The Ian’s Thumbs Up FUNd was established on April 1st 2015 to support families of children with medical needs. Ian Keisacker was a bubbly, energetic young man who struggled with cancer through much of his young life. In 2009, Ian was first diagnosed with brain cancer at the age of 6. He underwent treatment and had several wonderful years until he was diagnosed with a type of cancer that invaded hi
s bone marrow. However, due to struggles with his immune system, Ian developed a brain tumor. At this point, Ian chose to come home and celebrate life. Ian gained his angel wings on December 21, 2014 at the age of 12. Ian was a Little Grape in 2010 and his family was grateful for the excellent care he received at Avera Children’s Hospital and Clinics. He enjoyed giving back to the community and donated toys for the treasure chest on the pediatric unit. He lived life to his fullest and truly showed others to have faith, trust in God and celebrate life. The Fund will assist patients and their families depending on the needs identified by the Child Life Specialists and Pediatric Social workers at Avera. This "FUN"d is designed for what Ian would want, to help the children, but also to help the families. The Social Workers will work together to determine what will best help not only to brighten the day of a child, but also for families. Maybe that is providing a toy or pizza for a child who is in the hospital, a gift card for toys, gift cards for food, or gas cards to help with travel if the family needs to travel for medical procedures. To donate to Ian's Thumb's Up "FUN"d or if you have any questions, please contact
Rob at [email protected]
or
Robin at [email protected]
