SPACE FOR SIOUX FALLS
The Westside Recreation Center is a 74,000 square foot facility dedicated to indoor recreation in Sioux Falls. This recreation center brings people together and supports overall community well-being. Our amenities and features include:
• Indoor aquatic facility with 15M pool, slide, hot tub
• Sauna and steam room
• Sport courts for basketball, volleyball, pickleball and racquetball
• Indoor walking/running track
• Fitness areas and equipment
• Programs and classes for all ages
• Multipurpose rooms (Reservable space for meetings and birthday parties)
• Full-Amenity Locker Rooms
Hours:
·Sunday: 10 A.M.–5 P.M.
·Monday–Thursday: 5 A.M.–9 P.M.
·Friday: 5 A.M.–8 P.M.
·Saturday: 7 A.M.–5 P.M.
Volunteers
What is trauma? Trauma is complex and deeply personal. The difficult experiences youth face can leave lasting impacts, but how they process and respond to those events can vary widely.
Trauma is not defined by a single event or reaction—what may be overwhelming for one individual might look entirely different for another.
Traumatic events can include: parent separation or divorce, death of someone close, abuse or neglect of any kind, witness of violence, family substance abuse or mental illness, medical challenges, grief, bullying, disasters and more.
These experiences can affect mental, emotional, and physical well-being in different and unique ways.
In a child, trauma can look like:
Behavior changes including temper tantrums, meltdowns, crying, and difficulty separating from trusted adults. Can also include regression including bed wetting, loss of self-help skills, learning difficulties, and changes in personality or temperment.
Our team uses evidence-based methods to provide personalized care, helping each youth explore coping mechanisms, build resilience, and move toward healing. We also incorporate strategies that promote healthy communication, emotional regulation, and positive selfidentity.
STRENGTH IN
Community
As a mom, I have countless dreams for my children as they grow. I want them to be kind, confident, and capable. Of course, I care about their grades and how they do in the activities they pursue, but if I had to choose one wish above all others for my kids, it would be this: that they are healthy and happy. Not just physically but mentally and emotionally.
In today’s fast-paced world, prioritizing mental health is crucial for both parents and children. Kids learn by watching us, so I want them to see me taking care of my mental and physical wellbeing. It’s important for them to understand that seeking support during tough times is a sign of strength, not weakness.
In this issue, we’re honored to share the stories of several local families who have faced incredible adversity with courage and grace. You’ll read about Thyra’s journey with a medical hardship on page 26 and Zander’s courage in fighting cancer on page 10. These families remind us that there is always hope and love.
We have also compiled a list of resources that can help guide and support your family. You can find even more resources online at thehoodmagazine.com. I believe deeply that no one should have to face their struggles alone, and that’s why we’ve created this community at ‘hood. A village where we support one another, share our stories, and find strength in community.
As we enter the New Year, my wish for you is simple: I hope this year brings you peace, joy, and connection. Thank you for being a part of this village. It’s truly an honor to serve you, and I look forward to continuing this journey with you all.
With love and gratitude,
Steff
Steffanie Holtrop Publisher
President & Publisher
Steffanie Holtrop
605-366-1479
steff@thehoodmagazine.com
Editor Sarah Parker
& Design Director Ally Chase Digital
Reproduction or use of the contents of this magazine is prohibited.
‘Hood Magazine is published 7 times a year by Hoodlum Productions, LLC and strives to publish only accurate information; however, Hoodlum Productions, LLC cannot be held responsible for consequences resulting from errors or omissions. All material in this magazine is the property of Hoodlum Productions, LLC and cannot be reproduced without permission of the publisher.
©2025 Hoodlum Productions, LLC All Rights Reserved.
‘hood
FEATURED EVENTS
The Sioux Falls Area is full of events for the whole family! Check out some of our favorite upcoming events below.
january
2
Westside Recreation Center Opens
Westside Recreation Center
The City of Sioux Falls opens the indoor recreation center.
1-31
12th Annual
Downtown Sioux Falls Burger Battle
Downtown Sioux Falls
Get ready to sink your teeth into the ultimate showdown! The Battle is heating up starting January 1, 2025, and runs through January 31.
