NDAD Helps Brock Focus on Health, Not Stress
Published: Friday, January 2, 2026
“NDAD is just great at what you do. You take a lot of stress off my plate,” says Brock Hillebrand of Grand Forks.
Brock’s journey hasn’t been easy. Born with congenital heart disease, he also lives with liver disease and has suffered a stroke—all before turning 34. From 1991 to 1994, as a newborn and toddler, Brock endured five open-heart surgeries. Eventually, he will need a transplant.
Because of his complex medical needs, Brock regularly travels to Rochester, MN, for specialized evaluations. “Travel in general is expensive, and NDAD helps out a lot,” he shares. Since 2018, NDAD has been assisting Brock with medical travel expenses, easing the financial burden of these critical trips.
“The application is straightforward and doesn’t take much time to complete at all. I’d tell people to fill it out early so there’s enough time to go through the details of what you need; it’s very self-explanatory.”
Brock’s next trip to Rochester is just around the corner, and he’s grateful NDAD is in his corner.
“I want everyone to know that NDAD is a great resource to be used. I’m so glad I contacted them when I did. It takes a lot of stress off my trips.”
He also reminds others: “Asking for help isn’t a sign of weakness. It’s a sign of strength. It’s saying, ‘Hey, I need a helping hand.’ And NDAD is there with outstretched hands.”
How NDAD Can Help You
NDAD offers Direct Financial Assistance to help qualified individiuals with:
- Medical travel costs (fuel, lodging)
- Essential medical needs such as prescriptions, supplies and equipment not fully covered by insurance.
These programs are designed to reduce financial stress so you can focus on your health and well-being.
How to Apply
- Visit NDAD's Financial Assistance >>
- Complete application with details required (call for a printed application or assistance with completion)
- Submit supporting documentation as requested.
- NDAD staff will review your application and contact you with next steps.
Tip: Apply early to allow for processing before your scheduled medical travel.