If you have had kids, or been around kids, you know that trips to urgent care or the emergency room are part of “the deal.” With my own children, we had the requisite ear infections, occasional stitches from a variety of boo-boos, and a very exciting dislocated thumb that happened on the school playground. As they got older, we moved onto sports injuries. Ranch kids are kids. They have these experiences, too. And sometimes, an acute psychiatric issue may lead to a hospital visit.
When a Ranch child enters a medical setting, Ranch staff are always at their side. They advocate, explain, and comfort. They also work with the medical providers to ensure Ranch children receive help that respects the trauma they carry with them. Like with any medical visit, nurses are usually first to enter the room and set the tone for the care.
A group of very special nursing students decided to learn more about the remarkable kids at the Ranch, so they set up an opportunity to tour our on-site school, Dakota Memorial School, on the Minot campus. They came with open hearts and compassionate spirits. I wanted to share the email we received after their visit.
“I and a few classmates from Dakota College at Bottineau's Minot nursing program had the chance to visit and tour Dakota Memorial School. We are all grateful for the opportunity to learn more about Dakota Boys and Girls Ranch. I personally am so grateful for the therapists, teachers, and everyone who pour their hearts into the students they encounter. I have been a volunteer with Minot's Youth for Christ for four years, however, in this season of business and nursing school, I have stepped away from the regular YFC schedule and volunteer at large events. A handful of the students I have worked with have been students at Dakota Memorial School. I love these students with all my heart, and I'm so happy to see the care they are given. There was one student who I had worked with for at least two years, and sometimes I felt as though there was no hope for her. Of course, I knew that this wasn't true, but she needed more than what myself and YFC could provide. I got one last phone call from her, and then she entered residential treatment. Almost a year later, she called another staff member and left a message, saying she had decided to move out east with family, away from her usual bad influences, and that during her time at Dakota Boys and Girls Ranch, she had accepted Jesus Christ as her Savior. I can't even begin to say how overjoyed I was to hear that message. Thank you, from the bottom of my heart, to everyone who made it possible to save this lost girl. My classmates and I will continue to value and support Dakota Boys & Girls Ranch.”
-Natalie Stevens, Dakota College Nursing Program
After their visit, the group chose to raise money to purchase an occupational therapy “rocker” (it’s a huge crescent moon-shaped chair that helps with calming) for the school. Such a blessing. Hurray for Nurses!
In His love,
Joy Ryan, President/CEO
Dakota Boys and Girls Ranch