Detroit Lakes Teenager to return Home after more than 40 Days in Hospital

DETROIT LAKES (KDLM) – A Detroit Lakes teenager will return home this week after spending more than 40 days in a hospital in the Twin Cities.

17 year-old, Duston Steeke went in for open heart surgery for heart valve replacement on July 6, 2022. A procedure that should have lasted several hours took more than 18 and was riddled with complications as well as life saving measures.

Steeke will return home on Wednesday, but will require ongoing medical care, prescriptions, mobility devices, home adaptations and more.

“He’s in great spirits, he’s been very motivated since the time he woke up – he wants to keep working, he’s been fighting so hard,” said Kristi McInnes, Seeke’s aunt.

Family and friends have come together to coordinate a fundraiser to help alleviate some of the financial strain for Seeke’s parents Amy & John Steeke while they focus on their son’s recovery.

Donations can be made via Lend A Hand Up, an organization that gives financial help for families with medical bills. Donations will be boosted 20% up to $5,000.