope for every child and family it serves,” the couple said. “Here they will receive the highest level of treatment, understanding and loving care.”
About the Project
The David H. and Christine Billion Pediatric Emergency Department is home to the state’s only fellowship-trained pediatric emergency specialists, experts who are on hand 24/7 to deliver lifesaving pediatric care when every second matters.
They are also experienced in bringing together cross-specialty experts, collaborating with child life and other support services and crafting care plans designed around each child’s unique needs.
A Look Inside
The David H. and Christine Billion Pediatric Emergency Department is located near the Emergency Department on the campus of the Sanford USD Medical Center.
Supporters of the project received a sneak peek inside the space in early December and learned more about its key features:
- A permanent home for the state’s only accredited pediatric trauma center
- Lifesaving technology and the latest diagnostic equipment, including a pediatric CT scanner
- Faster access to important pediatric support services such as child life, spiritual care and more
- Space and technology to help caregivers collaborate more effectively across specialty areas
- Kid-friendly features, including a warm and welcoming lobby and common spaces filled with vibrant colors and playful murals
Give for Children. Give for Good.
The opening of the David H. and Christine Billion Pediatric Emergency Department is a powerful example of what happens when a community comes together. Every gift to the new pediatric emergency department will support local kids, ensuring they receive expert care, advanced technology and the comfort of a space designed just for them — when every second counts.
Together, we can sustain hope for children and families across our region.