Family Friend Humbled By Support For Trooper

South Dakota Highway Patrol Trooper Andrew Steen has undergone several surgeries since October 17.

You may have noticed several fundraisers for trooper Steen around town, including a big one Monday morning.

Taco John's restaurants in Sioux Falls were buzzing with activity as a portion of the morning's Breakfast Burrito sales went to Trooper Steen and his family.

It was a huge outpouring from the community raising more than $12,000.

A close family friend organizing many of the events gives us an update on the trooper who remains in critical condition.

For nearly two weeks, 34-year-old Steen's remained in a drug-induced coma. He is still in critical condition following a high-speed chase where police say 25-year-old Rachel Coleman hit Steen with a car, causing severe swelling in the trooper’s brain.

"We've kind of fallen into a routine where we all go and see Andrew everyday," Holly Stauffacher said.

Stauffacher is a close family friend. She says Steen's condition is stable Monday, after his blood oxygen levels suddenly dropped three days ago.

"Friday night was obviously a hard night," Stauffacher said. "Once it was done and over with, we knew Andrew was stable, his mom said to me, 'Remember to thank God that he's letting us keep him.'"

But the community is rallying around Steen and his family by reaching into their pockets and donating thousands of dollars to pay for bills and other expenses while he's in the hospital. Stauffacher is shocked by the support.

"Thank you for all the prayers. Thank you for everything. It's amazing and a bit overwhelming that everybody cares so much, but it's very much appreciated and we feel it," Stauffacher said.

And while Steen received his serious injuries while trying to protect the public, Stauffacher says the outpouring of support couldn't go to a better man.

"He's just an amazing guy. He will go out of his way to help people and be there for other people," Stauffacher said. "It's our turn to give back for what he's done for us."

The next fundraiser for Steen is Tuesday night at Results Personal Training at 5020 S. Tennis Lane in Sioux Falls at 6:00 p.m.

On November 13, Stauffacher is holding a cut-a-thon at Artist Hair Studio at 315 N. Heritage Parkway in Tea from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. where 100 percent of all haircuts benefit Steen.