18
Winter Kids Day, Memorial Ice Rink
Get ready for a park full of games with a frosty twist! Event hosted by Sioux Falls Parks and Rec.
Toughest Monster Truck Tour 17-18
Denny Sanford PREMIER Center
Get ready to see the TOUGHEST monster trucks in the nation, including the brand-new Cyber Attack! Also featuring the high-flying Freestyle Motocross Team.
25
Sioux Falls Skyforce vs. Memphis Hustle
Sanford Pentagon Join Force Nation and enjoy a home basketball game.
31
Go Red for Women
Sioux Falls Convention Center Go Red for Women’s Heart Health.
february
8
Weiner Dog Night with the Sioux Falls Stampede
Denny Sanford PREMIER Center
The 18th edition of the Sioux Nation Pet Clinic Wiener Dog Races.
8
Open House Ice Fishing
The Outdoor Campus
Learn how to Ice Fish at this free event. No registration required.
14
Snow Ball
The Children’s Museum of South Dakota
Enjoy an evening of dancing in your finest outfits.
14
SDSO: Concert for Kids and Families
Washington Pavilion
A 60-minute concert that is a great introduction to the orchestra.
26
The Magic School Bus: Lost in the Solar System
The Washington Pavilion
Experience the musical adaptation of the beloved book series.
12
Spring Class Registration Opens
The Outdoor Campus Spring is almost here, and we’re excited to invite you to all the fun, FREE programming opportunities. From fishing to conservation education, there is a class right for your family!
february
27
Rascal Flatts: Life is a Highway Tour
Denny Sanford PREMIER Center
Enjoy a country music night out with Rascal Flatts.
JAN FEB
23-6
Various Schools
Bishop O’Gorman Catholic Schools Open Houses
Explore eight open houses across our elementary schools, junior high, and high school! Meet teachers, discover programs, and see why Bishop O’Gorman Catholic Schools is the perfect choice for you!
UPCOMING EVENT?
Reach out to us to have YOUR event featured in our next issue or online calendar!
1
Day of Play
The Urban Adventure Center
The Urban Adventure Center invites you to transform the first Saturday of every month into an exciting Day of Play! Come enjoy our bouldering wall, STEM activities, and more!
For a complete list of area events, check out our online Calendar! thehoodmagazine.com/calendar
by LifeScape
Life -Changing Impact of
Visual Motor Therapy
“How do you put five-year-olds in front of a computer and expect them to learn?” It’s the height of the COVID pandemic, children are forced to find a new way to learn and parents are left scrambling to make sure their kids don’t fall behind.
In Tabernacle, New Jersey, parents Jen and JT Harbourt found themselves in that position with their five-year-old son, Sonny. “My thought was we should keep him at daycare because they were doing in-person classes and that he would be ahead of the curve because he wasn’t doing online learning,” explains Jen. However, come October 2021, they were told Sonny might need a little bit of help with his reading.
Road to a Diagnosis
Occupational therapy uses play to help kids reach goals and developmental milestones that improve their life.
Their journey to a diagnosis led to frustration and roadblocks, not only because Sonny was having a challenging time with reading, but
even skills like drawing were damaging to his mental state at such an early age. “He couldn’t differentiate the lines between text, so the letters were mixing together. With words, he would read “Cat” as “Cap,” and we’d wonder where the “P” came from,” explains Jen. “He’s also left-handed, which was affecting his drawing, and I’m right-handed, so my husband, who is also left-handed had to tell me why.” “When I was younger, I had a lot of issues because people don’t realize that being left-hand dominant means you have to adapt and do things differently,” says J.T. “Sonny loves animals and liked to draw tree frogs. He would draw them on our whiteboard, but he couldn’t make part
of the tree frog red because he kept erasing it by accident and he would just become so upset. So, I turned the board around and that was it, problem solved,” explains J.T.
After months of testing and reading classes, the Harbourts sought out specialists for Sonny’s vision and hearing. Finding no issues, Jen contacted her
mom, a Ph.D. and Board-Certified Behavior Analyst, for guidance. While visiting her in South Dakota, her mom arranged for Sonny to see an occupational therapist (OT) trained in visual motor therapy. After a thorough assessment, the OT identified that Sonny had difficulty with saccadic eye movements – a revelation that finally explained what was going on.
