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Dr. Grant Syverson Recognized for Humanitarian Efforts

Posted 10/18/23 (Wed)

Dr. Grant Syverson, a pediatric rheumatologist physician from Fargo, was recognized during the North Dakota Medical Association’s (NDMA) Annual Meeting for being the 2023 recipient of the COPIC Humanitarian Award.

This prestigious award honors a North Dakota Medical Association (NDMA) physician for volunteer medical services and contributions to the community. The award is sponsored by COPIC - NDMA’s medical liability partner – and designates a $10,000 donation to the recipient’s charity of choice.

Nominated by Make-A-Wish North Dakota, the foundation shares that Dr. Syverson exemplifies what it means to be a humanitarian both within his profession and beyond. His support for Wish Kids has helped them grow and experience life in ways they otherwise wouldn’t have.

While many rheumatology patients are unaware that they qualify for a wish, Dr. Syverson has been diligent in referring his patients, allowing them the “opportunity to have opportunities” as he puts it.

Beyond Make-A-Wish, Dr. Syverson volunteers with the Arthritis Foundation in North Dakota, its annual Jingle Bell Run and Camp Sisu for young people with arthritis. He also serves on the board of ShareHouse, which provides substance use disorder services to the region, and serves on the Fargo Cass County Board of Health.

Make-A-Wish ND Regional Director Amanda Godfread said that having a child’s physician take part in a wish is incredibly impactful for wish kids and their families because they get to relate to each other as people, not simply as a physician.

“This gives the wish child an opportunity to see that their care team does in fact care, and it’s not just about the lab tests and surgeries,” said Godfread.

Dr. Syverson provides that support and has also been known to take the time to attend a wish child’s event.

In addition to being present, Dr. Syverson has asked his patients to share stories and photos from their wishes, again showing how much he takes an interest in their lives and overall wellbeing. “I love hearing about their trips and seeing pictures,” he says. “They are so appreciative that they get to do something they choose. It’s a really great program.”

NDMA is a member organization dedicated to protecting physician practices and patient care.