Overcoming a terrifying health scare and recognizing the help his family received has prompted a local student to pay it forward, helping families who might find themselves in a similar situation.
Last February, Wessington Springs High School (WSHS) student, Ranick Fjerstad, was rushed to the local ER around 2 a.m., life-flighted out of Wessington Springs, and transported to the Sanford Children’s Hospital, where he stayed for two weeks.
“I was at home and had woken up around 2 a.m. I asked my mom (Becky) if we could go to the hospital because I was having trouble breathing and had a pain in my side. When I arrived, Dr. Terry Weaver told us my oxygen was very low and said he had to call the helicopter,” remembered Fjerstad.
When he arrived at the hospital in Sioux Falls, he was diagnosed with double pneumonia, influenza A and B, septic shock and respiratory failure.
“The doctor told my mom that if I didn’t turn the corner and start improving, I was going to have to be put into an induced coma and on a ventilator,” said Fjerstad.
During his time in the hospital, Fjerstad’s Aunt, Meggin Heim, and Grandma, Sue Schelske, were able to stay in the Ronald McDonald House. There, they were given beds to sleep in and meals to eat.
“I was lucky to only be there for two weeks. I can't imagine what it is like for some parents who are there for months or even years. The Ronald McDonald House really is a relief for them. It’s there to help take some of that stress off of having a sick child,” said Fjerstad.
For his senior project, he said it was a “no-brainer” to want to give back to the organization that was a vital part of his experience.
“For my project, I am doing a Coin War Challenge with all proceeds going toward the Ronald McDonald House. The money will help support families with an ill or injured child who stay at the Ronald McDonald House,” he said. “I am also having an assembly on Friday for the middle school/high school students and staff where the Executive Director of the Ronald McDonald House will be presenting about the purpose and importance of the place,” said Fjerstad.
The Coin War will take place from Monday, January 13 through Friday, January 17 in the WSHS building.
Every morning when students enter the building, they will be able to go to “war.” Each grade will have its own container in the hallway where the money can be dropped. Students have the first ten minutes to drop their money into whatever container they wish.
Coins count toward the grade total and dollars count against the grade total. The goal is to have the highest amount of money at the end of the week and the class that does, receives a pizza party.
“ Remember, you DO want coins in your containers. You DON’T want bills,” added Fjerstad.