Starting Treatment
can be much more difficult,” says Edwards, “as children get older, school gets harder, and expectations grow. The gap between where they are and where they should be gets larger.” Third grade was a key factor for Jen and JT as they were told if Sonny didn’t have a good basis by then, everything else would be a struggle, no matter the subject.
Sonny’s visit to LifeScape was truly eye-opening for his parents as the evaluation uncovered some fine motor skill weaknesses, too. Knowing they live across the country, a plan was put in place. “We learned he would need to do crossword puzzles, word searches, and mazes. Our Occupational Therapist at LifeScape gave us a thorough list of invaluable recommendations, explains Jen. “The skills to complete puzzles, and handwriting tasks are based on visual motor integration,” explains Edwards, “Visual motor integration includes ocular motor function, visual perception, and eye hand coordination.”
Seeing Improvement
Saccadic eye movement disorders can affect the ability to make accurate eye movements, “Difficulty with eye movements can cause letter reversals, reading issues, headaches, and more,” explains Elise Edwards, an Occupational Therapist trained in visual motor therapy. “Occupational therapy uses play to help kids reach goals and developmental milestones that improve their life.”
Time is of the essence when it comes to visual motor therapy, specifically regarding skills such as reading and writing. “At age seven, if a child is already experiencing deficits with vision, activities
Now, months later, Sonny is thriving, “I’ve noticed that when he wants to watch TV, I’ll put the closed captioning on, and I can see him reading the cc. I see a significant increase in his confidence. Even though they say he’s still behind, he’s leaps and bounds where he was before,” says J.T. “He even volunteered to get up in front of his class to read a story they were writing about, which is huge. That’s the icing on the cake,” says Jen.
A sign of relief in the form of a diagnosis over a thousand miles away from home. This resource is available right here in Sioux Falls, “Visual motor therapy can help children meet their maximum potential and be successful,” says Edward.
McDonald’s and Ronald McDonald House Charities of South Dakota
Partners in Community Care
McDonald’s and Ronald McDonald House Charities of South Dakota (RMHCSoDak) work together to support families during challenging medical crises. By providing lodging, meals, and a sense of community, they ensure families can focus on their children’s health and well-being.
Families like the Ulvestads highlight the profound impact of this partnership. Six-year-old Zander Ulvestad is courageously battling a stage 4 Wilms tumor and recently underwent a rigorous 56-week chemotherapy regimen. The Ronald McDonald House became a lifeline for the Ulvestad family, keeping them together during this difficult time.
“For Zander, being at Ronald McDonald House felt normal and comfortable—it gave him a sense of belonging,” said his mother, Josi. “The private space allowed us to eat, sleep, and recharge as a family, while still connecting with other families facing similar challenges. The Ronald McDonald House provided stability and support when we needed it most.”
McDonald’s employees actively volunteer at RMHC facilities, preparing meals, organizing activities, and offering comfort to families. These efforts foster a sense of purpose among team members while providing critical support to families in need.
McDonald’s teams and Ronald McDonald House volunteers collaborate to ensure families like the Ulvestads receive care. Mike Broderick, Community Outreach Officer, emphasized the importance of these efforts: “From preparing meals to fundraising, McDonald’s employees and community members help families feel supported and less alone during their hardest moments.”
Jordan Hartshorn, Owner/Operator of Hart2Hart, the local McDonald’s franchise group, shared the franchise’s commitment: “Our partnership with Ronald McDonald House allows us to make a meaningful difference. Seeing the strength of families like Zander’s inspires us daily to do more.”
The McDonald’s and RMHC SoDak partnership showcases the power of compassion and collaboration. To learn more about RMHC SoDak or to support their mission, visit www.rmhcsodak.org. Inspired to join McDonald’s and make a difference? Apply at www.mcdonalds.com/careers. Together, we can build a network of care that uplifts families and strengthens communities. l
1. Host a family game night.
7 Things to Do This
2. Throw a summer party at home on a cold day.
3. Write letters to relatives. Make a DIY hot chocolate bar at home for a movie night.
5. Check out a program and some books at the Library.
6. Go sledding (find our sledding guide online).
7. Have a family pajama day and make relaxation the goal.
10 Questions to Ask Your Kids at the Dinner Table
Engaging in conversations with your kids at the dinner table is a great way to strengthen your family’s connection and create lasting memories. While meal times can be busy, make it a goal to have a few established family meals every week. These 10 questions range from silly to serious. Use them to spark interesting discussions and learn more about your kid’s thoughts, experiences, and feelings.
