Doreen Heikes- HDSA South Dakota Chapter

Doreen remembers when her close friend, Julie, said she had something to share. Julie’s dad had been diagnosed with Huntington’s disease. Doreen had never heard of Huntington’s disease, so she didn’t know what that meant for Julie’s dad or their family. Some time later, Julie approached Doreen and asked her if she would consider joining the HDSA South Dakota chapter board. Still not knowing a lot about HD, Doreen wanted to show her support and she knew she could volunteer her time, so she said yes.

Doreen Heike has been a part of the South Dakota chapter for eight years. She has learned a lot about HD and has been a part of many great experiences. She has worked the registration tent and auction table at the Team Hope Walk and is on the Tee Off for HD golf committee. The chapter also hosts a Bingo and Brews event in the late fall. As the treasurer, Doreen has made many trips to the post office and bank, compiled monthly financials, and probably licked hundreds of envelopes!

As a HD volunteer, Doreen has met people with HD, people who have family or a friend with HD, people who have lost loved ones to HD and even people who don’t know much about HD but attend an event to support someone they care about. Doreen would like to encourage everyone to keep telling their HD story. You never know who you might encourage to ask, “How can I help?”