1. What’s something that made you laugh today?
2. What’s a family tradition you really love, and why?
3. If you could create a new dessert, what would it be like?
4. What’s something new you learned about yourself recently?
5. What’s your favorite way to relax and unwind after a busy day?
6. If you could make the world a better place, how would you do it?
7. If you could explore a magical forest, what creatures would you hope to meet?
8. If you could learn any new skill or hobby, what would it be?
9. What’s a goal or dream you’re currently working toward?
10. What’s your favorite movie or TV show right now, and why? 1 2 3 4 5 10 6 7 8 9
Healthy Families,
CHILDREN
Where Every Smile Matters
ABC Pediatric Dentistry
At ABC Pediatric Dentistry, we love kids, and we love making kids smile. Kids are our passion, and dentistry is our craft. We believe that every child deserves compassionate dental care in a welcoming and loving environment. We are devoted to helping keep your little one’s smile healthy while offering quality, inclusive, and accessible pediatric dental care. Caution: Children will likely have fun and become excited about future dental appointments.
Families First
At ABC Pediatric Dentistry, parents are always welcome to accompany their child to appointments. This commitment reflects our belief in transparency and collaboration with families. It’s our goal to empower children to feel safe and confident during each visit, and to even have some fun! Our office is kidfriendly, state-of-the-art, and parent-approved.
As a local doctor-owned and operated practice, we prioritize autonomy in decision-making, focusing on what’s best for each child. We prescribe treatment for our little patients in the way that we would prescribe treatment for our own children- nothing more and nothing less. Our goal is to build trust through honest recommendations and tailored treatment plans, meeting each child and family where they are at. We empower caregivers to have the information they need to make informed decisions for their kids’ dental care.
The heart of ABC Pediatric Dentistry is its people and mission to love others. We are people loving people. We strive to cultivate and maintain a strong, vibrant culture of kindness and compassion that pours over into each patient experience.
Services Tailored for Every Child
ABC Pediatric Dentistry provides preventative care and treatment starting at age 1, or as soon as the first tooth erupts, including specialized care for children with complex medical histories, healthy children, children with autism, children with anxiety, children without anxiety, and all children in between.
We also offer:
• Dental sedation and surgery
• Tongue-tie evaluations and releases (for feeding, speech, and breathing challenges)
• Minimally Invasive Dentistry
• Alternative materials and techniques
Come Meet Us
Through advanced techniques and compassionate care, we ensure that every child receives the support they
Meet the ABC Team
Our amazing, diverse team of Pediatric Dental Specialists have completed pediatric dental residency beyond their dental school training and have years of experience working exclusively with kids of all abilities and healthcare needs. Our Doctors partner with families to create tailored plans that address each child’s specific dental needs.
• Dr. Conner Christensen is a kid at heart and loves serving the pediatric population. He has completed additional specialty training in treating infants and children with lip and tongue
by Sarah Parker
heart
AN OPEN AND HOME
A Billet Mom’s Journey with the Sioux Falls Stampede
In the world of junior hockey, players often leave their families to pursue their dreams, and that’s where billet families step in. For Bethany and her husband Christopher, being a billet family has become a source of deep joy and fulfillment.
Welcoming players from the Sioux Falls Stampede into their home, they have discovered that hosting these young athletes is more than offering a place to stay—it’s about building lifelong connections and helping shape futures.
What It Means to Be a Billet Mom
As a billet mom, Bethany provides a home for young hockey players. The players are part of the United States Hockey League (USHL), a highly competitive league for athletes aged 16 to 21. Many of these young men are preparing for college hockey or even professional careers. For Bethany, being a billet mom on their journey towards these goals is incredibly rewarding.
It’s not just about meals and a roof over their heads; it’s about making them feel like part of a family. She provides a cozy home to relax in, cheers them on at games, celebrates their success, and supports them on hard days. A billet family is truly a home away from home.
A Home Away From Home
Being a billet family has brought us so much joy and filled a place in our lives that we were really missing, letting us support and connect with these young players like they’re part of our own family.
Bethany and Christopher’s path to becoming a billet family started with a simple announcement during a Stampede game. After years of
struggling with infertility, they were intrigued about the opportunity to support youth in a creative way. The next year, they hosted their first player and were hooked. “Being a billet family has brought us so much joy and filled a place in our lives that we were really missing, letting us support and connect with these young players like they’re part of our own family,” Bethany explains.
Since then, the couple has hosted 12 players in just three seasons. Whether they stayed for a few days
or even nine months, each player has left a mark on their lives. Junior hockey is a fast-paced world, and they never know how long they will have with each player, so they make the most of it.
Life Beyond the Ice
Life as a billet family is never dull! Their home is often buzzing with activity, from fire pit nights and dart tournaments to teaching players how to cook or do laundry. They have family nights at Dave and Buster’s and make snow forts in the backyard.
They make memories with the boys in their home, like nailing a recipe from a player’s home country and attempting to learn Russian and Finnish (with very questionable success). “But honestly, the moments I treasure most,” Bethany shares, “are those late-night talks—just chatting about life, laughing, and learning from one another.”
The Stampede Family
Being a billet mom with the Stampede has been an incredible experience for Bethany. They get season passes to all home games and are honored throughout the season. The community the Stampede has created has been a blessing and a joy for her. “I have an amazing billet community to rely on,” Bethany shares. “The other billet families, many of whom have been doing this for much longer, have been a great source of advice and support.” But the best part of being a billet mom is still about the players.
“It can be easy to look at Stampede players and think they’re full-grown adults, but the truth is, they’re just kids who are still growing in their hockey journey. They’re kind, funny, incredibly talented, and highly motivated. Getting to know them, even the ones who don’t stay with us is always such a joy.” She goes on to praise the Stampede, “The coaching staff and the organization do an outstanding job of making Sioux Falls a top program in the USHL, and I’m proud to be a small part of it. Every player we’ve met has been a blessing, and I’m excited for the amazing players we’ll meet in the future.”
If you are interested in becoming a billet family and welcoming a player into your family, reach out to the Sioux Falls Stampede. If you are looking for another great opportunity, the Sioux Falls Power also has a need for billet families for hockey players here in Sioux Falls. l
Play
ADVENTURE URBAN CENTER
Open Play is coming to the Urban Adventure Center! The new Day of Play events will be on the first Saturdays of the month (starting February 1st), from 10am-1pm. Bring your kids, plan a playdate, and get ready for adventurous fun!
40 FOOT
Bouldering Wall Youth Bouldering Enhances: Strength, Confidence, and ProblemSolving Skills
GAME ROOM
Foosball, Ping-Pong, Bocce Ball, Bean Bag Toss, Video Arcade
S.T.E.M ACTIVITIES
Provided During Open Play
Bring this ad to our first Saturday of open play and pay just $10 for admission!
SNACKS
Available for Purchase
BIRTHDAY
PARTIES
Check Out our Birthday Party Packages
RENTALS
INDOOR
4-Square Court
Amenities for Rental can include: Full Kitchen, Multiple Bathrooms, Outdoor Fire Pit, and More!
RESOURCES Counseling & Therapy
Life can be full of challenges, and there are times when the best way to navigate them is by reaching out for support. Whether you’re looking for individual therapy, family counseling, or help for your child, our community offers a wealth of resources to guide you. In this Therapy and Counseling Resource Guide, you’ll find trusted professionals who are here to help your whole family thrive.
Sioux Falls Psychological Services offermehope.com
No matter where life takes you, Sioux Falls Psychological Services will meet you where you are, offering hope. Our team is trained to meet your emotional needs. We offer therapy and assessment for individuals of all ages, including children, adolescents, and teens. Therapist video introductions are available on our website.
Avera Behavioral Health avera.org/BehavioralHealth
We offer a safe environment and professional expertise to help patients of all ages experience personal victories. We provide care for a variety of behavioral concerns, including: Addiction, Anxiety, ADHD, Bipolar disorder, Dementia, Depression, Interpersonal problems, Oppositional defiant disorder, Personality disorders, Psychosis, Schizophrenia.
Stronghold Counseling Services strongholdcounseling.com
Feel like you are sinking in the storms and floods of life? Since 1993, Stronghold Counseling Services has been providing quality, clinical, counseling services that are informed by a biblical, grace-filled perspective. We minister to families, couples, and individuals, and our counselors and therapists have years of combined clinical experience.
Center for Family Medicine centerforfamilymed.org
At Center For Family Medicine, both recently trained resident physicians and faculty physicians with decades of experience treat you. Together, they’ll make sure you and your family always receive world-class care. We provide: Checkups, counseling, hospital referrals, nutrition, preventative care & more.
Sprout Play Therapy and Counseling Services sproutplaytherapyand counseling.com
Sprout provides mental health services, with an emphasis on play therapy, to children ages 3-12. We also work with parents and caregivers to encourage optimal outcomes outside of the therapy space. At Sprout, we are here to help you and your child grow and thrive.
Visions Eye Care + Therapy Center sdvisionstherapy.com
Many vision problems can be corrected with glasses/contacts. Others require a more comprehensive approach. Vision therapy is an individualized program that corrects visual motor and processing deficiencies. It strengthens the connection between the eyes and brain to improve eye alignment, eye tracking, eye focusing, eye teaming, and visual processing.
LifeScape lifescapesd.org
At LifeScape, every patient receives bestin-class care. Our highly-skilled therapists provide highly specialized treatments in behavior management, diagnosis and treatment of autism, assistive technology, seating and positioning, feeding and swallowing, augmentative communication, sensory integration, pediatric bowel and bladder incontinence, visual motor/ perception, and torticollis treatment.
VO A DAKOTAS
Volunteers of America, Dakotas voa-dakotas.org
Trauma-Focused Treatment is a service designed for children and adolescents ages 4-17 and their families who have been impacted by traumatic events. Treatment can be delivered at our location or via telehealth.
Yellow Brick Road Counseling and Therapy
holly-merrick-liston.clientsecure.me
We are a mental health clinic serving people of all ages with a focus on teens and young adults. Providing a safe and positive environment to address trauma and improve lives. Life Can Be Better!
Anderson Smith Therapy Institute andersonsmiththerapy.com
Since 2013, Anderson-Smith Therapy Institute has delivered expert speech and occupational therapy in Sioux Falls and Brandon, SD. As a therapist-owned practice, we provide cutting-edge, individualized care. Our multidisciplinary team empowers families to meet their goals, supporting all ages with specialized speech, feeding, motor skills, sensory, and literacy services.
by Sarah Kurtenbach
I Potty Trained
My Kids in 3 Days
Here’s What Worked For Us
When you become a parent, milestones become a big deal. First steps? First night in a big-kid bed? Potty training? You guessed it—all milestones! I potty trained my son when he turned two and my daughter at 21 months. Both kids took about three days to potty train. While I’m no expert, imagine us chatting over coffee as I share some tips that made this daunting milestone smoother for us.
Tip 1
tip 1
Make Sure Your Child Is Ready
Potty training before your child is ready can lead to frustration for both of you. Readiness varies; some kids are ready at 18 months, while others might wait until preschool. Before I started, I took a pottytraining readiness quiz from Pull-Ups and checked Pampers’ readiness checklist.
Also, prepare your child in advance. Let them pick out fun underwear and build excitement by counting down to their “bye-bye diapers” day.
tip 2
Clear Your Calendar and Use a Timer
For potty training to work, you’ll need uninterrupted time. This is tricky if you have older kids with activities, so try to schedule a long weekend or find support from your partner to manage other responsibilities.
During the three days, I kept my kids in underwear (no pants) and used a timer:
• Day 1: Timer set every 15 minutes.
• Day 2: Every 25 minutes.
• Day 3: Every 45 minutes.
When the timer went off, I encouraged them to sit on the potty, even if they didn’t feel the need to go. If nothing happened, I reset the timer for 10 minutes. I also made sure they stayed hydrated— more liquids meant more practice opportunities!
tip 3
Motivate and Reward
Rewards make potty training fun! I created a prize jar filled with small treats like stickers or Annie’s Cheddar Bunnies. Every time they successfully used the potty, they got to pick a prize. If they didn’t, I stayed positive: “We’ll try again in 10 minutes— maybe you’ll get a prize then!”
The prize jar became the coolest thing in the house, and the excitement kept them motivated.
Good Luck!
Potty training isn’t easy, but picture the day you ditch the diaper bag and start saving on diapers. This transition is worth the effort, and you’ll be so proud of both your child and yourself for reaching this milestone! l
“
I’ve become a passionate advocate for Maggie and other children with PANDAS. As parents, it’s our job to speak up for our children. Always follow your gut, despite what others may tell you.
by Thyra Crissey
Finding Hope and Advocacy:
Our Family Journey with PANDAS
Life took an unexpected turn for our family when our joyful and vibrant daughter, Magdalyn (Maggie), began exhibiting puzzling and concerning behaviors. A once happy child, Maggie’s world began to change dramatically around the age of three, and we were left confused and worried about what could be wrong.
We used to say that “everyone needs a little Maggie in their life.” But something shifted, and she was not the same. She started displaying unpredictable behaviors, had a regression in language, and became fixated on routines and objects. She also became clumsy, started to tip-toe walk, and even had amnesia-like moments where she couldn’t remember events or objects that were part of her everyday life.
As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I recognized these patterns as more than just typical childhood challenges. However, pinpointing the underlying cause was no small task. For about a year and a half, I knew something wasn’t right but didn’t know what. After navigating through evaluations and misdiagnoses, Maggie was eventually diagnosed with PANDAS (Pediatric Autoimmune Neuropsychiatric Disorder Associated with Streptococcus), a rare and often misunderstood condition that is estimated to affect 1 in 200 children.
Understanding PANDAS: A Complex Puzzle
PANDAS is triggered by strep infections, leading to an autoimmune response where the body mistakenly attacks the basal ganglia in the brain, causing inflammation. Looking back in her history, she had multiple strep infections year after year, some only a few months apart and several times needing a 2nd or 3rd antibiotic to get rid of it. For Maggie, this manifested in erratic behavior, regression in skills, and extreme emotional and physical challenges. She became very defiant and even aggressive.
Getting an accurate diagnosis required persistence. I consulted multiple pediatricians and pursued extensive testing. They thought she had ADHD and possibly autism. Ultimately, it was a combination of clinical observation and abnormal
bloodwork that confirmed the diagnosis. It is a tough diagnosis as many providers either aren’t familiar with it or dismiss it entirely.
Once diagnosed, we pursued treatments, including IVIG (Intravenous Immunoglobulin) therapy and, eventually, tonsillectomy and adenoidectomy. Each step has brought progress. Maggie’s journey is far from linear, but she is worth fighting for.
Today, Maggie is making strides. We are now three months out from her last IVIG infusion, and we’ve seen consistent improvement. From struggling with noise sensitivity and needing assistance at school, Maggie is now participating in her Christmas program without headphones and enjoying moments of clarity and connection.
Lessons in Advocacy
During the journey towards a diagnosis, I was struggling to find answers and resources for our little Maggie, and I work in the medical field. I now know better how I can be an advocate for other parents struggling with behavioral health.
Community
Opening up about Maggie’s condition wasn’t easy for my husband and I. Initially, we kept our struggles private, fearing judgment. But when we shared our journey on social media, the outpouring of support was overwhelming. The responses we received were astronomical. Friends, family, and even strangers reached out to offer love, share similar stories, and provide encouragement.
“
For Maggie, every step forward is a celebration. We are so thankful that she is ours, and I am so excited to see her grow.
This community support has been a source of strength for our family, reminding us that we are not alone. It’s also inspired me to work toward broader change, advocating for increased awareness and insurance coverage for PANDAS treatments here in South Dakota. These kids deserve a chance to have their childhood like everyone else.
Resources and Hope
I’ve become a passionate advocate for Maggie and other children with PANDAS. As parents, it’s our job to speak up for our children. Always follow your gut, despite what others may tell you. You know what is normal and what is not. Listening to Maggie and believing her was an important part of our persistence in finding an answer. Maggie told me, “Mommy, I don’t want to be the naughty girl.” This simple statement fueled my resolve to find answers.
Living this life for three years has shaped my perspective on treating behavioral issues. I get to use my knowledge to help other families identify and navigate PANDAS. I get to be an advocate for other parents and even just an ear on the other line when they need to cry.
For families navigating similar challenges, I recommend resources such as the Pandas Network, Aspire, and the SD PANDAS/PANS Facebook group. Connecting with specialists who understand the condition is crucial. There is a lot to learn, but having the right support makes a difference.
For Maggie, every step forward is a celebration. We are so thankful that she is ours, and I am so excited to see her grow. Others have told us it must be nice to have your little girl back, and honestly, with it happening to her at such a young age, I have to say we are just finally getting to see a taste of who Maggie really is. She is sweet, funny, caring, compassionate, and NOT the naughty, aggressive, or defiant child she was presenting as. Parents, always follow your gut and advocate for your child. l
Expert Ask the
Do you have a question for a Sioux Empire expert? ‘hood will be inviting area experts to weigh in and answer various questions from our readers.
City of Sioux Falls Westside Recreation Center
Jackie Nelson Recreation Manager
Why become a Westside Recreation Center passholder?
Enroll for a monthly or annual pass for the City’s first indoor recreation center. Here’s why:
1. The Westside Recreation Center has flexible pricing options for children, adults, seniors, veterans, and families with no cancellation fees!
2. With a pass, you and your family can access amenities such as an indoor aquatics facility, sport courts, indoor track, fitness equipment and classes, locker rooms, and reservable rooms.
3. Enjoy year-round recreational classes, programs, and events led by our team of experienced instructors at no additional cost to passholders.
Our team is excited to welcome you to this new indoor recreation space. We look forward to seeing you as a Westside Recreation Center passholder! 8701 West 32nd St Sioux Falls, SD 57106 siouxfalls.gov/westside 605.367.8222
What are the benefits of a Programmable Thermostat?
• You can set the thermostat to a specific temperature at a set time throughout the day. Most thermostats learn what it takes to adjust and heat or cool so that it is that temperature at that set time.
• Thermostats can learn your schedule when you are home or away with cell phones and adjust accordingly.
• You can set the temp back when you are sleeping.
• Helps in saving energy costs.
• Automatically adjust temperature so that you don’t have to remember to change it.
Advancements in thermostats have come a long way in the last 10 to 15 years. It is not always just about the temperature in your house.
PO Box 1834
Sioux Falls, SD 57101
Foleysheating.com
605.940.8283
Founder
What are some signs of mental health struggles?
There is no universal checklist for spotting someone struggling with mental health. Everyone is different, and there’s never just one reason someone may take their life. However, trusting your instincts and noticing significant changes in behavior can make a critical difference.
These changes might align with common perceptions, such as depression, withdrawal, or giving away belongings. However, they can also manifest as anger, risky behaviors, substance use, or unusual excitement. Subtle cues like “I’m just a burden” or “I feel so trapped” should always prompt a conversation.
If someone you care about undergoes a dramatic personality shift, don’t hesitate to act. Assume you are the only one who will intervene and start a conversation. Trust your gut—your vigilance and empathy could make a life-saving difference.
7901 W 55th St
Sioux Falls, SD 57106
fightlikeaninja.org
605.214.3490
Foley’s Heating & AC Inc. Travis Ball Vice President
Fight Like A Ninja Angela Drake
children ages 16 or younger
how it works
Special offers and discounts will be sent to your email 45 days prior to your child’s birthday to help plan their celebration. On the date of their birthday, coupons and/or offers from our partners will be emailed to you, redeemable for the specified time on each offer. Scan the QR code to join.
You’ll love our line of thinking.
Anderson-Smith offers a range of pediatric therapy services to help your kiddo unlock their full potential. We believe in creating a caring, compassionate environment for kids, their families and our team.
Our therapists are specially trained in the field of pediatric therapy including additional education making them well versed in the specific needs of children. Sessions incorporate play whenever possible.
We’re accepting new patients and ready to see you.
We provide:
Speech and Language Therapy
Feeding and Swallowing Therapy
Bottling and Breastfeeding Support
Occupational Therapy
Dyslexia Assessments
Literacy and Dyslexia Tutoring
Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy
