Patrons

FALL 2023

TORRANCE MEMORIAL FOUNDATION

CRAIG AND JUDY LEACH A legacy of service, leadership and gratitude.

32ND ANNUAL READERS’ CHOICE AWARDS

Boar d N ote s

FAMILY ROOTS RUN DEEP WRITTEN BY SONG CHO KLEIN

W

Song and Dave Klein give generously to Torrance Memorial and always enjoy the Holiday Festival Gala.

e see reports every day in the news, on social media and all over the internet about car accidents, crime and even pandemics. Our community is not immune to these challenges, but we often feel them individually rather than through media channels. First responders put their lives at risk, helping us in the critical moments when we need it most. Torrance Memorial Medical Center doctors, nurses and staff stand by daily, ready to help everyone who passes through their doors.

My family came to the United States from South Korea when I was 3 years old. My dad, a pharmaceutical importer, began building a new business in Los Angeles.

My mom became very involved in the local Korean community (the largest concentration of Koreans outside Seoul). My sisters and I graduated from UCLA and began our careers and families here in the South Bay. I met my husband, Dave, at UCLA, and we married in 1988 and started a family soon after. Our sons, Christopher and Jonathan, grew up in Palos Verdes, and we became involved with their various schools and sports activities.

Our first experience with the Torrance Memorial emergency room happened in the early 1980s when my parents were involved in a serious car accident. Despite the efforts of talented doctors and nurses, my mother lost sight in her left eye that day. In the early 2000s, my father was diagnosed with ALS. As a family, we saw firsthand how so many worked tirelessly to help him during a very difficult time.

Serving on the Foundation board since 2011 has been a tremendously fulfilling experience. It is an honor to represent Torrance Memorial as an ambassador to our

community for all the services the hospital provides.

Working with the Foundation to raise funds for the hospital has given me a much deeper appreciation for all it takes to run a premier regional medical center.

It is so rewarding to introduce friends and neighbors to the Ambassadors group as well as the Patrons organization so they can begin to learn more about what it takes to build a medical center ranked #4 in the metropolitan Los Angeles/Orange County area and #9 in the state of California by U.S. News & World Report.

It’s also been fun participating in the Holiday Festival, Golf Tournament and many Ambassadors and Patrons events. Over the years, we’ve built special friendships with doctors, nurses and staff at Torrance Memorial and have learned the depth of their innovation, expertise and care every day.

Torrance Memorial is currently planning to double the size of the emergency department to support the growing needs of the South Bay. The emergency department had more than 100,000 visits in fiscal year 2023, more than any other hospital in L.A. other than UCLA—and this figure is expected to grow. The $50 million project is targeted for completion in 2029 and will deliver advanced technology and streamlined processes for our friends and families today and into the future. The state-of-the-art, two-story facility will service an ever-growing demand for emergency services.

In a world where the focus is too often on the individual, supporting an organization that gives so much to the community is truly gratifying. •

FAL L 2 023 | PATR ON S 3

Boar d o f D i r ec to r s

TORRANCE MEMORIAL MEDICAL CENTER FOUNDATION EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

CONNIE LAI, ESQ.

MARK LURIE, MD, PRESIDENT

Board Chair, JI REN Primary School Former Litigator, Musick Peeler

A Publication of the Torrance Memorial Foundation E D ITO R

Julie Taylor

Retired Co-director, Lundquist Lurie Cardiovascular Institute

RICHARD E. LUCY

PHIL PAVESI, VICE PRESIDENT

LAURIE MCCARTHY

Retired Aerospace Executive, TRW

Retired Investment Banker

GREG GEIGER, TREASURER

W. DAVID MCKINNIE, III

Principal, Westport Capital Partners, LLC

Consultant, McKinnie Consulting

HEIDI HOFFMAN, MD, SECRETARY

ERIC C. NAKKIM, MD

Radiology, Torrance Memorial Medical Center

Laura Watts

JOSEPH HOHM, CPA/JD, OFFICER

Emergency Medicine, Torrance Memorial Medical Center

Medical Accounting Service, Inc.

TOM O’HERN

C O N T R I B U TO R S

PATRICK THEODORA, OFFICER

CEO and Director, The Macerich Company

Co-founder and Chairman, DocMagic

TWANNA ROGERS

MICHAEL ZISLIS, OFFICER

Co-owner, The Thermal Race Club Tower Energy Group

Owner, The Zislis Group

Investor

RICHARD K. ROUNSAVELLE, DDS

BOARD MEMBERS

General Dentistry MICHAEL ROUSE

E X E C U TI V E D I R E C TO R M A R K E TI N G

Erin Fiorito P U B LI S H E R , C R E ATI V E D I R E C TO R

Vincent Rios C O PY E D ITO R

Lisa Buffington John Ferrari Song Cho Klein Diane Krieger Nancy Sokoler Steiner Melissa Bean Sterzick Laura Roe Stevens Julie Taylor Sylvia Thompson

Community Volunteer

Retired, VP of Philanthropy and Community Affairs, Toyota Motor Sales

NADINE BOBIT

PATRICIA SACKS, MD

Community Volunteer JOHN G. BAKER

Retired, Radiologist, The Vasek and Anna Maria Polak Breast Diagnostic Center

Founding Partner, The Brickstone Companies

SAM SHETH

HARV DANIELS

Retired Airline Executive

Co-founder and Senior Managing Director, VerityPoint

THYRA ENDICOTT, MD

STEVEN SPIERER

Radiation Oncology, Torrance Memorial Medical Center

Partner, Spierer, Woodward, Corbalis & Goldberg

PAUL G. GIULIANO

JANICE TECIMER

President, Integrated Food Service

Community Volunteer

ALAN GOLDSTEIN

RUSSELL VARON

First Vice President, PVG Group, RBC Wealth Management

Owner, Morgan’s Jewelers

GINA KIRKPATRICK

Retired, Director of Boeing Satellite Systems

Community Volunteer

ANN ZIMMERMAN

Published by

SONG CHO KLEIN

Community Volunteer

V I N C E N T R I O S C R E ATI V E , I N C .

CHRISTY ABRAHAM

P H OTO G R A P H E R S

Siri Berting Deidre Davidson Philicia Endelman Micheal Neveux Edward McClure Shane O’Donnell William Townsend Vincent Rios

ROBERT A. YOUNG

Community Volunteer

VincentRiosCreative.com

Torrance Memorial Medical Center treats all people equally without regard to race, color, national origin, age, gender or disability. The section 504 coordinator can be reached at 310-784-4894. If you do not wish to recieve this publication, please contact marketing communications at 310-517-4706

©2023 Torrance Memorial Medical Center.

All rights reserved. Reproduction or use in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited.

4 PAT R ON S | FALL 2 02 3

Cale n dar

SPECIAL EVENTS F E STI VA L FA S H I O N S H OW

Tuesday, November 28 10:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. | $250 per person F E STI VA L G A L A

TORRANCE MEMORIAL CELEBRATES HOLIDAY FESTIVAL’S 40TH ANNIVERSARY Themed holiday trees and the South Bay’s largest holiday boutique and live entertainment will take place November 28 through December 3 under the big white tent.

HOLIDAY FESTIVAL EVENTS

All activities are located at Torrance Memorial Medical Center, 3330 Lomita Blvd., Torrance $5 general admission; children 5 and younger are free.

For recorded general information, call 310-517-4606.

To purchase special events tickets, call 310-517-4703.

PUBLIC EXHIBIT AND BOUTIQUE SHOPPING HOURS Tuesday, November 28 1:30 to 3:30 p.m.

Friday, December 1 Closed to the public

Wednesday, November 29 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. – Open to the general public Senior Day #1 – Free admission for seniors and the physically challenged 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Saturday, December 2 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. – Free admission with a new, unwrapped toy

Thursday, November 30 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. – Open to the general public Senior Day #2 – Free admission for seniors and the physically challenged 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Sunday, December 3 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Friday, December 1 6 to 11 p.m. | $500 per person after November 3 Visit TorranceMemorial.org/holidayfestival to purchase tickets or view the entertainment schedule.

HOLIDAY FESTIVAL COLLECTS TOYS FOR TOTS Torrance Memorial’s Holiday Festival will once again support the annual Holiday Toy Drive of the Torrance police and fire departments. On Saturday, December 2, collection bins will be placed inside the Holiday Festival tent. Attendees are encouraged to bring a new, unwrapped toy of $5 value or more to help children in need have a joyous holiday season. Those who bring a toy will receive free admission to the tent. The departments will deliver the toys to families throughout the South Bay after the festival.

GIVING OPPORTUNITIES

All proceeds benefit Torrance Memorial’s Emergency Department Campaign HEROES TREE

Honor a hero in your life—physician, nurse, staff member, department, patient or community member—with recognition at the 12-foot decorated tree in the Grand Lobby of the Lundquist Tower.

Donation levels: $5,000 $2,500 $1,500 $500 $250 $100* *$100 minimum donation per honoree

FAL L 2 023 | PATR ON S 5

Tab le o f Co nte nts

26 Patro n Pro f i le 26 Faithful, fearless and humble, for nearly 40 years Craig Leach has charted the course, set the pace and shaped the culture of Torrance Memorial with his wife, Judy, by his side.

O n th e Cove r Craig and Judy Leach at home in Palos Verdes.

16 6 PAT R ON S | FALL 2 02 3

PHOTOGRAPHED BY MICHAEL NEVEUX

42 Pro g r e s s N ote s

F utu r e focu s

10 14 16 18

40 Aida Hillway’s legacy at 101 41 How to talk about your final wishes

Celebrating 40 years of the Holiday Festival Treating pulmonary embolisms Stroke patient Tom McCarthy What you need to know about fentanyl

38

yppa pl ay- by- pl ay 42 Dr. Jamie McKinnell and his family

Cli n i cal S potli g ht 20 A Team Approach to Cancer Care: Torrance Memorial Tumor Boards

E ve ry D o nati o n Co u nts 24 Vistas for Children, pediatric books, Squishmallows and Barbie donations, Novas graduating senior class, affirmation jars and an evening of comedy 36 Patricia and Gerald Turpanjian’s $5.1 million gift supports the new Interventional Radiology suite

Am bas sad o r s Co r n e r

I n Yo u r co m m u n it y 44 Holiday Festival 2022 winners 45 Mark Lurie, MD celebrates retirement 46 ED expansion fundraising events 48 37th annual golf tournament 52 Heritage Society luncheon 53 Wine procurement party 54 Ambassadors at Comedy & Magic 56 YPPA summer party

S u ppo rte r s 58 Torrance Memorial thanks our many supporters

38 Timme and Kurt Gunderlock build up their community

F O LLOW U S !

TorranceMemorial @TMHealthSystem

tmmcmedia torrancememorial

Patrons Magazine welcomes your feedback at patronsmagazine@tmmc.com

FAL L 2 023 | PATR ON S 7

Awar ds U.S. News & World Report Prestigious awards are earned, and Torrance Memorial Medical Center has again been recognized as a Best Hospital for 2023–2024 for the 12th year by U.S. News & World Report. This year we moved up the rankings to the 9th highest ranking hospital for overall hospital quality in California and to 4th in the Los Angeles and Orange County regions. This year, we are again nationally ranked in diabetes and endocrinology and ranked as high performing in seven specialties including urology.

We also rank high performing in 15 of 21 conditions and procedures areas. Ranking in the top 3% shows we are delivering on our vision to provide patient-centered care with the highest level of quality and service to the community. It means we are honoring our promise to deliver our core values of Service, Excellence, Knowledge, Stability and Community.

Nationally Ranked Specialties Diabetes and Endocrinology

2023–2024: HIGH PERFORMING SPECIALTIES

2023–2024L HIGH PERFORMING CONDITIONS AND PROCEDURES

High performing in seven specialties and ranked nationally in diabetes and endocrinology.

• Diabetes endocrinology – ranking #41 in the nation • Cardiology, heart & vascular surgery • Gastroenterology and GI surgery • Geriatrics • Neurology/neurosurgery • Orthopedics • Pulmonologist lung surgery • Urology NEW

15 conditions/procedures out of 21 • Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease • Colon cancer surgery • Diabetes • Heart attack • Heart bypass surgery • Heart Failure • Hip fracture • Hip replacement

• Kidney failure • Leukemia, lymphoma & myeloma • Lung cancer surgery • Pneumonia • Prostate cancer surgery • Stroke • TAVR NEW

Academic Consortium Global Integrated Health Network Torrance Memorial Medical Center has joined over 75 of the world’s most recognized academic medical centers and health systems as a new Academic Consortium for Integrative Medicine and Health member. For integrative medicine professionals and students, the Academic Consortium is the world’s most comprehensive community for advancing the practice of whole healthcare, with leading expertise in research, clinical care and education.

Membership with the Academic Consortium will help Torrance Memorial continue to expand our integrative medicine program. It will also connect us with other institutions working toward the same goal and encourage knowledge-sharing, networking and best practices.

8 PAT R ON S | FALL 2 02 3

JC Gold Seal of Approval for Total Hip and Knee Replacement Certification After rigorous onsite reviews, Torrance Memorial has again earned The Joint Commission’s Gold Seal of Approval® for Advanced Total Hip and Knee Replacement Certification by demonstrating continuous compliance with its performance standards. The Gold Seal is a symbol of quality that reflects a health care organization’s commitment to providing safe and quality patient care.

Newsweek 2023 Recognized by Newsweek as part of its World’s Best Hospitals 2023 list, Torrance Memorial Medical Center ranked 223rd in the world, 40th best hospital in the nation and 10th best in California.

Newsweek’s America’s Best Cancer Center Hospitals 2023

South Bay’s Best We are honored our community has once again voted Torrance Memorial Medical Center as the BEST hospital in the South Bay. Readers of the Daily Breeze 32ND ANNUAL READERS’ CHOICE AWARDS and The Beach Reporter also voted us BEST: Cancer Treatment Center, Urgent Care, Knee Center, Physical Therapy Center, Nutrition Services, Workplace and Medical and Hospital Groups. We were also voted FAVORITE: Local Outpatient Pharmacy, Gift/Boutique Shop and Medical Supply Store.

Torrance Memorial Medical Center has been recognized as part of Newsweek’s inaugural list of America’s Best Cancer Hospitals 2023. This award provides patients and family members with comprehensive resources for making informed decisions about cancer care. The award list was announced on June 28 and is currently available on the Newsweek website.

Newsweek and Statista provided underlying data analysis based on three data sources: 1. Nationwide Online Survey: Health care professionals and hospital managers with knowledge about oncology were asked to recommend leading cancer hospitals in the United States.

2. Hospital Quality Metric: Focusing on indicators relevant to oncology care was considered.

3. Results from Patient Surveys: Publicly available data from hospital patient surveys were used to analyze patient experience.

Based on the analysis results, Torrance Memorial is pleased to be recognized as America’s Best Cancer Hospitals 2023 reinforcing our reputation of expert care and excellence in providing benchmark, leading-care services for cancer patients. We are honored and proud of this accomplishment.

VOTED BEST:

Newsweek’s World’s Best Specialized Hospitals 2024 in Cardiology

American Heart Association Get with the Guidelines Awards 2023

Torrance Memorial Medical Center has been recognized for the fourth year in a row as part of Newsweek’s list of the World’s Best Specialized Hospitals 2024 in Cardiology. This prestigious award is presented by Newsweek and Statista Inc., who invited more than 40,000 medical experts—including doctors, hospital managers and health care professionals—to participate in online surveys allowing them to recommend and assess various hospitals within their respective specializations.

Congratulations to the Lundquist Lurie Cardiovascular Institute for this esteemed recognition.

Torrance Memorial Medical Center has received five American Heart Association Get With The Guidelines and Mission: Lifeline achievement awards for demonstrating commitment to following up-to-date, research-based guidelines for the treatment of heart disease and stroke, ultimately leading to more lives saved, shorter recovery times and fewer readmissions to the hospital.

Thank you to our physicians, nurses and staff who have worked to close the gaps separating patients from timely access to appropriate treatments. Our commitment to quality patient care is our #1 priority, and we are proud to be recognized for Gold Plus performance in Heart Failure, Stoke and STEMI Receiving, Gold in Resuscitation and NSTEMI.

• Hospital • Cancer Treatment Center: Hunt Cancer Center • Urgent Care Facility: Torrance Memorial Urgent Care • Knee Center • Physical Therapy Center • Nutrition Services • Workplace • Hospital Group: Torrance Memorial Physician Network Primary Care/IPA • Medical Group: Torrance Memorial Physician Network/IPA

VOTED FAVORITE:

• Medical Supply Store: Healthlinks • Pharmacy: Local Torrance Memorial Outpatient Pharmacy • Gift/Boutique Shop: Torrance Memorial Gift Shop

FAL L 2 023 | PATR ON S 9

Pro g r e s s N ote s

40 YEARS OF HOLIDAY SPIRIT Magic happens in an iconic tent at Torrance Memorial Medical Center.

WRITTEN BY LAURA ROE STEVENS | PHOTOGRAPHED BY SHANE O'DONNELL

“This festival uplifts everyone who comes—especially our seniors and children. When they enter the large, white, iconic tent and look around at the trees and decorations, their faces light up. It’s a wonderful feeling,” says co-chair Carolyn Snyder, who has been involved with Torrance Memorial’s Holiday Festival for 39 years.

In 1984, the first Festival of Trees—then a four-day event—was held in the hospital’s underground garage and raised $10,000 from auctioned trees. Flash-forward to 2022, and Torrance Memorial’s Holiday Festival has grown into a six-day event with gorgeous trees, unique holiday finds, talented performances and more. Since its inception, it has raised nearly $16 million to support Torrance Memorial.

Here’s a look at some behind-the-scenes events that bring the spirit to life.

SANTA’S ELVES IN THE SOUTH BAY

Much like Santa’s workshop, the Holiday Festival has elves, in the form of dedicated volunteers who work year-round to craft, design and plan tree-themed ornaments, decorations and other delights. Festival Boutique volunteers are under the tutelage of Bev George, the co-chair of Torrance Memorial’s Holiday Festival since 2011. Bev has extensive career experience—from crafting to accounting—and trade show expertise in demonstrating, marketing, purchasing, pricing and selling products. “All I did in my career led to this.

I’m so happy to be a part of it,” Bev says.

Thirty retired volunteers who want to give back gather year-round every Thursday. We do a lot—from inventorying in January to making mini trees, garlands, decorations and ornaments,” Bev explains. “We have a pricing team, a craft group and glittering queens for the poinsettias. Everyone has a job.”

IF YOU BUILD IT, THEY WILL COME

While the Holiday Festival tent is magical, it takes a village to create it. Just ask Lisa Takata, Torrance Memorial Foundation special events and Patrons program manager.

Lisa and her team have the planning, installation and teardown of the tent down to a science.

“Resurrecting the tent and subfloor starts the week before

10 PATR ON S | FALL 2 02 3

Thanksgiving and is a four- to five-day process,” she says.

“In addition, the daily floorplan turnovers for the various activities require thoughtful planning and coordination that begins six months before the event. For instance, the fashion show needs a runway, which is replaced by a dance floor for community entertainers the next day. The gala bar area in the evening becomes the kid zone area in the daytime.

The gala cashier area becomes a food court for public days.

Lighting and sound need to be changed daily as well. It can get challenging, but it’s very rewarding to be a part of creating the holiday magic.”

CHERISHED MEMORIES

“Every festival has a story,” says Carolyn. When asked to share just one memory, she finds it tricky. Rain has been a consistent theme. “One year, the Los Angeles Times wrote: ‘The Torrance Festival of Trees is L.A.’s answer to the drought.’ It rains almost every year—usually during setup!”

Another consistent theme is Torrance Bakery’s treats. They are always a huge hit—not just with human patrons.

“One year, Torrance Bakery baked gingerbread houses and put them on a tree,” Carolyn shares. “Birds flew into the tent.

They thought the gingerbread houses were so good, they ate them all! Torrance Bakery had to bake all new ones for the people who bought the tree. Of course, we don’t put baked goods on trees anymore!”

A FAMILY AFFAIR

Family time is a big part of the festival. Parents watch children perform in musical groups. Grandchildren hold their grandparents’ hands and walk (or race) around the winter wonderland. And volunteers often work with family members.

“At one point, I had four generations in my family working together on this festival,” recalls Carolyn. “My mother, four children, eight grandchildren and four great-grandchildren decorated trees.”

Carolyn adds her family’s favorite moments are seeing the faces of the people when they walk into the tent for the first time. “Their eyes open, and they go, ‘Ahh.’ It’s worth it.”

Carolyn Snyder and Bev George share a love for the Holiday Festival and all the wonderful volunteers who make it a magical experience for the community.

FAL L 2 023 | PATR ON S 11

Pro g r e s s N ote s

HOLIDAY FESTIVAL TIMELINE 1984

1992

2001–2002

Festival of Trees debuted, presented

by Las Amigas—Torrance Memorial’s volunteer fundraising support organization. The inaugural event was held in the parking garage at Torrance Memorial.

Held in July, a Raise the Tent fundraiser helped defray rising costs.

Festival of Trees received a new name: Holiday Festival. The five-day event moved back on campus, in a 25,000-square-foot tent with nearly 15,000 in attendance.

1995 A fashion show/brunch was added to the week’s festivities, with volunteers modeling the latest fashions and their husbands serving as wait staff.

1990 After a few location changes, the festival settled at Wilson Park with nearly 8,000 people in attendance.

12 PATR ONS | FALL 2 02 3

2003 A professionally produced fashion show, complete with shopping vendors, was added to the event’s lineup.

2009

2013

Torrance Memorial Luminaries and Novas volunteer organization hosted a new festival event: Lunch with Santa.

Hospital benefactors Melanie and Richard Lundquist announced their $50 million gift to support the completion of a new patient tower.

2016 Holiday Festival broke $1 million in funds raised in supporting the hospital.

2020

Holiday Festival became “Holiday Festival in Spirit” due to the outbreak of COVID-19. Despite mandated quarantine measures, the online festivities raised $1.2 million through the generosity of the community.

2023 It takes the talents of hundreds of dedicated volunteers to produce the Holiday Festival as we know it today.

2011 Priscilla Hunt donated $11.5 million for the Hunt Cancer Center.

2017 Priscilla Hunt announced a $22 million gift to help fund the renovation of the North Patient Tower and advancements at the radiation oncology department.

FAL L 2 023 | PATR ON S 13

Pro g r e s s N ote s

Celebrating with the expert team of physicians who quickly diagnosed, responded and treated a lifethreatening PE: Richard Bracken, DO, Aziz Wanis, George So, MD, Gretchen Lent, MD

TREATING PULMONARY EMBOLISMS Reversing the problem, with better outcomes

WRITTEN BY JOHN FERRARI | PHOTOGRAPHED BY PHILICIA ENDELMAN

W

hen patients arrive at Torrance Memorial’s emergency department, they have this working in their favor: The staff knows time is critical. Younger patients in serious distress with no obvious trauma or comorbidities often have one of two conditions, says emergency physician Richard Bracken, DO: a vascular catastrophe, such as a heart attack, or a pulmonary embolism (PE). That’s why he rushed to the ambulance bay with a portable ultrasound machine when Aziz Wanis arrived the afternoon of New Year’s Eve last year.

“When he came in to the hospital, he

14 PATR ON S | FALL 2 02 3

was pale, confused and young,” Dr. Bracken recalls. “It was obvious he was very sick.

Ultrasound is the fastest way to determine what’s going on. You can quickly look at the heart, the lungs and the vascular system.”

Wanis, 43, had woken up that morning feeling fine. Although it was Saturday, he had planned to go to work. So he went downstairs, leaving his wife asleep. That’s when the day took a turn for the worse.

He fell, knocking himself unconscious. He hadn’t eaten the night before and attributed his fall to low blood sugar levels.

“Going up the stairs to go back to bed was like climbing a mountain,” Wanis remembers. He tried to rest, but when his

wife, Amira Wanis, checked on him a while later, the sheets were drenched with sweat and he was breathing hard.

“Every time I breathed out, I made a loud snoring sound,” he says. “When I breathed, I could feel my spirit coming out.” Amira called 911, and Aziz was rushed to Torrance Memorial. By now it was more than five hours since his fall. Whatever was wrong, there was no time to waste.

The ultrasound gave Dr. Bracken a good idea of the problem. “The right ventricle was very enlarged,” he says, “typical in patients with a massive pulmonary embolism.”

That’s when Wanis, now near death, had something else working in his favor:

Torrance Memorial’s focus on treating PEs—blood clots that stop the flow of blood to an artery in the lungs.

The hospital is working toward its certification as a PE Center of Excellence— the first hospital on the West Coast to do so. As part of that goal, Torrance Memorial is creating a pulmonary embolism response team (PERT)—a group of medical staff across departments trained to quickly and in coordination diagnose, respond to and treat PE cases. Although the PERT is still being developed, Dr. Bracken’s reflex actions underscore the importance of quick action.

“When you have someone that sick, it’s all kind of simultaneous,” he explains. “I’m helping nurses get him ready for the CT scanner, ordering blood clot-busting drugs from the pharmacy. During the CAT scan, I’m calling the interventional radiologist, asking for a review of the CAT scan images immediately. We try to decrease any delay in care as much as possible. It was on the order of half an hour to 45 minutes from the time Mr. Wanis hit the door to get him to interventional radiology and surgery.”

While Dr. Bracken coordinated with the hospital’s departments, ED medical director Gretchen Lent, MD, was in charge of Wanis’ initial treatment. “His vital signs were OK; that’s why we had time to order the blood clot-busting medication, CT scan and everything else,” she says. “With a young, healthy man PE is more likely than a heart attack or stroke. As soon as we had our suspicions, we called to bring in an interventionist.”

The interventional radiologist (IR) was George So, MD, who remembers the case well. “We want every single PE case to be like that case,” he says. “Everyone involved acted like a PERT team. That organization, just training for it, allowed for a very, very quick response. With a PERT, we know exactly who is doing what.

There’s coordination between the ED physicians, technologists and nursing staff, and the IR team that includes radiologists,

nursing staff, anesthesiologists and the IR physicians.”

The preliminary PE diagnosis was confirmed by a CT pulmonary angiogram study. “That’s an advanced scan to detect PE in the lungs,” Dr. So explains. “We have AI-driven software that pre-scans the images to detect anomalies like blood clots and alert the radiologist to them. It’s another way we save time.”

This is where Wanis had one more factor working in his favor: Torrance Memorial recently started using PE aspiration devices. These are essentially sophisticated catheters used to perform aspiration (suction) thrombectomies; that is, they remove blood clots causing PEs in minimally invasive procedures.

“We usually insert the catheter into a vein in the groin, guide it through the heart to the pulmonary arteries, remove the clot and filter the patient’s blood to be returned to the body,” Dr. So explains. “It typically takes about an hour.”

These devices are a game changer in the treatment of PEs, Dr. So says, adding an option in addition to the use of the clot-busting drug tPA (tissue plasminogen activator). “tPA takes about two days to work,” says Dr. So. “The medication saves lives, but it’s high risk. There can be serious side effects: bleeding in the brain or stomach. Using the new aspiration devices, the patient can avoid those side effects.”

The devices are also a generation ahead of older mechanical thrombectomy devices.

Traditional thrombectomies (blood clot removals) involve the loss of a significant amount of blood along with the clot material. The new devices filter the patient’s blood so it can be returned to the body.

The end result? “Patients don’t have to go to the ICU and can be discharged as soon as the next day,” Dr. So says. “It’s a paradigm shift in how we think about PE, completely changing how we treat this condition.”

That’s important, he shares. “PEs are one of the deadliest conditions that can

happen—not just to the elderly but very young people too. They’re usually caused by a blood clot traveling from the leg to an artery supplying blood flow to the lungs, so blood and oxygen cannot get to the lungs. Blood cannot be oxygenated, causing internal suffocation. If patients with PE aren’t diagnosed quickly and treated accurately, there’s a very high mortality rate.”

Unlike tPA treatment for PE, the effects of an aspiration thrombectomy are immediate. “The patient’s oxygen levels go up, his heart rate goes down and he can breathe easier,” Dr. So says. “It’s gratifying to treat this type of condition. You can see the reversal right away.”

Earning the PERT Consortium’s PE Center of Excellence certification will mean Torrance Memorial has achieved high standards in every aspect of PE care.

“To qualify, they track all parameters of treatment and outcomes at the hospital,” Dr. So says. “It’s the pinnacle of PERT success.”

For Aziz and Amira Wanis, success is Aziz continuing with his life as before.

While he is now on blood-thinning medication to prevent any additional clots, he says he is back to normal life. “I’m very grateful to the doctors and everyone at the hospital. They took care of everything.” •

Minimally invasive PE aspiration devices are used to remove blood clots.

FAL L 2 023 | PATR ON S 15

Pro g r e s s N ote s

LISTENING TO HIS BODY An avid exerciser receives lifesaving cardiac care after speaking up about some symptoms that concerned him.

WRITTEN BY LISA BUFFINGTON PHOTOGRAPHED BY MICHEAL NEVEUX

T

om McCarthy, 67, has been an avid exerciser for 40 years. In 2022, after noticing a decrease in his ability to perform cardiovascular exercise along with an increased feeling of tightness in his upper right chest, McCarthy received lifesaving treatment from the team at Torrance Memorial Medical Center’s Lundquist Lurie Cardiovascular Institute.

“At first I thought I might have pulled a muscle, but after years of performing intense exercise and tracking my performance, I knew something wasn’t right,” says McCarthy, who along with his wife, Laurie, is a hospital Patron. Laurie is also a member of the Torrance Memorial Medical Center Foundation Board.

PERSONALIZED CARE

When McCarthy was 50, he had a coronary calcium scoring (CCS) test, which uses CT imaging technology to measure the amount of calcium in the arteries that supply blood to the heart. Although the test showed McCarthy’s heart was strong, it also showed high levels of calcium, or plaque, in his coronary arteries. Plaque can cause blockages that increase the risk of heart attack.

“My results were in the worst 5% of 50-year-old males,” says McCarthy. “At that time, my cardiologist ordered all kinds of tests, which I passed with no problem.”

McCarthy continued with his exercise regimen and had follow-up stress tests, which measure the heart’s response to exertion, every five years. During this time, he experienced no symptoms of coronary artery disease.

“I would see Tom at the gym,” says Lee Kissel, MD, a

16 PATR ON S | FALL 2 02 3

Tom McCarthy stays on top of his health and fitness by hitting the gym regularly and walking his labradoodle, Lucy.

primary care provider with Torrance Memorial Physician Network.

“I knew he had a high score on his CCS test, and when I last saw him for a physical in June 2022, I encouraged him to go to a cardiologist.”

With an upcoming trip to Egypt and Greece on his calendar and his elevated risk of heart disease on his mind, McCarthy decided to follow Dr. Kissel’s advice and schedule an appointment with Ankush Chhabra, MD, Torrance Memorial interventional cardiologist and peripheral vascular specialist.

After reviewing McCarthy’s health history and his symptoms while exercising, Dr. Chhabra ordered another round of testing— including a stress test, which McCarthy again passed easily. “When I listened to Tom describe his symptoms, I was concerned—even after the test results came back normal,” says Dr. Chhabra. “Given Tom’s health history, I ordered an angiogram to check for blockages in his coronary arteries.”

The angiogram revealed McCarthy’s left anterior descending artery was 95% blocked—which could have led to a devastating heart attack. “Heart attacks resulting from blockages in this artery are known as widowmakers,” says McCarthy. “Fortunately, after years of exercising, I had built up collateral circulation in my other arteries, which were supplying extra blood to my heart.”

quickly returned to baseline. “After the procedure, I have no pain or pressure in my chest while exercising, and my performance abilities have increased,” says McCarthy. “Two weeks after I got out of the hospital, I jumped off a 25-foot platform into the Aegean [Sea], and my doctors say there are no limitations to what I can do.”

McCarthy says although he initially ignored his symptoms and attributed them to normal aging, he’s glad he spoke up—and thankful his physicians listened. “It’s so important to know your body and take concerning symptoms seriously—especially if you have a history of heart problems. I’m thankful my doctors listened to me and that I had access to proven treatments provided by a team of cardiology experts.” •

Tom and Laurie McCarthy at home in their backyard in Manhattan Beach

THE RIGHT TREATMENT

On the same day Dr. Chhabra performed the angiogram, McCarthy and his wife—a former cardiac nurse—met with a cardiac surgeon and an interventional cardiologist to discuss treatment options. “I could have either coronary artery bypass surgery, which would require a long recovery, or a minimally invasive angioplasty and stent procedure, which would have a much shorter recovery time,” says McCarthy. “However, the stent procedure would be tricky due to where the blockage was located.”

McCarthy opted to have Torrance Memorial interventional cardiologist James Matchison, MD, perform his angioplasty and stent procedure. Dr. Matchison specializes in challenging interventional cardiology cases, including treating blockages in the left anterior descending artery.

Through a small incision in McCarthy’s femoral artery, Dr. Matchison guided a balloon-tipped catheter to his left anterior descending artery, cleared the blockage and placed a stent to prop the artery open. “We were able to restore 100% blood flow through Tom’s artery,” says Dr. Matchison. “Tom spent one night in the hospital and was back to normal activities within a few days.”

RETURNING TO BASELINE

Although McCarthy missed the first leg of his trip to Egypt, he was still able to visit Greece—and his athletic performance

FAL L 2 023 | PATR ON S 17

Pro g r e s s N ote s

WHAT YOU—AND YOUR FAMILY—NEED TO KNOW ABOUT FENTANYL No pill or street drug is safe.

WRITTEN BY JOHN FERRARI

I

t’s Russian roulette.” That’s how Moe Gelbart, PhD, describes street drugs. “People, especially young people, don’t believe they’re going to be the ones” to die of an overdose, says the licensed clinical psychologist, founder and executive director of Thelma McMillen Recovery Center and director of behavioral health at Torrance Memorial. “But it’s one of the top causes of death in the 18-to-45 age group.”

Experimenting with illegal or controlled substances has always been risky, and the widespread availability of powerful opioids like hydrocodone (Vicodin) and oxycodone (OxyContin, Percocet)—the drugs behind the nation’s opioid epidemic—has made it more so. But the emergence of fentanyl as a common street drug has added something new.

“Several factors make fentanyl such a serious risk to our children and grandchildren, and it’s important to understand those factors to make sure communications are consistent and everyone is on the same page,” says Dr. Gelbart. Some 50 to 100 times more potent than heroin or morphine and 75 to 150 times more powerful than oxycodone or hydrocodone, even small doses of fentanyl can flat-out kill someone.

“Most teens and adults don’t overdose from fentanyl— they are poisoned by it,” he explains. “What I mean is fentanyl is not a drug they are seeking and then take too much of. Rather, it’s hidden in other drugs, like opioids, in an attempt to increase the drug dealers’ profits. Knowing this and the lethality of the drug make it incumbent on parents and grandparents to change their mindset about ‘normal’ teenage experimentation and thinking it’s a phase that will pass. You must hammer home the message that no experimentation is safe. In addition, it’s more important than ever to get help as soon as possible when it becomes known someone is experimenting with drugs.”

Fentanyl’s potency explains its attraction to drug cartels

18 PATR ON S | FALL 2 02 3

and street-level dealers. A little bit goes a long way. Street drugs can be cut with fentanyl to boost their effects and make them more addictive, and often fentanyl is sold as a different drug entirely—anything from heroin to prescription painkillers.

Pharmaceutical fentanyl is available as a pill, patch, lozenge or tablet. Illicitly manufactured fentanyl is also available as a liquid or powder. It can be swallowed, dissolved in the cheek or under the tongue, snorted, smoked, injected—even taken as eye drops.

Drug use among teenagers is down overall, but fentanyl overdoses are up, notes Dr. Gelbart. According to the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health, fentanyl was responsible for 55% of all reported accidental alcohol and drug overdose deaths in the county in 2021. Between 2016 and 2021, fentanyl overdose deaths among children and teenagers under 18 increased more than sixfold, from 5 to 31.

The danger to children, teenagers and young adults is especially acute because not only are they more sensitive to the effects of opioids like fentanyl, they don’t have the experience or judgment to critically assess a situation or think through the potential consequences of their actions.

While the causes of teen drug use are complex, Dr. Gelbart points out two common contributing factors: peer pressure and issues such as depression and ADHD, which may be untreated or even undiagnosed. Working together, though, parents and children can minimize the risks posed by fentanyl and other drugs. The key is trust and communication.

“Talk so your kids will listen,” Dr. Gelbart says, “and listen so your kids will talk.” That’s not always easy, but it’s important. “Don’t be judgmental. Listen to your kids. Honor what they say, which does not mean you have to agree, but validate them. Recognize how they feel is correct for them from their perspective.”

Open, frequent parent-teen communication can uncover

FENTANYL OVERDOSE INFORMATION Torrance Memorial emergency medicine physician Richard Bracken, DO, sees fentanyl and other opioid overdoses on a regular basis. Cases are more common at Los Angeles General Medical Center, where he also serves as an emergency medicine physician, but “no place is immune from this crisis,” he says. “At Torrance Memorial, I’ve seen overdoses among teens and college-age students.”

SYMPTOMS

Opioids, including fentanyl, kill by lowering the body’s respiratory drive. Breathing slows; if the overdose remains untreated, it can stop entirely. The early signs of a fentanyl overdose include drowsiness, deepening into stupor, followed by diminished breathing and loss of consciousness. Breathing becomes increasingly shallow, and the individual’s skin may be white or blue due to lack of oxygen.

TREATMENT

issues that could lead to drug use, allowing a team approach to addressing problems.

“Ask your kids, ‘What are you feeling? And how can we get through it?’” Dr. Gelbart advises. “Keep your eyes and ears wide open. As parents, we need to pay attention to what teens tell us, directly and through their behavior.”

For parents and grandparents, it’s important to make sure all medications are secured and locked. “Although prescribed medications will not include fentanyl, we want to do everything to help kids avoid experimenting with pills,” Dr. Gelbart says.

“Finally, if you think someone may be experimenting, familiarize yourself with Narcan and have it readily available in your home.”

With fentanyl so prevalent in illicit drugs—even those sold as prescription medications—families need to discuss substance abuse at two levels, Dr. Gelbart says: at the broad level of drug and alcohol use and specifically about fentanyl. “With fentanyl there’s an added seriousness,” he explains. “Parents need to be much clearer and adamant on the dangers so their children do not ever take a pill from the street. That’s the most important message.” •

The treatment for opioid overdoses is simple and safe: the immediate administration of naloxone (Narcan), usually as an easy-to-deliver nasal spray.

That’s Dr. Bracken’s #1 message: If someone may be overdosing on fentanyl or another opioid, don’t wait—administer Narcan.

“It’s a very safe medication,” he says. “Any delay is going to greatly increase the risk of death from the overdose. And always call 911 after Narcan use to follow up.”

Calling 911 is important because more than one dose of Narcan may be needed, Dr. Bracken adds—and anyone who has potentially overdosed Richard Bracken, DO should be evaluated by a medical professional.

Emergency Medicine He says primary care physicians and pediatricians can prescribe Narcan as a preventive measure.

Emergency physicians can prescribe Narcan after treating a patient. “We always counsel our patients to have Narcan; it’s lifesaving.”

PREVENTION

Keeping teenagers safe from fentanyl overdoses has an added challenge, Dr. Bracken notes. “They never want to tell their parents. My best advice for parents is to talk about drug use proactively. Don’t avoid the topic, and keep the door open to discuss it. And keep Narcan on hand, even if it’s just a precaution for your children’s friends.”

Hopefully teens and parents will never have to use Narcan, but if someone does overdose, says Dr. Bracken, “that’s the most important thing—getting that medication on board as soon as possible. Use Narcan. Don’t be ashamed or concerned—use it, and then call 911.”

FAL L 2 023 | PATR ON S 19

Cli n i cal S potli g ht

A TEAM APPROACH TO CANCER CARE Torrance Memorial Tumor Boards enhance patient treatment and outcomes.

Specialists meet weekly to develop multidisciplinary recommendations for patients diagnosed with or receiving treatment for cancer—all based on the latest national guidelines and expert opinions.

WRITTEN BY LISA BUFFINGTON | PHOTOGRAPHED BY WILLIAM TOWNSEND

I

f you’ve been diagnosed with cancer, you need answers, resources, expertise and reassurance—and you need it now. Because each cancer diagnosis is as unique as your lifestyle, health history and preferences, you also need the input of many cancer care experts and access to a full range of

20 PATR ONS | FALL 2 02 3

treatment options.

At Torrance Memorial’s Hunt Cancer Institute, each cancer case presentation is discussed by a team of up to 30 cancer specialists at weekly Tumor Board meetings.

The goal: to recommend the best individual and personalized care plan

Sarina Pai, DO, breast specialty radiologist at Torrance Memorial’s Polak Breast Diagnostic Center

“I TELL MY PATIENTS WHEN THEIR CASE IS PRESENTED AT TUMOR BOARD, THEY ARE GETTING NOT ONLY A SECOND OPINION BUT FREQUENTLY THREE, FOUR OR FIVE OPINIONS ABOUT THEIR CARE. AND THE TREATMENT RECOMMENDATIONS PROVIDED ARE A CONSENSUS AGREEMENT BY ALL OF THESE DOCTORS. THIS GIVES MANY PATIENTS SIGNIFICANT PEACE OF MIND.” —Andrew Horodner, MD

based on each patient’s condition, goals and lifestyle, backed by the latest national treatment guidelines and the experience, expertise and opinions of multiple cancer specialists.

“Patients newly diagnosed with cancer are often scared and feel overwhelmed. Patients need reassurance and often want a second opinion,” says Andrew Horodner, MD, chair of the general and thoracic (lung) Tumor Boards and hematologist/ medical oncologist at the Hunt Cancer Institute. “I tell my patients when their case is presented at Tumor Board, they are getting not only a second opinion but frequently three, four or five opinions about their care.

And the treatment recommendations provided are a consensus agreement by all of these doctors. This gives many patients significant peace of mind.”

The Tumor Board isn’t just about treatment recommendations. The team discusses genetic testing and supportive care options that focus on quality of life as well as potential clinical trials available to each patient.

“The Tumor Board might sound scary, but it’s really a multidisciplinary conference bringing together all types of patient care specialists so we can discuss each patient’s case and recommend the best course of treatment,” says Sarina Pai, DO, breast specialty radiologist at Torrance Memorial’s Polak Breast Diagnostic Center.

A TEAM APPROACH TO CANCER CARE

Torrance Memorial offers Tumor Boards for patients diagnosed with breast, gastrointestinal, lung, head/ neck and neurological cancers. Each Tumor Board

includes a team of experts who play an important role in enhancing patient treatment and outcomes. Tumor Board participants include: Radiologists who present the patient’s relevant medical, imaging and biopsy history and cancer stage.

Pathologists who present the patient’s biopsy results, including tumor type and biomarkers.

Surgeons who discuss surgical treatment options.

Radiation oncologists who discuss radiation therapy options.

Medical oncologists who discuss options for chemotherapy, immunotherapy and targeted therapies.

Genetic counselors who discuss family history, genetic test results and related considerations Nurse navigators who assist patients throughout their treatment by making appointments, answering questions, connecting with support groups and more.

Plastic surgeons who discuss reconstruction options for patients who are candidates for breast surgery.

Primary care physicians who refer and follow patients and provide information on the patient’s medical and personal history.

Cedars-Sinai subspecialists who provide additional resources to support the patient’s care plan and weigh in on the diagnosis and options for treatment.

“It’s a truly dynamic process because we all bring our expertise, follow the latest care guidelines and communicate constantly—both with the patient and with our colleagues on the team,” says Rashaan Ali-Jones, MD, chair of the Breast Tumor Board at Torrance Memorial. “This collaborative, team approach provides patients with access to the most advanced care, including clinical trials, close to home.”

FAL L 2 023 | PATR ON S 21

Cli n i cal S potli g ht

PERSONALIZED TREATMENT RECOMMENDATIONS

When it comes to cancer, Torrance Memorial experts agree no two cases—and no two patients—are exactly alike. Through the Tumor Board, Torrance Memorial is able to provide a customized care plan based on the opinions of highly trained, experienced specialists.

“There is no one-size-fits-all when it comes to cancer treatment, so we review everything and make sure each patient is getting access to a multidisciplinary team of cancer experts who will provide a personalized treatment plan, assuring they will get what they need without having to go anywhere else,” says Dr. Horodner.

“Patients want to know we are developing the best possible plan to help them, and the Tumor Board is one way we can provide that reassurance—all in one state-ofthe-art facility, right in their own backyard at the Hunt Cancer Center.”

22 PATR ONS | FALL 2 02 3

The Tumor Board also provides an opportunity for clinicians to get to know their patients, allowing them to factor the patients’ preferences, lifestyles and family/ social concerns into their treatment recommendations.

“We are in communication with the patient’s primary care provider (PCP), who can virtually participate in the Tumor Board,” says Dr. Ali-Jones. “Often the PCP can provide us with even more information we can use to recommend the best treatment plan.”

Further, clinicians also discuss each patient’s need for psychosocial and nutritional support, as well as cosmetic concerns and possible treatment side effects. “Everyone’s cancer is different and every patient is different, so we get to know everything about our patients,” says Dr. Pai. “It’s not dictated care. We want our patients to have all the information they need to make informed decisions about their treatment.”

Pathologist Greg Baetge, MD, reviews slides.

LEADING-EDGE OPTIONS CLOSE TO HOME

In addition to having access to the opinions and expertise of multiple cancer specialists, Torrance Memorial patients can also participate in promising cancer clinical trials right here in Torrance through the medical center’s affiliation with Cedars-Sinai.

“Patients don’t have to travel far to participate in clinical trials, which is a tremendous benefit of our affiliation with Cedars-Sinai,” says Dr. Pai. “If we think a patient will qualify for a trial, we can discuss that option at Tumor Board and present it to the patient.”

“Cedars-Sinai subspecialists also participate in our Tumor Board meetings, which means our patients have access to cutting-edge treatments and clinical trials right at their doorstep—whether they need radiation or surgical or medical oncology care,” says Dr. Horodner.

The Hunt Cancer Institute is also nationally recognized for cancer care excellence by leading accreditation organizations and reporting bodies, including The Joint Commission, U.S. News & World Report, the Commission on Cancer, the National Accreditation Program for Breast Centers, the American College of Radiology, the Lung Cancer Alliance and the American Association of CriticalCare Nurses.

“Patients at Torrance Memorial receive the same high-level, collaborative care they would at an academic medical center, but they are able to receive their care and treatment with the comfort and convenience of being close to home,” says Dr. Ali-Jones.

“There’s no place like Torrance Memorial’s Hunt Cancer Institute for cancer care because we are all here for the right reasons and won’t settle for anything less than excellence,” says Dr. Pai. “When you come to us for cancer treatment, you can expect the most comprehensive care.” • For questions or information, contact the Hunt Cancer Institute at 310-517-7077.

Co ll abo r ati o n B r i n gs Le ad i n g - E d g e Cli n i cal Tr ial s to H u nt Can ce r Ce nte r Hunt Cancer Center offers clinical trials for various cancer types including colon, lung, prostate, head/neck and breast.

According to Swati Sikaria, MD, a hematologist-oncologist at Hunt Cancer Center, the organization sources some of the most promising clinical trials through partnerships with Cedars-Sinai, other resource networks and biotechnical companies.

“We look at the available clinical trials and choose the best ones for our patient population,” says Dr. Sikaria. For example, because breast cancer is the #1 diagnosis at Hunt Cancer Center, the team can select the breast cancer clinical trials that provide the most benefit to the South Bay community.

Over the last few years, our clinical trial offerings have rapidly expanded via our close partnership with Cedars-Sinai. We are collaborating with researchers to develop a “liquid biopsy” so that one day cancer may be detected or monitored more accurately through blood tests. We have clinical trials for patients with breast cancer at every stage of treatment—from preoperative to postoperative and for patients with incurable disease. Many novel therapies, including lung and colon cancer, are based on targeted mutations in an individual patient’s cancer genome.

Another new area of research is de-escalation. Whether in HPV+ head/neck cancer, intermediate-risk prostate cancer or HER2-positive breast cancer, we are examining if we can reduce treatment while preserving efficacy to minimize toxicities of cancer treatments for patients.

According to Dr. Sikaria, “Patients can feel confident when they seek cancer treatment at Hunt Cancer Center, they are accessing the most cutting-edge cancer therapies available right here in the South Bay.”

FAL L 2 023 | PATR ON S 23

E ve ry D o nati o n Co u nts

VISTAS FOR CHILDREN DONATION Vistas for Children, a local nonprofit organization and longtime supporter of Torrance Memorial, recently presented the Foundation with a check for $21,000 to support scholarships for the teen program at the Thelma McMillen Recovery Center. The center’s programs at Torrance Memorial have been saving lives and supporting recovery for 30 years.

L to R: Donnie Watson, PhD, and Moe Gelbart, PhD, (Thelma McMillen Recovery Center), Nadia Elgrably (Vistas) and Laura Schenasi (Torrance Memorial Foundation)

NOVAS CLASS OF 2023 RECOGNIZED FOR SERVICE The Luminaries and Novas of Torrance Memorial Medical Center are nonprofit volunteer groups founded in 1990 to provide services and financial donations to the hospital. To date they have donated more than $540,000 to support many important hospital projects. This year they presented the Foundation with a check for $12,000.

Congratulations to the 19 graduating high school seniors from the Novas of Torrance Memorial Medical Center. Collectively they contributed over 7,800 service hours to support patients and staff, particularly through the pandemic.

Since September 2020, they have been incredibly good to health care workers by treating them to thousands of baked good items along with care packages for staff and patients.

SQUISHMALLOWS AND BARBIES FOR PEDIATRICS Mychal’s Learning Place, an organization that supports, trains and provides opportunities for youth and young adults with developmental disabilities, recently donated 72 Squishmallows, 18 Barbies and a few other toys for pediatric patients in the unit and in the emergency department. These special Squishmallows are inspired by brands like Twizzlers, Hershey Kisses and Dracula to bring plush, whimsical characters to life for children.

L to R, back: Gregory Monzon, Griffin Hur, Omar Eltawil, Kyle Shigekawa, Josh Chen, Josh Ikegami, Ryan Pang; Middle: Emi Kobayashi, Kayla Mar, Jenna Chow, Charlotte Chiang, Jadyn Lee, Abigail Nho, Vivian Chan. Front: Meghan Ke Not Pictured: Nicholas Cha, Helena Kim, Johnathan Sack, Madison Woodward.

PHOTOGRAPHED BY DEBORAH LAM

24 PATR ONS | FALL 2 02 3

Gina Sievert, Child Life Specialist

BRAINSTORM PRODUCTIONS DONATES BOOKS TO PEDIATRICS Torrance Memorial’s pediatric department received a generous donation of children’s books from Brainstorm Productions, a program established by Center for Learning Unlimited (CLU). CLU serves K–12 students with complex learning challenges. Graduates of CLU’s animation career training program—most of whom are on the autism spectrum—apply and are hired at Brainstorm Productions as paid employees. They create videos and art, along with illustrating books like those donated to Torrance Memorial: Willow’s Tale: A Little Black Cat Goes Stargazing by Linda Malik and The Secret Life of Sheba by Jane Kusch.

AFFIRMATION JARS FOR EATING DISORDER PATIENTS Gwyneth Leys, a member of all-girls Boy Scout Troop 310G in Torrance, was inspired to complete her service project to benefit patients in the eating disorders medical unit at Torrance Memorial. To contribute to the affirmation jar program supported by psychologist Sarah Wohn and child life specialist Gina Sievert, Gwyneth donated two dozen jar kits.

The kits include the supplies for patients to decorate their individual jar upon admission. During their stay, staff drop written positive affirmations in the jar, which is returned to them at discharge to continue motivating them through their recovery.

AN EVENING OF COMEDY Willow’s Tale crew Instructor Rachel Kopito, Josua Jo, Noemi Hernandez, Kobe Aceves, instructor Andrew Haldeman, Ramon Gonzales

The Secret Life of Sheba crew Back: George Manukyan, Michael Miro, Lawren Cruz, Haileigh Tenney Seated: Tori Boyd, Jade Boyd

Torrance Memorial staff, physicians and volunteers filled the Hoffman Health Conference Center on June 22 for a free evening of entertainment and laughter, sponsored by Mike Lacey, owner of Hermosa Beach’s The Comedy & Magic Club. Mike acknowledged and showed his appreciation for the dedicated, hardworking Torrance Memorial employees with this special evening with comedians and a magician.

PHOTOGRAPHED BY DEIDRE DAVIDSON

FAL L 2 023 | PATR ON S 25

26 PATR ONS | FALL 2 02 3

LEACH OF LEGEND It’s hard to imagine Torrance Memorial Medical Center without Craig Leach at the helm.

Faithful, fearless and humble, for nearly 40 years he’s charted the course, set the pace and shaped the culture of the South Bay’s finest hospital. As this beloved CEO heads for the exit, a chorus of well-wishers and community stakeholders reflect on his legacy in gratitude.

WRITTEN BY DIANE KRIEGER PHOTOGRAPHED BY MICHAEL NEVEUX

M

ore by serendipity than by design, Craig Leach turned out to be the captain Torrance Memorial needed to safely navigate an era of health care headwinds. Skillfully dodging regulatory icebergs, economic cyclones and info-tech minefields, this uniquely gifted and committed hospital commander ends his nearly 40-year voyage with unimagined treasure in the cargo hold.

October 31 is Leach’s official last day as CEO. High on the list of his accomplishments (though Leach refuses to take credit) is the monumental $350 million in philanthropy accumulated on his watch by the Torrance Memorial Foundation.

“I don’t consider myself a great fundraiser,” Leach says with characteristic modesty. “The fundraising that’s gone on here has been 1% me and 99% Laura Schenasi’s team, the foundation board and community generosity. I’m just a bit player in that whole process.”

Schenasi begs to differ. “Craig is a big, big part of fundraising because he creates the hospital people want to support,” says the longtime executive vice president of the foundation.

FAL L 2 023 | PATR ON S 27

“MY WIFE AND I CALL HIM THE GOAT—THE GREATEST-OFALL-TIME CEO. I CAN’T SAY ENOUGH GOOD THINGS ABOUT CRAIG. AND USUALLY YOU DON’T HEAR THAT FROM A PHYSICIAN ABOUT AN ADMINISTRATOR.” —Mark Lurie, MD

FEELS LIKE FAMILY

BOLD MOVES

Indeed, the “feels-like-family” culture that defines Torrance Memorial is at the root of the hospital’s excellence. And Leach is the compass for that signature culture.

“He’s a rare combination: modest, generous and sincere. He has the highest character, the highest integrity, and he sets a great example for others,” says Greg Geiger, chair of the board of trustees at Torrance Memorial and a principal at Westport Capital Partners.

“Craig’s leadership has made everybody better. The doctors are better, the administration is better. As a team, we’re all better,” says oncologist David Chan, MD, who worked closely with Leach in developing Torrance Memorial’s world-class cancer program.

“Craig cares so much!” says physical therapist Tami Ramsey, a hospital staffer for 26 years. “He is passionate about Torrance Memorial. He’s devoted. He’s authentic. He treats us like family.

He’s just a superior human being. And his dedication to excellence of care trickles down. I am so grateful to be part of the Torrance Memorial culture Craig has cultivated.”

At the time, Torrance Memorial had roughly 1,000 employees.

The campus was just three buildings. After skating on thin ice in the 1970s, the hospital’s books were balanced by the ’80s but looked shaky again when the California legislature mandated costly seismic upgrades for hospitals following the 1994 Northridge earthquake.

The whole medical marketplace was reinventing itself. Private physicians—overwhelmed by computerized billing, insurance complexity and government regulations—were running for cover under big-tent health care systems. Struggling small hospitals were being snapped up by large ones. The South Bay population was growing, and a new generation of patients wanted ambulatory services in their local communities.

Leach advocated for bold moves, laying the foundation for Torrance Memorial’s present-day stability and excellence. He was promoted to senior vice president in 1996, then to chief operating officer in 2001 and president/CEO in 2005.

The digital revolution in health care, the 2008 financial crisis, the advent of the Affordable Care Act and a once-in-a-century deadly pandemic all happened on his watch. Yet Leach leaves behind a record of stunning expansion and surging excellence.

The data points are eye-popping: a five-fold increase in staff; the doubling of hospital-owned land; two new patient towers on the main campus and several community-based ambulatory care centers sprinkled across the South Bay; the aforementioned $350 million in philanthropy; and a trailblazing partnership with CedarsSinai Health System.

“He’s the Warren Buffett of hospital administration,” says retired cardiologist and current Torrance Memorial Foundation board chair Mark Lurie, MD. “My wife and I call him the GOAT— the greatest-of-all-time CEO. I can’t say enough good things about Craig. And usually you don’t hear that from a physician about an administrator.”

THE EARLY DAYS

A native son of the South Bay, Leach grew up in the Hollywood Riviera and attended St. Lawrence Martyr School, then Bishop Montgomery High School. His dad, Dave, was a science teacher at Redondo Beach High School. His mom, June, stayed home with their five kids.

When Leach joined Torrance Memorial in 1984, he was only 28 years old. A CPA with an accounting degree from Loyola Marymount University, he’d gone to work for Deloitte in Downtown Los Angeles. By some good fortune, he was asked as a rookie to audit several hospital clients. Intrigued, Leach wanted to dig deeper, so he accepted a comptroller job with Centinela Hospital in Inglewood. Three years later, he moved to Torrance Memorial as director of finance.

And never left.

28 PATR ONS | FALL 2 02 3

A FRIEND TO ALL

The Leach Family Front, L to R: Mackenzie, Ashlyn, Emmy, Paul, Sophia, Ryder, Brynlee, Daniel Back: Nina, Tyler, Taryn, David, Judy, Craig, Kristen

When Lurie began his 38-year career at Torrance Memorial, his brother-in-law, a seasoned hospital physician, warned him to steer clear of administrators. Lurie blithely ignored the advice, shouldering a series of program directorships in cardiology, culminating in the role of hospital chief of staff. Physicians and administrators don’t have to be adversaries, Lurie discovered—at least not at Torrance Memorial.

“Craig is on the side of the doctors and the nurses. He never steps in your way or tries to stop you. He’s your partner, and he has your back,” says Lurie, who retired from practice in 2019 and stepped down earlier this year from the medical directorship of the Lundquist Lurie Cardiovascular Institute. He currently is in his 12th year as foundation president.

Building confidence and loyalty has been a key factor in Leach’s success as a leader. He earned the

trust of hospital stakeholders—from groundskeepers and cafeteria workers to physicians and nurses to volunteers and major donors—by engaging with them honestly, respectfully and warmly as individuals.

His door is always open to anyone who knocks.

He returns phone calls and responds to emails promptly. He walks the hospital floors at least two mornings a week, greeting everyone by name—an amazing feat given Torrance Memorial’s 5,000-strong workforce. The hospital is currently the city’s largest private employer.

“He’s just very human, and he makes people feel good about themselves,” says philanthropist Melanie Lundquist, who together with her husband, Richard, has invested $100 million in Torrance Memorial since 2005. “Craig’s presence is always felt by the employees. They love working there.”

She speaks from personal knowledge, having

FAL L 2 023 | PATR ON S 29

worked a Thursday volunteer shift at the hospital’s front desk from 1985 to 1996. Feeling a connection with Torrance Memorial, Lundquist’s volunteerism flowered into philanthropy. “I knew Torrance Memorial was a good place,” she says. “I just knew that’s where I wanted to be.”

Leach’s sincerity is a big part of that connection.

“Craig really sees you,” says philanthropist Priscilla Hunt, also a major donor to Torrance Memorial.

“Some people, when they’re talking to you, at the same time they’re looking around. But when Craig is talking to you, it’s eye-to-eye, one-on-one.”

Torrance YMCA president Steve McAller recalls his first tour of the hospital with Leach as a guide.

“It wasn’t just a tour. It was like he was telling me: ‘Welcome to my home. Welcome to my neighborhood.’ Craig knew every single person and had a genuine relationship with each one of them.

He takes great pride in the community, and the pride goes both ways.”

A HUMBLE UNICORN

Leach’s spouse confirms this. “There is nothing fake about Craig. Nothing. He’s a genuine, humble person. A unicorn,” says Judy Leach, his wife of 45 years. A retired nurse, she worked under cardiology director Ben Rosin, MD, for many years in the basement of the old tower and would regularly grab lunch with her husband at the cafeteria.

Close friends since high school, their relationship blossomed into romance during college, and they were married on Leach’s 23rd birthday. While Leach poured his lifeblood into the hospital, he always put his family first. “I never felt I was married to Torrance Memorial,” Judy says.

In the early years, she worked a 12-hour nursing shift on Saturdays, which left Craig in charge of David, Paul and Daniel—their three young sons. As the boys grew older, Leach made time to coach each of their soccer and baseball teams, seldom missing a game. Now grown, the Leach boys—together with their wives Kristen, Nina and Taryn—have given their parents seven (soon to be nine) beautiful grandchildren. All live in the South Bay. Judy says looking back, she never anticipated her husband’s ascending to CEO. “It’s a tough position, but Craig made it seem so easy. He rarely came home from work in a bad mood and seldom talked about it.”

30 PATR ON S | FALL 2 02 3

As Judy reminisces, her voice catches. She pauses to bring her emotions under control. “I’m not usually like this,” she says. “Craig, by the way, cries at everything.”

Leach admits to this weakness. Early in the pandemic, strong emotions kept taking him by surprise as the crisis teams, headed by chief medical officer John McNamara, MD, and chief nursing officer Mary Wright, RN, pivoted day by day, sometimes hour by hour.

“It was a very special time in terms of people coming together and figuring out how to make this place work for the difficult task in front of us,” Leach says.

Honda Evening Under the Stars is one of many fundraising events Craig and Judy Leach have attended over the years.

“STABILITY HELPS BREED CULTURE AND A SHARED VISION FOR THE FUTURE. IF YOU HAVE LOTS OF PEOPLE REINVENTING THE WHEEL EVERY COUPLE OF YEARS, IT’S HARD TO CREATE A VISION.” —CEO Craig Leach

A BOLD VISION

The emotional pinnacle in Leach’s professional life was the opening of the Lundquist Tower. He vividly recalls watching through misty eyes as the first patient was wheeled from the old tower to the new one. The faces of “so many good people” who had labored for years to make it happen showed unmistakable pride.

The Lundquist Tower came in early and under budget. Good timing and shrewd planning had saved about $30 million when interest and bond rates sank in the 2008 financial crisis and construction costs responded to the bear market.

Leach has been accused of prescience in other bold moves he’s made over the years—for example, building out a sophisticated Torrance Memorial physician enterprise and affiliating with CedarsSinai to expand access to more services for the South Bay. Leach shrugs off such foresight as a function of having been around long enough to know bone-deep what might be best for the hospital.

The high turnover generally seen in health care administration is a major flaw in the system, he believes. “Stability helps breed culture and a shared vision for the future,” he says. “If you have lots of people reinventing the wheel every couple of years, it’s hard to create a vision.”

Leach’s vision begins with a fierce loyalty to Torrance Memorial.

As an up-and-coming executive of a booming regional hospital, he could easily have moved up and out.

“Craig was highly recruitable,” says Sally Eberhard, a retired Torrance Memorial executive whose career overlapped with Leach’s for 35 years. “But it was always clear Craig wasn’t going anywhere. He grew up in this community and was devoting his career to Torrance Memorial. His values were to stay committed to building the best hospital system he could imagine for the South Bay.” A SMOOTH TRANSITION

Even as he approaches retirement, Leach is leaving nothing to chance. He set the stage for a smooth transition in 2021 when he recruited and onboarded his chosen successor, Keith Hobbs.

“My retirement date was known from the day Keith got here,” Leach says. “I thought it would be great for him to have two years to really get to know the people, fit into the culture of the organization and then hopefully be the person who takes over.”

As CEO of the USC-affiliated Verdugo Hills Hospital, Hobbs already had five years of leadership experience running a medical center as part of a larger health system. Hired as executive vice president, Hobbs was promoted to president this past February and will step into the CEO role in November.

Asked what advice Leach would give his successor, he says: “Build on Torrance Memorial’s culture of being compassionate like family; keep up the positive relationship with doctors; and stay engaged with your exceptional management team and staff. I know Keith can do that, and I think he’ll be very successful.”

Asked to sum up his legacy, Leach highlights a few landmark achievements: spearheading the Cedars-Sinai affiliation; building the Lundquist Tower; and creating the Torrance Memorial physician enterprise system. The build-out of the Hunt Cancer Center and the El Segundo medical facility also rate high on the list.

“Craig has built a formidable organization,” says Thomas M. Priselac, president and CEO of Cedars-Sinai Health System. The two men are longtime friends who served for decades on the boards of the California Hospital Association and the Hospital Association of Southern California. Their mutual respect and trust eased the way for the innovative affiliation structure that will help ensure Torrance Memorial is around 100 years from now.

Some of the seeds Leach planted have yet to germinate. Back in 2008 when the “for sale” sign went up at the old Honeywell turbocharger plant, Leach jumped at the chance to acquire 16 acres of precious hospital-adjacent property. With the Lundquist Tower underway, it was too soon to build there.

So Leach bulldozed the old factory and paved it for use as overflow parking. (Free parking was something Torrance Memorial had promised to the city years before, and Leach intends to honor that promise.) But in the long term, those 16 acres will be the site for another major hospital expansion.

Then last year, when the medical buildings at 3400 and 3440 Lomita Boulevard came on the market, Leach encouraged Priselac to purchase them. That’s another 7 acres of property now owned by a sister institution.

“I don’t know any hospital in L.A. County that has 23 acres of adjacent property to develop for the next century,” says Leach. “And we do! We are in good shape to grow and serve this community for the next 100 years.” •

FAL L 2 023 | PATR ON S 31

Craig Leach, Melanie Lundquist and Richard Lundquist share a friendship based on trust, respect and making a difference in human lives.

A Ph i l anth ro pi st ’s E ye Vi e w Laura Schenasi recently took a call from a stranger who, it turned out, wanted to donate $1.5 million. “I’d never met the man before,” says the hospital’s chief fundraiser.

The episode illustrates how Torrance Memorial’s authentic, feelslike-family culture—combined with excellent care—is a powerful driver of philanthropy. A year earlier, that donor had arrived at the ED in critical condition. Within minutes, he was diagnosed with congestive heart failure and soon thereafter rushed into emergency surgery for a transcatheter aortic valve replacement.

As he recovered, passing through the intensive care and progressive care departments, a desire to support the hospital welled up. If it weren’t for Torrance Memorial, he later told Schenasi, he would have died.

“This happens over and over again,” says retiring CEO Craig Leach. “People come to the emergency department, receive phenomenal care, and then a light bulb goes on. The doctors and the nurses here at the hospital are part of our philanthropy process without even knowing it.”

Asked why people support Torrance Memorial, Schenasi says

32 PATR ON S | FALL 2 02 3

donors invariably tell her: “It’s the way your staff took care of us.”

Schenasi shares, “Sometimes it’s end-of-life care. We can’t save everybody’s life. But whatever the outcome, families realize the kindness and strategic thinking that go into caring for our patients, and they are grateful.”

Such windfall gifts haven’t led to wastefulness or complacency under Leach’s stewardship. “People want to support fiscally well-managed organizations,” Schenasi says, “and Craig runs a lean, mean working machine.”

Melanie and Richard Lundquist know that firsthand. They have donated about $100 million since 2005, and “we’re not done with Torrance Memorial yet,” say the Lundquists, who are Giving Pledge signatories and have appeared three times on “The Philanthropy 50,” an annual list published by the Chronicle of Philanthropy that names America’s top 50 most generous philanthropists.

“Because of Craig and his team, we have been able to realize the philanthropist’s dream of being able to make a big, big, big, big difference in human lives,” says Melanie Lundquist.

All their gifts to Torrance Memorial have been unsolicited, but the Lundquists are very hands-on donors who ask to be kept in the

loop. “Philanthropists can make mistakes, and we’ve made a few,” Melanie Lundquist says. “You want to find organizations and people who will be incredibly good stewards of your philanthropic dollars and get the most impact for your investment. And that’s exactly what Craig has been able to do. We’re going to miss him tremendously.”

Lundquist appreciates how Leach always responds to her questions and concerns with hard data, not airy reassurances. “He makes us a partner. Torrance Memorial earned our trust, and we earned their trust too. It’s a two-way street.”

She adds, with a laugh: “They’re always busy thanking us, but we should be thanking them— because without them, we’d just be throwing our dollars at the wall to see what sticks.”

“With Craig, you don’t have to worry about, ‘Hey, where’s my money going?’ I know that everything I donate is 100% going to a hospital program and what they intend to do with it,” says philanthropist Priscilla Hunt. Her initial $34 million gift helped fund the renovation and renamed the North Patient Tower, now the Donald and Priscilla Hunt Tower.

The Hunt Radiation Oncology Center followed, and in 2019 the Hunt Cancer Center had its ribbon cutting.

Hunt had personal reasons for supporting the hospital. Her husband Donald, then 96, received superb end-of-life care in 2017. So had her sister, Dolores. Terminally ill with cancer, she’d been given only weeks to live. It was April, and Dolores desperately wanted to see her first grandchild, due in June.

Oncologists at another hospital had refused further treatment as pointless. So the Hunt family consulted oncologist Hugo Hool, MD, at Torrance Memorial. “He told us: ‘I’m not God, but I will try my very best,’” Hunt recalls. With aggressive chemotherapy, Dolores lived to see not only her granddaughter’s birth but the child’s 1st birthday.

Hunt witnessed another life-saving miracle when she referred a receptionist in her company to Torrance Memorial. The young woman had been diagnosed with stage 4 cancer. She weighed just 86 pounds and was bracing for death. That was seven years ago, and she still works at Hunt Enterprises.

“The Hunt Cancer Center does so much good,” says its benefactor, and she lays much of the credit at Leach’s door. •

Craig Leach and Priscilla Hunt have learned from each other over the years and enjoy a close friendship that includes a few twirls on the dance floor at the Holiday Festival Gala year after year.

E xit Pl an Craig Leach officially retires on Halloween. Asked what he’ll do the morning after, he says: “I’ll probably go down for a swim after sleeping in late, then come home and have my toast and peanut butter with a glass of milk”—his breakfast routine since early childhood.

He looks forward to spending more time with friends, playing golf and exercising to keep in shape. He’ll also stay involved with Torrance Memorial, continuing to serve on the board of trustees, which should bring him on campus regularly.

He’ll remain on the Torrance YMCA board too. “I love that organization.

They have a beautiful mission,” Leach says. He’s on the lookout for new volunteer opportunities—“maybe actually get my hands dirty,” he says.

The Leaches have ambitious travel plans. Last summer, they thoroughly enjoyed a river cruise from Normandy to Switzerland, and more adventures loom on the horizon. “I’d like to do an Israel trip, and I’d like to go to Spain and Portugal,” he says. “I want to explore places in the United States I’ve never visited, like Yellowstone and the Tetons. Judy is a big walker. Anything that involves hiking or walking, she would do in a heartbeat.”

Spending quality time with his grandchildren is high on Leach’s postretirement to-do list. “I would love to pick them up at school or take them to the beach while they’re still young enough to like having me around,” he says, smiling. •

FAL L 2 023 | PATR ON S 33

, g i a r C r Dea Edited by Julie Taylor

We asked friends, colleagues and employees to share their sentiments, gratitude and well wishes with CEO Craig Leach as he embarks on his journey into retirement. His impact on Torrance Memorial Medical Center and the legacy of leadership he leaves behind will long be remembered.

Cheers to a well-deserved rest, mornings with peanut butter toast, good health and a future filled with endless possibilities.

Congratulations, Craig! Your dedication for 40 years at Torrance Memorial is truly remarkable. Your unwavering commitment to excellence and compassion has touched countless lives. Thank you for making a difference and investing your time in me personally! Wishing you a well-deserved retirement filled with joy and fulfillment.

—Keith Hobbs, president, Torrance Memorial

For more than 40 years we have been friends who negotiated, and I always felt we were sitting on the same side of the table. I remember when it took us less than one minute to negotiate an important contract and another negotiation was finalized on a paper napkin. I’ve always felt we thought alike, and the only difference was I might forget some of the details … but you never did and still don’t. Congratulations, my friend.

—Mitch Parver, MD

Decisive, compassionate, tireless, visionary and strategic, Craig’s the GOAT of CEOs. He’s got a mind like a computer and a heart as big as the Lundquist Tower. His leadership has made Torrance Memorial a top medical center because he’s tops himself. He’s leaving us all saying, “What a guy!” ­—Mark Lurie, MD, retired codirector, Lundquist Lurie Cardiovascular Institute

34 PATR ONS | FALL 2 02 3

There are few people I both revere and like as much as Craig Leach! Craig is a world-class health care leader and a stellar human—equally warm, gracious and wickedly smart. Thank you, Craig, for being a galvanizing leader, inspiration and friend.

With gratitude and admiration.

—Heidi Hoffman, MD

Thank you for creating an incredible place where physicians can practice world-class care. After 40 years of wisdom and guidance, what are we going to do? Alas, the anxiety of separation will turn into separation anxiety, but you have empowered us with the ability to carry on your vision.

—Vinh Cam, MD

I am grateful for your superpower and the primacy you place on non-zero-sum solutions for the medical staff and the hospital, transforming Torrance Memorial into a worldclass medical center. Your wisdom, integrity and humility have served as an inspiration for countless physicians and staff. Thank you for the confidence you’ve had in me.

—Zachary Gray, MD, vice president, medical staff affairs

Your impact on our hospital is immeasurable. Your considerable management skills, and even more importantly your honorable character and admirable values, are reflected throughout the hospital. It has been an honor to work with you.

We wish you much happiness and excellent health in your retirement!

—Jeanette Oka, MD, and Patrick Donley, MD

1983 North Wing opens.

1984 Craig joins Torrance Memorial as director of the finance department. He reports to Ray Rahn, senior vice president of finance at the time. (Ray was then promoted to COO in 1992 and remained executive vice president/COO until his retirement in 2001.)

1980 1984 First Festival of the Trees is held.

2012 Torrance Memorial Specialty Center opens.

1993 Torrance Memorial becomes a “Top 100 Hospital” for the first time.

1996 Craig becomes senior vice president of finance.

1994 TCU (Transitional Care Unit) opens.

1997 Torrance Memorial goes fully digitized with implementation of Cerner.

1990 1986 Torrance Memorial’s Breast Diagnostic Center opens.

2014 Torrance Memorial officially takes on the name Torrance Memorial Health System.

1986 Hoffman Health Conference Center is inaugurated.

2018 Cedars-Sinai affiliation is established.

1993 Torrance Memorial purchases the building (then owned by Hughes Aircraft) at 3275 Skypark Drive, which eventually became the Polak Imaging and Breast Diagnostic Center.

2019 Hunt Cancer Center opens.

1996 Carson medical offices open (expanding ambulatory care options).

1997 Manhattan Beach medical offices open (further expanding ambulatory care options).

2021 Torrance Memorial is now one of the largest four hospitals in L.A. County.

2023 Craig announces retirement will be October 31.

2020 2014 Lundquist Tower opens.

2014 New stateof-the-art Radiation/ Oncology Center opens.

2017 Lundquist Neuroscience Institute and Lundquist Orthopedic Institute are initiated.

2019 Torrance Memorial receives first-time full Comprehensive Stroke Center accreditation.

2020 Leads Torrance Memorial through the unprecedented COVID-19 pandemic.

2022 El Segundo Multispecialty Building & Urgent Care opens.

FAL L 2 023 | PATR ON S 35

Biplane imaging is one of the most advanced interventional medical imaging technologies.

ADVANCED IMAGING CHANGES THE WORLD OF MEDICINE 36 PATR ONS | FALL 2 02 3

1 On August 14, Patricia and Gerald Turpanjian and their family previewed the new Interventional Radiology (IR) suite in the Torrance Memorial Lundquist Tower.

The Turpanjian’s $5.1 million gift supported the build-out of this new suite, which has significantly expanded Torrance Memorial’s IR infrastructure and services. Now equipped with the most advanced technology, George So, MD, demonstrated the biplane imaging technology, which creates a road map for treating the precise location of the disease. With much appreciation for their generosity, members of the IR team, hospital administration and the Turpanjian family enjoyed a reception following the demonstration. •

2

IMPACT ON THE FUTURE

3

Biplane imaging is one of the most advanced interventional medical imaging technologies.

Hospitals make a considerable investment when developing and renovating an IR suite. The hard costs are extensive, involving an expenditure of $2.3 million or more. These must be added to the cost of imaging equipment, which can range from $2 million to $3.5 million depending on the features desired.

Identifying the need and scope of the project is top priority. Involved in the planning process are the interventional radiologists and endovascular neurosurgeons who help define the types of space, equipment and processes needed to perform them.

Costs IR biplane advanced technology and equipment........................................... $3.1 million IR suite design and construction............................................................................................. $1.4 million IT infrastructure: computer systems,

4

1.

2.

3.

ultrasound equipment and digital monitors.............................................................. $.5 million Service contract (first year).................................................................................................................. $.1 million

4.

L to R: Daniel Muncherian, Phillip Nazarian, Michael Turpanjian, Emily Ohanian, Gregory Turpanjian, Peter Turpanjian Seated: Patricia Turpanjian, Gerald Turpanjian Daniel Muncherian, Lori Muncherian, Jack Muncherian L to R: Khalid Sharif, George So, MD, Richard Krauthamer, MD, Craig Leach, Judith Gassner, Keith Hobbs, Derek Berz, William Ogan Seated: Gerald Turpanjian, Patricia Turpanjian The Turpanjian family

TOTAL: $5.1M

FAL L 2 023 | PATR ON S 37

Timme and Kurt Gunderlock share a spirit of generosity that is the foundation for their service to the hospital and the community.

K

urt and Timme Gunderlock make tangible changes in the world. They build and design beautiful homes, created a tight-knit family, cultivated a wide circle of friends and nurture the causes meaningful to them. Their life together is all about doing, working, building and making everything they touch better.

It’s hard to say which of the Gunderlocks is more committed to Torrance Memorial Medical Center, since they work together to support the hospital. Kurt says he steps up for anything important to his wife; Timme says Kurt promotes the hospital whenever he has a chance but gives her all the credit.

BUILDING A LIFE TOGETHER

Am bas sad o r s Co r n e r

THE STRUCTURE OF A HAPPY LIFE For Kurt and Timme Gunderlock, supporting Torrance Memorial Medical Center is about building up their community.

WRITTEN BY MELISSA BEAN STERZICK | PHOTOGRAPHED BY PHILICIA ENDELMAN

38 PATR ONS | FALL 2 02 3

Kurt and Timme are industrious people.

They are semiretired, but neither can turn down a job. Timme grew up in Manhattan Beach and received her bachelor’s degree in art history from California State University, Long Beach. She later earned two master’s degrees from UCLA—one in art history and the other in interior design.

In 1978, a real estate developer hired her to create interior design concepts for a large tract of homes, and she established her company, Associated Design Services, which later became Timme G. Designs. Her work as a designer led her to an affiliation with Gunderlock Construction in 1982.

“It’s easy to work. People will say to me, ‘How do you keep it all straight?’

I don’t know, I just do it. Women are multidimensional. We can throw our kids

in the car, be going to a soccer game and be writing a proposal while we wait,” Timme says. “I think I’m retired, but if you say so to my girlfriends, they laugh and say, ‘Oh yeah, Timme’s retired, but she’s working on three houses.’”

Kurt, a former Marine, is a general contractor and head of Gunderlock Construction. During his career he’s built more than 100 custom homes, plus multiunit projects, commercial buildings and countless remodels of all sizes. His current retirement schedule includes building a home for his son, who lives in Anaheim. He’s also building a 12,000-square-foot custom home for a client, located on the last open parcel in Rolling Hills Estates.

Kurt and Timme married in 1989, and both already had a son and a daughter.

Timme says they were like “The Brady Bunch.” Their blended family is based in Southern California and now includes eight grandchildren, who produce enormous amounts of joy and a heavy schedule of cherished events.

The Gunderlocks travel frequently.

Timme reads two books a month. Kurt does Pilates. Golf is a regular activity for the couple, and they are active members of Rolling Hills Country Club. Kurt was on the club’s building committee for many years, consulting on the construction phases there including the grounds and clubhouse.

“The treatment I received at Torrance Memorial was amazing. My sister would be alive today, had she received the great treatments available now. My doctor, Dr. Cynthia Williams, stayed with me when I had my surgery and helped me be prepared for how it would go. This is the personalized, compassionate care you get from being part of Torrance Memorial,” she says.

The same year she was treated for breast cancer, a friend invited Timme to a Torrance Memorial Ambassadors luncheon.

She was inspired by the positive energy she felt among its members. She saw the importance of offering financial support to crucial service lines for the hospital including neurology, orthopedics, and spine, cancer and cardiovascular diseases. Besides the enthusiastic camaraderie, Timme could see the group’s members understood the value of supporting the vital programs patients need.

“I always say you need to be involved in your community. Being involved in the hospital is hugely important because everyone who lives here benefits from having a great hospital like Torrance Memorial,” she says.

Timme continues to point her laser focus toward the hospital because her efforts are rewarded in a dozen ways, including her friendships, her own health and her desire to serve the community. She says social events aren’t Kurt’s natural habitat, but once he’s

there, he’s the hospital’s biggest advocate.

Kurt has a history of using his time for the benefit of others including years of coaching youth baseball, serving as a Marine, teaching science and coaching at Aviation and Mira Costa high schools, and building homes as a volunteer in Brazil, Ecuador, Colombia and Turkey.

“He’s a quiet guy, a man of few words, but when he speaks, everybody listens because he’s smart and really knowledgeable,” Timme says.

Since 1980, Kurt has spent most of his life constructing buildings—committing his labor to providing the most beautiful and useful homes and businesses for his clients.

His contributions to the hospital have a similar form. He enjoys watching buildings go up on the hospital campus. The new emergency department is the next project he’s excited to see take shape.

“When we give donations to the hospital, we know it’s going directly to help someone. We know what we’ve given is going directly to the good,” Kurt says.

Torrance Memorial benefits equally from the abilities and dedication of both members of this steadfast partnership.

Kurt and Timme are people of action and purpose who devote their time and means to keeping their loved ones close, their friendships strong and their community healthy. Their generosity toward each other is the foundation for their service to the hospital and to the world around them. •

GIVING TO THEIR FAMILY, FRIENDS AND COMMUNITY

Timme had reason to feel drawn to becoming a member of Torrance Memorial Ambassadors, an annual giving support group. She gave birth to her son there in 1978 and was impressed by the care she received. In 2014, Timme was diagnosed with breast cancer and treated at Torrance Memorial. It was a heartbreaking experience because she had watched her mother and aunt go through the disease, and she lost her sister Terre to breast cancer in 1988.

Timme and Kurt Gunderlock and their beloved cockapoo, Maxwell FAL L 2 023 | PATR ON S 39

F utu r e Fo cu s

A CULTURED & GIVING LIFE

C

WRITTEN BY LAURA ROE STEVENS

ultured, positive, educated, devoted and kind are words to describe Aida B. Hillway, who passed in January 2021 at age 101. Some might say Aida was a trailblazer, as she earned a psychology degree from Harvard University—at a time when few women were admitted. The Italian American met her lifelong love Charles (Chuck) Hillway when both were students at the University of Oregon.

They married in 1943 before Chuck left to serve in England during WWII, “to help the Allies identify Nazi airplanes,” explains Richard Hillway, age 80, who is Aida’s nephew. Richard is also a tennis historian and the author of The Birth of Lawn Tennis.

Richard recounts a favorite old family lore with a grin: “Chuck’s mom pulled him aside and said, ‘Aida is very popular and might not be single when you come back,’ so Chuck proposed before leaving to serve in WWII.” Upon his return, the two purchased land in Rolling Hills and built their dream home in 1951, where they lived their entire lives. Chuck was a businessman who retired early, according to Richard. Aida was the head of UCLA’s Counseling Center, where she provided emotional support to athletes, students, faculty and staff. It was a perfect career choice.

“She was a delightful, insightful person. You could talk with her about anything,” says Richard.

“She helped so many students and faculty. She also loved to support musicians.”

When Richard’s father, Dr. Tyus Hillway, founder of the Herman Melville Society, died of esophageal cancer in 1988, he became closer to his aunt and uncle. And he loved his lengthy conversations with Aida, which continued until her final days.

“I spoke with her every day, and we’d talk for hours! All our interests were the same. She loved it when I’d play her favorite opera over the phone.

Aida and Chuck became my second parents. I loved them dearly,” says Richard.

40 PATR ON S | FALL 2 02 3

LEAVING A LEGACY THROUGH A RESIDUAL BENEFICIARY GIFT

Torrance Memorial Medical Center first benefited from Aida’s generosity in October 2016 when she donated $200,000 to name a patient room in memory of her husband. In 2019, Aida updated her estate plan to designate Torrance Memorial as a 70% residual beneficiary. (After specific gifts were made, 70% of the remainder of Aida’s trust would be given to Torrance Memorial.)

Torrance Memorial recently learned that $3.86 million from Aida’s estate was allocated to the hospital! This generous gift will help with a needed expansion of the Torrance Memorial emergency department (ED), says Sandy VandenBerge, director of planned giving for Torrance Memorial Foundation.

“Her gift is earmarked for our $50 million ED expansion project. We need more space to accommodate the community in a timely manner,” Sandy explains. “Last year we saw 101,000 patients in our current space that hasn’t expanded in 12 years. We anticipate seeing 130,000 patients (yearly) within 10 years.”

A GENEROUS HEART

Aida’s mother was born in a small Italian Alpine village near the Austrian border. She moved to America as a teen and spoke only in Italian to Aida, who was grateful for her life in California, says Richard, who adds she also loved her Italian heritage.

“She loved talking about Galileo and listening to opera singers like Enrico Caruso. She and Chuck were members of the Los Angeles Opera. They loved Italian food and traveled to Italy. They both loved Tony Bennett, who was also Italian and a lover of art,” says Richard with a laugh.

Her other loves? Walking in Rolling Hills, her dogs Gucci and Coco, and talking with dear friends over wonderful meals. “She loved good food, laughter, meaningful conversations, travel, art, music. The word ‘wonderful’ just isn’t enough to convey how lovely she was.”

Making others feel better was important to Aida, says Richard, who says she would love knowing their estate will help many in the community do just that. •

Chuck and Aida Hillway leave a legacy through a residual beneficiary gift to Torrance Memorial.

F i nan cial H e alth S e m i nar s* Seminars are scheduled to be held in person on Saturdays, 9 to 11 a.m. with a Zoom option Hoffman Health Conference Center 3315 Medical Center Drive, Torrance Information & RSVP: 310-517-4728 January 13 Individual Taxation: Wrapping up 2023 & Planning for 2024 March 9 IRA & 401k RMD Planning to Protect Your Retirement Assets May 11 Savvy Social Security Planning *Dates and topics are subject to change.

HOW TO TALK ABOUT YOUR FINAL WISHES WRITTEN BY SYLVIA THOMPSON, BA, CMC, CDP, GRMS

In the United States, we struggle to talk about something that is an inevitable part of life: death. It will happen to all of us, yet so many avoid the subject at all costs, finding it uncomfortable, taboo or even offensive. People shift anxiously in their chairs when it’s brought up and brush off the subject saying, “It’s not the right time,” or “It is a depressing topic.”

So when is the right time? John F. Kennedy said, “The time to repair the roof is when the sun is shining.”

Likewise, the time to talk about death is when everyone is healthy.

WHY DO I NEED TO PLAN?

It’s important to discuss and document wishes before someone is seriously ill. Planning allows individuals to communicate their needs and desires while they are able.

It also allows thoughtful discussion without the emotional charge present in a crisis. Having a well-thought-out, documented plan about the care you want and what to do with your belongings after you’re gone helps avoid putting a burden on your family. You’re never too young to plan, and prior knowledge of your wishes will help things go more smoothly for those you appoint to handle your affairs.

HOW DO I START?

This doesn’t have to be one long conversation. In fact, I have found the best approach is to have a series of small conversations throughout your lifetime. Having conversations when no one is grieving is always best. Check your own comfort level so you can be as matter-of-fact as possible. Take every opportunity to comment on your wishes after seeing something in the news or a movie. Think about what matters to you and share your feelings with others. Sometimes starting with bigger questions can ease you into the details.

What do you want your life to have meant? What legacy do you want to leave? How do you want to be remembered?

For more care-related questions, great conversation starters like Five Wishes, a national advance care planning program, or a Go Wish deck of cards for tough end-of-life discussions are helpful.

TIP TO CONSIDER

When your loved one can’t seem to start their conversation, you start it! Tell them about your own wishes for yourself. It eases discomfort and creates a trusting atmosphere—then they’ll start working on their own wishes.

WHAT DO I NEED TO KNOW?

Six areas need to be considered and are handled in different ways: 1. Where do I want to spend my last days? Consider the different options of home, hospital or hospice home.

2. How do I want to be cared for? Who do I want caring for my needs, and what kind of care is important to me? Completing your Advance Health Care Directive can also help. Select someone as a health care agent who can make difficult decisions and stay true to your wishes.

3. Where/to whom do I want my things to go? An estate planning attorney can ensure your belongings and assets are addressed in your estate plan to avoid probate.

4. What gifts do I want to give/legacy do I want to leave?

An estate planning attorney can include language in to your trust to support your favorite charities as you wish.

5. What do I want to do with my body? Preplanning for mortuary services is available, providing tremendous support for families by planning the disposition and transfer of remains.

6. How do I want to be remembered? Most mortuaries will assist with planning and carrying out a memorial service onsite. For less traditional plans, cremation services and independent funeral planners can assist.

Many resources are available online to help guide these discussions. Having these conversations now about health care decisions, burial arrangements and all “necessary legalities” will allow everyone to understand the choices you made. If needed, you can also enlist the help of a counselor, spiritual advisor or care manager to facilitate a family conversation.

Sylvia Thompson, BA, CMC, CDP, GRMS, is an Aging Life Care Manager with Holistic Family Solutions and a Torrance Memorial Professional Advisory Council member. 310-904-9852 or sylvia.thompson220@gmail.com.

FAL L 2 023 | PATR ON S 41

The McKinnell family is moving beyond the routine urban experience to get closer and more intimate with the natural world around them.

YPPA

DELVING UNDER THE SURFACE In his work and his hobbies, Dr. James McKinnell has a gift of perception.

WRITTEN BY NANCY SOKOLER STEINER | PHOTOGRAPHED BY SIRI BERTING

W

hen a doctor can’t figure out the cause of a patient’s condition, he or she turns to a physician with advanced training in infectious disease—the specialty of James McKinnell, MD. Like television’s fictional Dr. House, Dr. McKinnell scrutinizes a patient’s symptoms, lab tests, health history and other factors to uncover the rare or complex infection or virus causing the problem.

42 PATR ON S | FALL 2 02 3

“When it comes to infectious disease, coming to the right diagnosis is the first step to bringing someone back from the brink of death,” he says. “What I like best about infectious disease is we frequently achieve a complete cure. These patients go home and live a full life.”

Dr. McKinnell says Torrance Memorial Medical Center offers the resources and environment he needs to perform his job, thanks in great part to the Torrance Memorial Foundation. “Torrance Memorial has some of the best laboratory testing capacities in all of Los Angeles County. We have the best microbiology machines. We have the most innovative diagnostic platforms. We have a phenomenal pharmacy with all the medications needed. It really has become the ideal place to practice.”

Appreciation of Torrance Memorial is one of the reasons Dr. McKinnell and his wife, Colleen, participate in the Young Physicians and Professionals Alliance (YPPA). The group raises funds for specific programs or projects within the medical center. You could call Dr. McKinnell a super supporter of YPPA—he’s served as the physician chair of the group for close to a decade.

“YPPA makes very effective use of the funds. We support specific programs or buy key equipment that may be relatively small in price but have a large impact on patient care,” says Dr. McKinnell, who currently cochairs the group with attorney Stephanie Bezner. Projects supported or enabled by YPPA include emergency evacuation kits for the neonatal intensive care unit; care kits for the eating disorders medical unit; the Daisy Award, which recognizes nurses; and The Reason is You Award, which recognizes outstanding patient service.

However, YPPA is more than a fundraising group.

“It’s a great social network where you can meet like-minded young professionals,” says Colleen. Dr. McKinnell agrees it provides a way for busy physicians to form new friendships.

In addition, gathering socially and forming

“TO HAVE SOMEONE TAKE THE TIME TO TELL YOU THAT YOU MADE A DIFFERENCE IN THEIR LIFE MEANS A LOT.”

relationships enhances physicians’ communication when they collaborate on patient care. He also finds it helpful to meet other professionals whose services he might need, such as a financial planner or real estate agent.

Dr. McKinnell has been a member of the infectious disease team at Torrance Memorial for 12 years. Before the pandemic, he taught at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center and maintained a research practice developing novel methods of preventing infections in skilled nursing homes and long-term care facilities. He also built a company providing infection control in such facilities.

Dr. McKinnell switched to full-time clinical work at the hospital in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

His clinical expertise is matched by his bedside manner. Dr. McKinnell recently earned The Reason is You Award, which recognizes outstanding patient care by any hospital employee. A patient nominated him “for comforting me when I was so nervous and anxious about what was going on in my body. He reassured me the team would do everything possible to find out what was going on. Dr. McKinnell, you have no idea how much your words comforted me and gave me hope and peace.”

“To have someone take the time to tell you that you made a difference in their life means a lot,” says Dr. McKinnell.

Dr. McKinnell knew he wanted to be a doctor from about the age of 14. The precocious teenager even knew he wanted to specialize in infectious diseases. This was during the time of HIV being widespread, and he recognized the great need for infectious disease physicians. Educated at Stanford and Columbia universities, he became attracted to the Southern California beach lifestyle while completing his residency at Harbor-UCLA. The ocean drew Dr. McKinnell and Colleen together eight years ago, and it’s something they enjoy as a couple.

Colleen is a scuba diving instructor, and the couple’s second date—the one that sealed the deal—was night scuba diving for lobsters at Veterans Park.

“It’s our favorite shared hobby,” says Colleen. The newlyweds spent their honeymoon diving off the islands of Palau, an archipelago in the Micronesia region.

Other diving destinations include Bali, Belize, Fiji, Hawaii and Mexico.

“It’s otherworldly, peaceful and calming” beneath the water, says Colleen. An animal lover, she enjoys seeing aquatic life. Colleen worked as a dive safety officer at the Aquarium of the Pacific in Long Beach prior to having the couple’s now-2-year-old daughter, Caroline. She continues to teach and volunteer there.

Dr. McKinnell appreciates the world that exists beneath the surface. “When people stand at the beach, many see just the waves and the sunset,” he says. “We like to view it with an awareness of what’s under the water—the unique other world.”

The McKinnells live in the city of Rolling Hills on the Palos Verdes Peninsula, where their 2-acre property is home to 20 chickens, hundreds of bees and a dog. Colleen is a master gardener and maintains extensive raised vegetable gardens and a fruit orchard that includes nectarine, peach, plum, avocado, grapefruit, apple and pomegranate trees. She volunteers with the county to teach gardening classes and staff information booths.

“Caroline loves helping,” Colleen says about her daughter. “The other day she helped me put sand in the coop. She helps with watering the chicks and refreshing their food and picks fruit from the orchard.”

Dr. McKinnell sums up the couple’s philosophy regarding food and nature: “We’re moving beyond the routine urban experience to get closer and more intimate with the natural world around us.”

Whether stalking mysterious infections, exploring the sea floor or running his hand through the soil, Dr. James McKinnell knows there’s so much more to life than what meets the eye. •

Jamie, Colleen and Caroline pick and eat sweet blackberries from the vine.

FAL L 2 023 | PATR ON S 43

I n Yo u r Co m m u n it y

HOLIDAY FESTIVAL 2022 OPPORTUNITY DRAWING Most years the community can purchase tickets for the chance to win a car through the Torrance Memorial Holiday Festival opportunity drawing. In 2022 Joe Giacomin of Martin Chevrolet generously donated an all-electric 2022 Chevrolet Bolt EUV Premier, valued at $41,270. Joe and his wife, Cynthia, were present in the festival tent on Sunday, December 4 to draw the winning tickets. Phyllis Pelezzare of Rancho Palos Verdes was the grand prize winner of the car. The second-place prize, a specially designed festival tree, went to Patrick Kennell, and the third-place prize of $500 cash went to John Schmidt.

1

2

1.

2.

3.

Grand prize winner Phyllis Pelezzare, a longtime donor and Ambassador Cynthia Giacomin picks the winning opportunity tickets, with Joe Giacomin and Laura Schenasi present Las Amigas volunteer Gail Quinn sells opportunity tickets daily in the Holiday Festival tent

44 PATR ONS | FALL 2 02 3

3

DR. MARK LURIE RETIREMENT FAREWELL RECEPTION

1

2

After 44 years of dedicated service, Mark Lurie, MD, retired as codirector of the Lundquist Lurie Cardiovascular Institute. The medical staff of Torrance Memorial Medical Center and COR Healthcare Medical Associates hosted a retirement reception on June 20 in the West Tower auditorium. Guests were treated to Dr. Lurie’s favorite delicacies of egg salad sandwiches, salty popcorn balls, candy and other forbidden cardiac treats.

Speakers also shared poignant and funny stories about his esteemed career, infectious personality and well wishes for the journey ahead.

PHOTOGRAPHED BY DEIDRE DAVIDSON

1.

3 7

4 8

5 9

6

10

Robin Camrin, Mark Lurie, MD 2. Alan Goldstein, Patricia Sacks, MD 3. Mark Lurie, MD, Eric Nakkim, MD, Pat Baldivia, David Rand, MD, Lisa Humphreys, MD 4. Mike Wyman, MD, John McNamara, MD, Lisa Humphreys, MD, Lynda Stoodley, NP, Salman Azam, MD, Ram Reddy, MD 5. Craig Leach, Melanie Lundquist, Richard Lundquist, Barbara Lurie, Mark Lurie, MD 6. Rich Lucy, Judith Gassner, Richard Lundquist, Laura Schenasi, Joe Hohm 7. Carole Hoffman, Mark Lurie, MD, Heidi Hoffman, MD 8. Rich Lucy, Mark Lurie, MD, Pat Lucy 9. Aileen Takahashi, MD, Mark Lurie, MD, Charles Spendler, MD, Brian Miura, MD 10. Joseph Lopez, MD, Vicky Shin, MD, Salman Azam, MD, Ankush Chhabra, MD, Chris Matchison, MD FAL L 2 023 | PATR ON S 45

I n Yo u r Co m m u n it y

ED EXPANSION FUNDRAISING EVENTS Torrance Memorial Medical Center is launching a seven-year $50 million emergency department (ED) expansion project to increase capacity, efficiency and access to emergency care. The Melanie and Richard Lundquist Emergency Department will expand to a two-story facility to accommodate the increasing number of patient visits. Torrance Memorial Foundation’s campaign goal is to raise $30 million to support the expansion.

To raise awareness in the community, guests gathered in local homes to hear from ED doctors and nurses about the critical need for this expansion.

On March 30, Laurie and Tom McCarthy hosted an event in their Manhattan Beach home with comments from Gretchen Lent, MD, and Angela Shvartsman, RN. On April 18, Meg and Anthony Walker hosted a gathering in their Palos Verdes home where Dana Kennedy, MD, and Cynthia Libertini, RN, shared with guests. On August 30, Bo and Dawn Kaplan hosted a gathering at the Palos Verdes Golf Club where guests heard from Eric Nakkim, MD, and Angela Shvartsman, RN.

Wa lke r h o m e A p r i l 1 8 PHOTOGRAPHED BY DEIDRE DAVIDSON

9

46 PATR ONS | FALL 2 02 3

M cCa rth y H o m e M a r c h 3 0

PHOTOGRAPHED BY DEIDRE DAVIDSON

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

10

11

K a p l a n PVG C Au g u st 3 0

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

Ann Zimmerman, Merilee Hobbs, Song Klein, Kay Sheth Diana Brandt, Barbara Bentley, Timme Gunderlock, Laurie McCarthy, Gretchen Lent, MD Elaine Gee, Karen Varon, Gretchen Lent, MD, Laurie McCarthy Judith Gassner, Cami Evans, Jenny Ha, Joy Theodora Laura Schenasi, Gina Kirkpatrick, Gregg Kirkpatrick Laurie McCarthy, Tom McCarthy

7.

Brian Miura, MD, Amanda Clauson, MD, Stephanie Tang, DO, Shannon Stacy, MD, Jenny Luo, MD, Dana Kennedy, MD 8. Shanna Hall, Merilee Hobbs, Keith Hobbs, Connie Senner 9. Pam Chitamitara, MD, Stephanie Tang, DO, Issac Yang, Ty Bobit, Dana Kennedy, MD 10. Anthony Walker, Meg Walker, Alexander Shen, MD 11. Courtney Doyle, Brad Sherman, Stephanie Sherman

12. Teri Young, Ayne Baker, Barbara Demming Lurie 13. Dana Kennedy, MD, Gretchen Lent, MD, Angela Shvartsman 14. Lisa Nakkim, Dawn Kaplan 15. Rick Rounsavelle, Kirsten Wagner 16. Carolyn Elliott, Alan Goldstein 17. Subir Chowdry, Jay Abraham, Dick Meyer, Christy Abraham 18. Nadine Bobit, Song Klein, Lori Baldwin, Christy Abraham 19. Eric Nakkim, MD, Angela Shvartsman, Dawn Kaplan, Bo Kaplan 20. Susan Welch, Wade Welch, Thyra Endicott, MD, Jonathan Chute, Kate Crane, Milan Smith

PHOTOGRAPHED BY EDWARD MCCLURE

12

13

14

15

16

17

18

19

20

FAL L 2 023 | PATR ON S 47

I n Yo u r Co m m u n it y

ANNUAL GOLF TOURNAMENT Palos Verdes Golf Club was the setting on June 5 for the 37th annual Torrance Memorial Golf Tournament sponsored by City National Bank.

Before the shotgun start for the scramble-format tournament, all 141 golfers competed in a stampede miracle putt with (one) Dr. Adam Goodman’s winning ball landing in the cup! After playing 18 holes, golfers returned to the clubhouse for a silent auction, reception and awards ceremony. The 2023 Golf Committee, chaired by Rick Higgins, deserves thanks for their diligence and participation in making the event successful. All proceeds support the emergency department expansion campaign.

3

PHOTOGRAPHED BY DEIDRE DAVIDSON

4

1

5 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

2

48 PATR ON S | FALL 2 02 3

Jim Collings, Eric DuPont, Don Douthwright, Neal Verga Craig Leach, Dana Kennedy, MD, Adam Goodman, MD, Kurt Hansen, MD Mike Emenhiser, Rick Higgins, Brent Williams, Craig Leach MaryLou Graziadio, Gina Graziadio Michael Wheatley, RJ Gibson, Harry Archung

6.

7.

Volunteers Joe Ciaramitaro, Joe Giacomin, Brock Palmer, Lewis Cook 8. Blake Beltramea, Rick Weaver 9. Jenny Luo, MD, Gretchen Lent, MD, Judith Gassner, Stephanie Tang, MD, Sophia Neveu, Elisa Anhalt, MD 10. Front: Greg Davis, Sam Sheth Back: Jeff Miller, Levi Lupercio 11. Tim Rogers, Twanna Rogers

6

10 7

9

8

11

FAL L 2 023 | PATR ON S 49

I n Yo u r Co m m u n it y 12. Tony Haig, Chris Profeta, Scott Rouse, Jarratt Rouse 13. Front: Adam Goodman, MD, Elisa Anhalt, MD, Michael Fiore PA, Dana Kennedy, MD, Erisa Pooee Back: Alex Shen, MD, Gretchen Lent, MD, Jenny Luo, MD, Brian Miura, MD, Brandy Van Zitter, Kurt Hansen, MD 14. Dan Dritschel, Mary Wright, Steve Wright, Aman Wright, Brian Wright 15. Lila Higgins, Rick Higgins, Eve Higgins, Jeff Higgins 16. Front: Erik Higgins, Jeff Higgins, Rick Higgins; Back: Ted Fisher 17. Daniel Scriba, Aaron McGinnis, Jerry Soldner, Jim Scriba 18. Front: Randy Dauchot, Allison Mayer; Back: Tracy Bracken, Steve Lopes, Dan Finnegan, Dave Klein, Brian Huben

15

12

16

13 17

14

50 PATR ONS | FALL 2 02 3

18

19

20

21

19. Dan Maniaci, Randy Greene, Eric Maniaci, Doug Bermudez 20. Alex Schumacher, Todd Schenasi, Marc Schenasi, Ed Whittemore 21. Kevin Talbot, Ed Wirtz, Paul Giuliano, Adam Rioux 22. Sean Collins, Thai Dinh, Eric Chessmore, Michael Vanderhoof, Joseph Mascari 23. Jon Lund, Gino Graziadio, Hudson Meyer, Gina Graziadio, Steve Calvillo, Mary Lou Graziadio, Connor Manzer 24. Zach Matos, Nick Burdiak, Jeff Wilson, Chris Adlam 25. Craig Leach, Daniel Leach, Paul Leach, David Leach, Eric DuPont

22

24

23

25

FAL L 2 023 | PATR ON S 51

I n Yo u r Co m m u n it y

HERITAGE SOCIETY LUNCHEON Torrance Memorial Heritage Society members were appreciated and acknowledged at the annual luncheon at Palos Verdes Golf Club on July 19. They were joined by donors who have made a donation annually for 10 or more consecutive years. CEO Craig Leach delivered his final State of the Medical Center address to this group. He retires October 31 after nearly 40 years at Torrance Memorial. Heritage Society members are those who have designated a gift to Torrance Memorial in their estate plan.

For more information, contact Sandy VandenBerge, director of planned giving, at 310-784-4843 or sandy.vandenberge@tmmc.com. You may also visit TorranceMemorialFoundation.org/planned-giving.

5

PHOTOGRAPHED BY DEIDRE DAVIDSON

6

7

1

8 2

3

1.

2.

3.

4.

4

52 PATR ON S | FALL 2 02 3

5.

6.

7.

8.

Gene Naftulin, MD, Karen Naftulin, Phil Pavesi, Christina Pavesi Rob Young, Teri Young Sheri Dodge, Casey Dodge Richard Lundquist, Melanie Lundquist, Merilee Hobbs, Keith Hobbs Mimi Brody, Sandy VandenBerge, Jill Brody Dick Chun, Nancy Peterson Phyllis Scribe, René Scribe Craig Leach, Richard Lundquist

WINE PROCUREMENT PARTY Neither the rain of tropical storm Hilary nor the quaking earth could keep supporters away from gathering on “hurriquake” Sunday, August 20, at the home of Laura and Marc Schenasi. Guests were asked to bring two bottles of wine to support the live and silent auctions at Torrance Memorial’s 40th anniversary Holiday Festival. Nearly 100 bottles of wine were collected. Cohosted by silent auction co-chairs Song Klein, Helaine Lopes, Jennifer Chen and Gina Kirkpatrick, guests enjoyed cocktails expertly made by Steve Lopes and David Klein, appetizers, tacos by El Taco Man, a selection of desserts and spirited conversation.

2

PHOTOGRAPHED BY DEIDRE DAVIDSON

3

4 1

5

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

Brian Takahashi, Maureen Takahashi, Anette Aquirre, John Aguirre, Patti Delcarson Jennifer Brown, Tami Mance Robert Bell, Laura Schenasi, Michele Bell Dee Scott, Kevin Fujimoto, Kathy Levy Lori Baldwin, Frederique Carver, Doug Popovich FAL L 2 023 | PATR ON S 53

I n Yo u r Co m m u n it y

AMBASSADORS AT THE COMEDY & MAGIC CLUB On July 12, the Torrance Memorial Ambassadors enjoyed a phenomenal evening at Mike Lacey’s The Comedy & Magic Club, a stand-up comedy venue in Hermosa Beach. Joining the Ambassadors were Foundation board members, trustees, VIPs, physicians and hospital employees. Angel Gains, Cathy Ladman and magician Blake Vogt entertained guests with plenty of laughs. Surprise guest comedian, actor, writer and author Paul Reiser entered the stage with microphone in hand. For the next 45 minutes, he lobbed a series of hilarious and relatable observations about the aging process, which resonated with everyone. Reiser says he became addicted to comedy and life the first time he made someone laugh.

3

4

PHOTOGRAPHED BY DEIDRE DAVIDSON

5

1

6 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

2

54 PATR ON S | FALL 2 02 3

Christy Abraham, Judith Gassner, Ann Zimmerman Melanie O’Regan, Tim Couglin, Angela Furkioti, Dean Furkioti, DDS, Frederique Carver, Doug Popovich Jim Schladen, Tory Schladen Jackie Geiger, Greg Geiger Claire Vida, Irene Henrikson, Nancy Bender, Karen Randazzo Moe Gelbart, PhD, Debby Gelbart, Kathy Borgida, Bernie Borgida, MD

7.

8.

9.

10.

11.

12.

13.

14.

15.

7

8

16.

Kurt Gunderlock, Timme Gunderlock, Diana Brandt, George Brandt Marilyn Miles, Frank Miles Sandra Jackson, Karl Jackson Deren Sinkowitz, MD, Mae Sinkowitz Christy Abraham, Jay Abraham Susan Chan, David Chan, MD, Karen Naftulin, Gene Naftulin, MD Kate Crane, the Honorable Milan Smith, Jr. Michael Rouse, Nancy Rouse, Melinda Rouse-Beaver, Fred Beaver Phil Pavesi, Christina Pavesi, Gisele Herrington, Norman Herrington Joe Hohm, Terry Hohm, Lori Marfield, Joel Marfield

9 10

12

11

13 14

15

16

FAL L 2 023 | PATR ON S 55

I n Yo u r Co m m u n it y

YPPA SUMMER PARTY Torrance Memorial’s Young Physicians and Professionals Alliance (YPPA) enjoyed a summer party hosted by Phyllis and Steven Spierer. YPPA members and their families enjoyed delicious Mexican fare, Handel’s ice cream sundaes and a bounce house. YPPA membership supports Torrance Memorial Foundation’s campaign to raise $30 million to support the emergency department expansion. Stephanie Tang, DO, an emergency medicine physician and YPPA committee member, shared how the expansion will ensure the members of the community will have continued access to the advanced care and services they have grown to trust at Torrance Memorial.

For more information, TorranceMemorialFoundation.org/yppa.

4

PHOTOGRAPHED BY DEIDRE DAVIDSON AND EDWARD MCCLURE

1.

2.

3.

Frank Yang, Sandy Yang, Joanne Chang, Matthew Chang Stephanie Tang, DO, Arabella Angemi Sophia Neveu, Brandon Hohm, Stephanie Tang, DO, Angela Park Sheldon, Brandy VanZitter, Nadia Antii, Sejal Penkar, Stephanie Bezner, Matthew Marshall Ben Archer, Melanie Archer, Steven Spierer, Phyllis Spierer, Cynthia Spierer, Joseph Spierer Jay Bajaria, Deveena Chandra, Arianna Bajaria, Amalia Bajaria Phyllis Spierer, Steven Spierer, Stephanie Tang, DO Courtney Mansour, Andrew Mansour, Ryan Mansour, Rocky Bringleson, Monica F. Bringleson Brian Bezner, Stephanie Bezner

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

1

5

2 7

3

56 PATR ON S | FALL 2 02 3

8

6

9

10

11 12

14

13

9.

10.

11.

12.

13.

14.

15.

15

16

16.

Olivia Blaylock, Meg Walker, Anthony Walker Emily Wong, Walter Nunez, Harper Nunez Jay Bajaria, Maneesh Penkar, MD Briana Bezner, Angela Park Sheldon, Stephanie Bezner, Anh Stenzel, Emory Stenzel, Greg Stenzel Brandy VanZitter, Brian Miura, MD, Marco Pech, Heather Pech, Isla Pech, Harper Pech Los Angeles County Fire Department with guests Sandy VandenBerge, Maneesh Penkar, MD, Judith Gassner, Kieran Penkar, Aiden Penkar Stephanie Bezner, Stanley Chang, MD

FAL L 2 023 | PATR ON S 57

S u ppo rte r s

TORRANCE MEMORIAL GIVES SPECIAL THANKS TO OUR MANY DONORS Gifts from March 1 to August 31, 2023

$2,000,000+ Aida and Charles Hillway Estate Irving Levine Melanie and Richard Lundquist Carol and Gerry Marcil

$1,000,000+ Barbara and David Bentley Henry and Jessica Chen Clair Eitel and Herta Bernauer Priscilla Hunt Bob and Mimi Liu Lisa and Robert Margolis, MD TF Educational Foundation

$500,000+ Marie† and Jim Campbell

$100,000+ American Honda Motor Co., Inc. Paul and Bernadette Chao Benjamin Cheng and Kim McCarthy Peggy and Pei Huang Kinecta Community Foundation Evelyn D. Lapham Mei Ying and Major Lin Laurie and Thomas McCarthy Carol and Karl McMillen Jr. Karen Vega and John Parks Ellen and Charlie Steinmetz Janice and Timur Tecimer Sheri and David Weinberg

58 PATR ONS | FALL 2 02 3

Timur Tecimer, Janice Tecimer, Delaney O’Brien Brown, Sam Sheth, Gregg Kirkpatrick, Gina Kirkpatrick—and the bartender too!

$50,000+ Sandra Brunsmann Linda and Zan Calhoun Paul and Bernadette Chao Coull Foundation Harry and Frances Fleming Loretta and Art Kaiser, DDS Caren and Jordan Libit Thipnongnuch and Larry Miller

Hangup and Michelle Moon Mary O’Hern† Nancy and Larry Pasquali Phyllis Pelezzare Carleen and Paul Schwartz Sophie and Arnaud Solandt Renee Warren Nancy Weisel Frances and Stanley Zee

$20,000+ City National Bank Peggy and Robert Dowell Employee Ambassadors Program Edward Hancock Donna Helstrom Darius Irani Colleen and James McKinnell, MD Ann Marie and Michael Morris Twanna and Tim Rogers Judith Sipes Torrance Memorial Medical Staff Vistas for Children, Inc.

Martin Chevrolet Mascari Warner Dinh Architects Carol McCully Rita and Joe Meistrell Izzat Alamdari, NP, and Eric Milefchik, MD Marilyn and Frank Miles Porsche South Bay James Scriba Sam and Kay Sheth Solid Rock Structural Solutions, Inc. Torrance Pathology Group/ Memorial Medical Center Diane and Bill Wingerning

$2,500+ $15,000+ Hilde Boldt Estate Steve Booth COR Healthcare Medical Associates Terry and Joe Hohm, CPA Payden & Rygel Nina Ritter and Robert Mullarkey

$10,000+ Sandy Behrens Anita and Bill Bronstein Lesley and James Foster Cindy and Bill Hagelstein Eve and Rick Higgins Terry and Joe Hohm, CPA Laura Lamping and Thomas Pawlak Judy and Craig Leach Luminaries and Novas of Torrance Memorial Marilyn MacLeod Doris and Gregory Morton Torrance Emergency Physicians World Point Terminals

$5,000+ Feng Chao Digestive Care Consultants Medical Group Green Hills Memorial Park Carol H. Griest Keenan & Associates Karen and Michael Learned

Valerie and Chris Adlam Amazon Web Services, Blake Beltramea James Andrews Arroyo Insurance Services Stephanie and Brian Bezner Donald and Kathy Black Nadine and Ty Bobit c|a Architects Patricia and Dick Carlson Louise and David Clinton Sheryl Comon Kathleen Crane and The Honorable Milan Smith, Jr. Del Amo Garden Care Center EMCOR Services Mesa Energy Roy C. Fu, MD, and Denise Kwok George & Reva Graziadio Foundation GIC Partnership Noelle and Paul Giuliano Ronnie and Alan Goldstein Teresa Gordon Susan Greenberg Rudich and Howard Rudich Patricia Kromka Kristy and Eric Maniaci McCarthy Building Companies MS Rouse Co, Inc. Patricia and Larry Murphy Murray Company PNG Builders Donna and Harry Schauwecker Laura and Marc Schenasi Allyson and Alex Shen, MD

Erin and Andrew Sloves South Bay Hyundai Tim Susoev Gina and Bill Whittlesey Lisa and Mike Wilson Mary and Steve Wright YPPA of Torrance Memorial

$1,000+ Martin Adler Khrystyna Pavlova and Riad Adoumie, MD Michaela and John Andrawis, MD Audi Pacific Peggy and Morton Bauchman Elaine Booth-Carnegis Laurie and John Bucher Buckingham Investments James Cabaniss Edna Campbell Capital Group Companies Global Priscilla and Frank Clark Ruth and Harv Daniels Lenore and John De Luca Fred Di Bernardo Disney Suzann and Don Douthwright Mary and Steven Fisher, MD Jeanina and Herbert Franck Karen Gottlieb Graystone Consulting, Morgan Stanley Christine Haidos Lori and Jerome Haig Bruce Hoerning Erin Hoffman and Heidi Hoffman, MD Sandy and Karl Jackson Surendra and Kala Jain Alma and Barry Johnsin, DDS John Johnson, MD Susan and Lawrence Kneisley, MD Harold and Linda Koletsky Patricia and Thomas LaGrelius, MD Charlotte and Russ Lesser Helaine and Steve Lopes Laurie and Steve Love Pat and Richard Lucy Heidi and John Mackenbach Lori and Joel Marfield Sudy and Bud Mayo

FAL L 2 023 | PATR ON S 59

S u ppo rte r s Sunny Y. Melendez, MD, and Ron Melendez, MD Catherine Melton Mobile Heartbeat Warren Oda and Juliet Chang Karen and John Odom Melanie R. O’Regan Delores Parcell Chris Profeta Karen and Dan Pryor Denise Scarpetti Diane and Eric Schott Jerry Schwartz, MD, and Mojgan Chegounchei, RN Pam and John Sebourn Stephanie and Brad Sherman George J. So, MD, and Hsin-Yi Lee, MD Spierer, Woodward, Corbalis & Goldberg Stephanie L. Tang, DO Irene Terrell Torrance Anesthesia Medical Group Torrance Radiology Medical Group Tortuga Wealth Management Triton Pacific Construction Group Charles Turek, MD Mary Jo and Jerome Unatin, MD Patricia A. Vincent Terri and Dennis Cammarano Susan and Matthew Whelan Windes Teri and Rob Young Nancy and Roger Zapor

$500+ Elisa I. Anhalt, MD. and Douglas D. Laurin Greg and Tiffany Becker, MD Michele and Robert Bell Peggy and Cliff Berwald Big Island Eats and Shave Ice LLC Blackbaud Giving Fund Steve Bourgeois Veann and Tracy Bracken Diana and George Brandt Anita Canfield Joseph Caywood Cody Charnell Yvonne Chavez Kathy Cohen

60 PATR ON S | FALL 2 02 3

Fern and Martin Cohen Desiree and Jim Collings Susanna Wolfe-Corpus and Ronald Corpus Angie and Kelly Cunningham D & R Office Works Sara and Omer Deen, MD Donna and R. Stephen Doan Dunn & Associates Michael Emenhiser Danielle and Brian English Regina and Dan Finnegan Joseph M. Friedrich, MD Elaine and Byron Gee Nancy and Keith Hauge Chih-Ming and Shirley Ho Matt Hoffman Carole Hoffman Brian Huben Lindsay and Peter Imwalle Venkatesh Iyer Kendra Scott William E. Kim, MD, and Kay Kim Song and David Klein

Ron Montalto and Dick Meyer

Gigi and David Kramer Joseph Lanphen James Larson Gretchen Lent, MD Andrea and Jamie Lewis, MD Lisa and Christopher Martz Uni and Harry Mayesh Marjory and John McKeeve Chaitali and Akshay Mehta, MD Mercer Human Resources Consulting Roxanne and Ramin Mirhashemi, MD Ann and Daniel Mueller Mychal’s Learning Place Mary and Dennis Noble Francine Park, MD Robyn and Al Peacock III Premier Infusion Care Vincent Rios Raquel Roy Kathy and Romolo Santarosa Carmen and Gordon Schaye, MD Marcia and Michael Schoettle Karen Shum, DPM

Silverado Senior Living Linda and David Smith Cyndy and Joe Spierer Carol and John Stratton, MD Elliot T. Sumi, MD, and Nani Sumi Torrance Radiation Oncology Assoc.

Vereco Healthcare Solutions Erin and Brent Wauke Janet Westergaard Mary and Scott Wheatley Kathy and David Willock Sarah Wohn, PsyD Dwight and Kay Yamada Basil Younes, MD Hilary and Clay Zachry

$250+ AmazonSmile Foundation Ana Auz-Law Cindy and Matt Bandy Joshua Berger, MD Tracy Breshears Ujjwala Dheeriya, MD Patricia Drew Elsewhere Espresso Ted Fisher Frontstream SPV LLC Debbie Goodman Leslie E. Goodman Justine Gregorio and Andrew Gregorio Keith Hall Irene Howard Kathleen Jucar Dana Kennedy, MD Tonny Meng-Che Lee, MD, and Jessica Tsai, DDS Estela Levin Isabella and Michael Levine Barbara Demming Lurie and Mark Lurie, MD Jesse and Shanon Markward Melissa and Dustin McNabb Michele and James Mollenkamp, MD Cessie and John Moody Katy and Samuel Morris Maria and Dru Olton Susan Osa Debra Ray Dani Rodriguez-Brindicci and Ricc Brindicci

Nancy and Michael Rouse Angela and Hank Sheldon Brooke Sigler Simplr Majd Tarakji Margaret and Peter Wang Robyn Westfall Allison Yen

$100+ Charlotte Adlam and Zach Matos Lesley Aitchison Gina Albi Tasneem Bholat, MD, and Sam Alherech Deveena Chandra and Jay Bajaria Janet† and Robert Bill Evri and Nikolin Bimbli James Birdoes Khandmaa Bix Cynthia Blinn Kathy Braasch Sylvia and George Bronaugh Trudy Brown Raquel and John Bulman Orasa Bunnathong Richard Choi Classy Bag Lady Dale Michele, Inc. Kristen Damon Aneela Farooqi Paul Friedman Laurie Glover Carra Graziadio and Jonathen Lund Shanna and Jack Hall Barbara and Fred Haney Charlene and Jon Harrison Deborah and Dave Hartlerode Nicole and Ronny Hay Ann and Steve Hinchliffe Jenn and Brandon Hohm Pamela Hovland Jackeez & Nicolz Patrick Ladden Rita Ladden Debbie Landes Shirley Langer Lavender Blue, Inc. Sing Sing Lee

Jennifer Leonard Martha and David Leveille, MD Catherine Leys Jenny Luo, MD Doreen and Daniel Maricich Annsley and Matthew Marshall Ana Milla Brian Miura, MD Lorena Montoya Betty Mullen Shalini Singh and Vimal Murthy, MD Sophia and Philippe Neveu Ingrid Nielson Susana Noya Norma and John Oester Leslie Ogg Stanford Orfila Maria Pavlick Sejal and Maneesh Penkar, MD Alfred Peters Diana and Mark Pfeil Karen and Michael Randazzo Kris Rone Ronelle Designs Linda Shapiro Edward Shimp Gail and Conrad Siegel Mae and Deren Sinkowitz, MD Linda Speer Jeffrey Su Ray Tanner The Treasured Accessory Nina Tisner Neal Verga Janis and Gregory Vogt Carol Wexler Kimball Winans Diane and Donald Wozniak

FAL L 2 023 | PATR ON S 61

S u ppo rte r s

AMBASSADORS VISIONARY Sandy Behrens Jean Breedlove Katy and Greg Laetsch Diane and Davis Moore Twanna and Tim Rogers Elaine Scott Liz and Rich Umbrell Colleen and Edward Whittemore, III

PREMIER Valerie and Chris Adlam Susan and David Chan, MD Chevron U.S.A. Jan and Cliff d’Autremont Surf Management, Inc. Patricia and Paul Francis Ronnie and Alan Goldstein Cindy and Bill Hagelstein Kay and William Kim, MD Dianne and Ned Mansour Garrett Matsunaga, MD, and Melanie Dee, MD Allison and Rick Mayer Izzat Alamdari, NP, and Eric Milefchik, MD Marilyn and Frank Miles Jacquelyne and Steven Miller Christina and Phil Pavesi Phyllis Pelezzare Mary and Timothy Richardson Celia and Robert Rothman Robin and RJ Smith Diane and Bill Wingerning

PLATINUM Donald and Kathy Black Patricia and Dick Carlson Louise and David Clinton Nancy Combs Paul’s Photo, Inc. Alyson and Dean Decker Donna and R. Stephen Doan Peggy and Robert Dowell

62 PATR ONS | FALL 2 02 3

Diane Liebenson and Thomas Duralde, MD Dorothy and Bill Farris Melanie Friedlander, MD Susan Greenberg Rudich and Howard Rudich Rosalind Halikis Ann and George Hartmann Jr. Susan Heflinger Nazanin and Amir Kaviani, MD Stan and Barbara Levine Sudy and Bud Mayo Trish and John Peterson Jonathan Po, MD, and Harriet Po Tamara Ritchey Powers Ellen and Clay Smith Robert Stephenson Douglass Stewart Ellen and Pat Theodora Janet and Doug Van Riper Nancy Weisel Susan and Wade Welch Gina Gualtiere-Whittlesey and Bill Whittlesey Alissa and Robert Wilson Terry and Jim Witte Dwight and Kay Yamada Andrea and Michael Zislis

GOLD Khrystyna Pavlova and Riad Adoumie, MD Frank Y. An, MD Janice and Mark Ancheta, MD Elisa Anhalt, MD, and Douglas Laurin Michele and William Averill, MD Lori and David Baldwin Peggy and Morton Bauchman Peggy and Cliff Berwald John D. Blakey, MD Jeanie and Don Blum Trudy Brown Ann and David Buxton James Cabaniss Linda and Zan Calhoun Vinh Cam, MD, and Judy Nei Jim and Julie Chen

Philip W. Chung, MD, and Lauren Choi, MD Priscilla and Frank Clark Fred Clayton Kathy and Paul Cohen Joy and Marc Colman, MD Kathleen Crane and The Honorable Milan Smith, Jr. Pam Crane Don Culler Judy Dabinett Cindy and Steven Dennis Susan Dilamarter Juli and Michael DiLustro James Ding, MD, and Marcia Ding, MD Beth A. Dorn, MD Suzann and Don Douthwright Marina D’Souza, MD Valerie Carrier and Eric Dupont Sally and Mike Eberhard Beth and Berkley Eichel, MD Mary and Steven Fisher, MD Janet and John Fleming Jeannine and Dennis Frandsen Juan Frisancho, MD Angela and Dean Furkioti, DDS Judith Gassner Jackie and Greg Geiger Karen Gottlieb Marnie and Dan Gruen Christine and Alek Haidos Chansen and Miaoshia Han Christine Hanson Donna Marie and Eugene Hardin, MD Teresa and Zaffar Hassanally Donna Helstrom Agi Hirshberg Mike Ho, MD, and Joanna Ho Merilee and Keith Hobbs Erin Hoffman and Heidi Hoffman, MD Kalpana Hool, MD, and Hugo Hool, MD Daniel Hovenstine, MD, and Richard Bruno Lesley and Colin Hull Kim and Donald Inadomi, MD Sandy and Karl Jackson Alma and Barry Johnsin, DDS John Johnson, MD

Hakimeh Kadivar, MD Valerie and Edward Kelly Susan and Lawrence Kneisley, MD Rachel Knopoff, MD, and Russell Dickerson, MD Paula and Arthur Kozinski Sherry and Ian Kramer, MD Patricia Kromka John and Yukiko Kuno Patricia and Thomas LaGrelius, MD Donna LaMont Monica Lee and Ernest Kwok George and Christina Legg Barb and Barry LeQuire Charlotte and Russ Lesser Linda and David Lillington Tracy and Andy Livian Laurie and Steve Love Nelman Low, MD, and Karen Low Melody and Thomas Lowe, MD Vicky and Winston Mar Kimcee McAnally, PhD Lori and Joel Marfield Sunny Melendez, MD, and Ron Melendez, MD Catherine Melton Sheri Messerlian, PhD, and Jack Messerlian Eduard E. Morf Joanne and Marc Moser Patricia and Larry Murphy Karen and Gene Naftulin, MD Erin and Brian Neal Warren Oda and Juliet Chang Karen and John Odom Judith K. Opdahl Melanie R. O’Regan Delores Parcell Linda Pullen-Buehl Rose Anne and Jerry Redman Rhea and Patrick Rendon Tiffany Rogers, MD Raquel Roy Laura and Marc Schenasi Marcia and Michael Schoettle Marlene Schultz and Philip Walent Jerry Schwartz, MD JoAnn and Kemper Shaw Allyson and Alex Shen, MD Robert Sickler

Timme Gunderlock, Lori Kaiser, Art Kaiser, DDS, George Brandt

Mae and Deren Sinkowitz, MD Fay and Mitchell Sklar, MD George So, MD, and Hsin-Yi Lee, MD Betty Strauss Ruth Sve Irene Terrell Charles Turek, MD Mary Jo and Jerome Unatin, MD Karen Varon Terri and Dennis Cammarano Kerry and David Wallis, MD Brigid and James Wethe, MD Susan and Matthew Whelan Cynthia Williams, MD, and Alan Gahleb Judith and Barry Wolstan, MD Peter and Monica Wong Cathi and R. Michael Wyman, MD Nancy and Roger Zapor

SILVER Christy and Jay Abraham Michelle Ahnn Michaela and John Andrawis, MD Robert F. Appell, PharmD

Marcia and Lawrence August, MD Harriet Bailiss-Sustarsic Josie and Stephen Balzano Cindy and Matt Bandy Michele and Robert Bell Meenakshi Bhasin-Shah, MD, and Samir Shah Diana and George Brandt Elena and Larry Bruns Edna Campbell Anita Canfield Lauren and Benjamin Carroll, MD Angie and Kelly Cunningham Frederique Carver and Doug Popovich Stanley Chang, MD, and Joanne Chang Lilian and Patrick Chik Donna and Michael Ciminera Fern and Martin Cohen Patricia Croce Ittie and Warren Cutting, DDS Inge and Duane Davis Vanessa Dickey, MD Karla Burns and Brett Dillenberg Diane Dunn Lisa Fisher, MD, and Brian Fitzgerald

FAL L 2 023 | PATR ON S 63

S u ppo rte r s Farnaz and Lawrence Flechner, MD LeRoy Forehand Karen and John Freeman Elaine and Byron Gee Deborah and Moe Gelbart, PhD Debra and Damien Goldberg, DDS Susan and Richard Gomez Nancy Griffith, MD, and Richard Schell Timme and Kurt Gunderlock Nancy and Keith Hauge Lynne and Jim Held Beth and Erik Higgins Chih-Ming and Shirley Ho Lindsay and Peter Imwalle Maria and Robert Jaques Michelle and John Katnik David S. Kim, MD Wendy Klarik Song and David Klein Harold and Linda Koletsky Gigi and David Kramer Lisa and Carl Lahr Joseph Lanphen Tonny Meng-Che Lee, MD, and Jessica Tsai, DDS Martha and David Leveille, MD Andrea and Jamie Lewis, MD Kenneth Libkin Helaine and Steve Lopes Darlene Lucio Crystal and Roderick Macdonell Ryan Mansour Lisa and Christopher Martz Uni and Harry Mayesh Laura and Ronald McIntire Marjory and John McKeeve Lisa Humphreys, MD and John McNamara, MD

Mary and Gus Meier Roxanne and Ramin Mirhashemi, MD Margaret and Chris Moggia Ann and Daniel Mueller Shalini Singh and Vimal Murthy, MD Cassandra Ndiforchu, MD, and Fombe Ndiforchu, MD Mary and Dennis Noble Elizabeth Paul Maria Pavlick Robyn and Al Peacock III Cynthia and Laurence Percz Linda Perry Candace and Larry Poindexter Gina Quatrine Marcie and Scott Rees, DDS Aloisia and Alfons Ribitsch Lori and Ray Richard Perlita and Forrest Riopelle David and Yoshiko Rock Kathy and Romolo Santarosa Carmen and Gordon Schaye, MD Linda Schultz, PhD, and Arthur Schultz, DDS Barbara L. Schulz, MD Robb and Donna Scoular Jane Semel, MD Stacey and Chris Shane Dorothy Shen Trudy Smith Carolyn Snyder Erin and Paul Stanley Bert Stewart Diane and Lewis Stone Carol and John Stratton, MD Nani and Elliot Sumi, MD William Tarng, MD Janice and Timur Tecimer Robyn Westfall

Mary and Scott Wheatley Janet Westergaard Kathy and David Willock Curtice Wong, MD Arlene Yakush Ellen and George Zelinsky Ann and Gary Zimmerman

LIFETIME Gail and Doug Allen, CLU Betty Belsky Achara and Thomas Cowell, MD Virginia and Dennis Fitzgerald Sherry and Thomas Gossett, MD Patti and Al Hermann Carole Hoffman Terry and Joe Hohm, CPA Kathleen and Richard Krauthamer, MD Sylvia and Robert Laxineta, DDS Judy and Craig Leach Pat and Richard Lucy Carol Magee Cheryl Melville Genevieve and Hugh Muller Robin and Norman Panitch, MD Ellen and Fraser Perkins, MD Peggie and Gerald Reich, MD Carlene and Edward Reuscher Patricia Sacks, MD Beya and Robert Schaeffer Jr., MD Laura and Tom Simko, MD Kimberly and David Stone, MD Tina and Peter Vasilion Erin and Patrick Yeh, MD

YOUNG PHYSICIANS & PROFESSIONALS ALLIANCE (YPPA) Michelle Abraham Charlotte Adlam and Zach Matos Nicole Alexander Spencer, MD Janice and Mark Ancheta, MD Michaela and John Andrawis, MD Elisa Anhalt, MD, and Doug Laurin

64 PATR ONS | FALL 2 02 3

Nadia Antii Melanie and Benjamin Archer Alejandra Arrendondo Megan and Andrew Bark Bret Barrett Lauren Bauer

Stephanie and Brian Bezner Kevin Bidenkap Cynthia Blinn-Bauer Nadine Bobit Tasneem Bholat, MD, and Sam Alherech Danielle Boujikian

John Campo, MD Drisa Carrizo Joanne and Stanley Chang, MD Cody Charnell Christine Chui Amanda Clauson, MD Susanna Wolfe-Corpus and Ronald Corpus Shoshana and Phillip Cutler Kristen and Drew Damon Sara and Omer Deen, MD Alice Diego-Malit, MD Carissa and Benjamin Ellis Danielle and Brian English Melanie Friedlander, MD Joseph Friedrich Denise and Roy Fu, MD Aziz Ghaly, MD Laurie Glover Maria Sass Goldstein and Jared Goldstein Teresa Gordon Lori and Jerome Haig Charles Hargraves Erin and Heidi Hoffman, MD Jenn and Brandon Hohm Naiwei Hsu, RN Kathleen Jucar Dawn and Bo Kaplan Dana Kennedy, MD Veronica and Jeff Kern Song and David Klein Connie and Jeff Lai Gretchen Lent, MD Kathy Levy, RN Catherine Leys Cynthia Libertini, RN Beth Lowerison, RN Jenny Luo, MD Susan and David Mackenbach Heidi and John Mackenbach Courtney and Ryan Mansour Annsley and Matthew Marshall Colleen and James McKinnell, MD Donna McNeely Kimberly McNeil Chaitali and Akshay Mehta, MD Erik Milanez Brian Miura, MD Austin Moller Spencer Moller

Kevin Bidenkap, Kathy Levy, Rico Libertini, Cynthia Libertini

Roberta Moller Katy and Samuel Morris Keith and Amanda Murphy, MD Shalini and Vimal Murthy, MD Nadav Nahumi, MD Sophia and Philippe Neveu Maria and Dru Olton Sarina Pai, DO Jennifer and Victor Pan Francine Park, MD Sejal and Maneesh Penkar, MD Luis Peralta Vincent Rios Maggie Rodriguez, RN Dani Rodriguez-Brindicci and Ricc Brindicci Madeline and Alex Schumacher Angela Park-Sheldon, CFP, and Hank Sheldon Allyson and Alexander Shen, MD Stephanie and Brad Sherman Pam and Brian Sherman, MD Karen Shum, DPM Brooke and Marty Sigler Cyndy and Joseph Spierer

Kellie and Todd Stender Brittany and Jason Stone Cassie Parra and Jeffrey Su Gina Sulmeyer, MD, and Michael Arriola Stephanie Tang, DO William Tarng, MD Natalie Thorpe, RN, and Dave Thorpe Sean Tompkins Wynne Torqueza, RN Shelly Trites, RN Elizabeth and Richard Umbrell Brandy VanZitter, RN Meg and Anthony Walker Sarah Wohn, PsyD Basil Younes, MD Hilary and Clay Zachry Andrea and Michael Zislis

FAL L 2 023 | PATR ON S 65

S u ppo rte r s

PROFESSIONAL ADVISORY COUNCIL Nadia Antii, CRPC Gregory Becker, Esq. Beti Tsai Bergman, Esq. Stephanie Bezner, Esq. Gene Brown, CLPF Yvonne Chavez, CLPF Stephen F. Connors, CFP Phillip Cook, CFP Christian Cordoba, CFP Maureen Dearden Vince Fierro

Nancy Gragg, CWS Suzanne Grudnitski, CLPF Eric J. Harris, Esq. Connor Hartwell, CFP Brandon Hohm, CPA Alexis M. Jensen, CPA Derrick Kawamoto, EA Mathew Moore Karen Pryor (Co-chair) Cristin H. Rigg, CFP, CDFA Gregory Schill, CFP

F. Thomas Schlappatha, CFP Marianne C. Sfreddo, CPA Grace Greer St. Clair, Esq. Larry Takahashi, CFP (Co-chair) Sylvia Thompson Mark Tsujimoto Stuart Tsujimoto, CFP Abby Waddell

Sam and Rose Feng Harry and Frances Fleming Myrna Frame Henry Frankenberg Judith and Robert Frinier Sunila Fuster, MD Sidney Gamber Sue Glessner Irene Goldman and David Sato† Rebecca Gonzales and James Ng Susan Goodlerner, MD, and Ed Wolfman Mary Gotham† Karen Gottlieb George W. Graham† Patricia and Gary† Hathaway, MD Adrianne and Alan† Hegge Donna Helstrom Patricia and David Hempel Joan Henderson Eve and Rick Higgins Aida Hillway† Keiko and Allen Hochstein Carole A. Hoffman Daniel Hovenstine, MD Donald† and Priscilla Hunt Gary Hunter Maude Infantino David and Tracy Isenberg June Kaneoka Ronna and Robert† Katz

Sylvia Kennedy Stuart C. Kern Robert P. Koch Millie Kruger Micki and Norman Lasky, MD Irving Levine Hilary Lord Pat and Richard Lucy Melanie and Richard Lundquist Barbara Demming Lurie and Mark Lurie, MD Judith Maizlish Larry Maizlish Franceen† and Michael McClung Del McCulloch Carol McCully and Ed Barad Kak and David McKinnie Sandra and Kenneth McKivett Linda Severy McMahon and Jerold McMahon Carol and Karl McMillen Rita and Joseph C. Meistrell Cheryl Melville Richard Meyer, DDS Myron and Luise Miller Doris and Gregory Morton Steve Nash and Dell Fortune† Victoria Nishioka† Susann Norton Colleen O’Neill Judith Opdahl

HERITAGE SOCIETY James Andrews Karen† and Bob Armstrong Lenore Bemis Peggy and Wayne Bemis, DDS Hilde Boldt† Elaine Booth-Carnegis Jan and Virgil Bourgon Robert† and Patricia Brewster Mimi Brody Ronnie Brown† Maria Buechler James Philip Burt James R. Cabaniss Marie† and James Campbell Kathleen and Milton Campbell Benjamin Cheng and Kim McCarthy Marilyn Chevalier† Herbert Clarkson Francine and Phillip Cook Melody and Gary Cooper Bette and Dick Crowell† Joyce and Bob Daniels Ruth and Harv Daniels Rejandra and Manjri Dhami Ginny and John Dixon Sheri and Casey Dodge Arlene and Dale† Dorman Thyra Endicott, MD, and Jonathan Chute Judy English and William Crudup, MD† Jack Feldman and Darla Valliant

66 PATR ONS | FALL 2 02 3

Kenneth O’Rourke Lore and Marv Patrick Christina and Phil Pavesi Nancy Peterson and Dick Chun Fran and Rob Peveler Judy and Dan Platus Donna and John† Prysi Carlene Ringer† Betty Jane and Ernest Rivera Lavonne and Jerry† Rodstein Kirsten Wagner, DDS, and Richard Rounsavelle, DDS Laura and Marc Schenasi

Diane and Eric Schott Barbara Schulz, MD Elaine and David Scott, MD Loraine† and Ralph† Scriba René and Phyllis Scribe John R. Sealy, MD Judy and Sherrill† Sipes Joan and Herbert Stark Thelma† and Phil Steinberg Nancy and Douglas Teulie Inge Thompson Frances and Stuart Tsujimoto Carolyn† and Charles Turek, MD

Sandy VandenBerge Marcela and John Vanhara William Victor Susan K. Warner Suzanne Webb Nancy Weisel Carol A. Wharton Lois and Richard Winters Teri and Rob Young Stanley and Frances Zee † Deceased

EMPLOYEE AMBASSADORS PREMIER $1,000+ Heidi Assigal Derek Berz Mary Bradfield-Smith Robin Camrin Zenaida Carrillo-Ramo Dolores Cellier Mary Ford Judith Gassner Debbie Griffin Christina Hicks Naiwei Hsu Paul Kantor Debra Kelley Wilfredo N. Lazarte Mary Matson Tami Nakama Maureen Palladini Chris Rogers Laura Schenasi Julie Taylor Mary Wright

BENEFACTOR $500+ Nancy Agustin Melissa Andrus Cecilia Ani Kathie Avakian

Cecilia Banania Bret Barrett Dan Bauman Lance Bommelje Joy Burkhardt Heather Burt Agnes Butardo Alan Chung Phil Cutler Michelle Dahle Sandra E. Daos Josefina David-Engel Dan Dickson Jann Dickson Josephine Espejo Mary E. Espinoza Don Florentino Estrada Justin Ficke Erin Fiorito Kimberly Flores Tammy Ginder Herna Joy Gonzalez Shanna Hall Jeremiah Hargrave Keith Hobbs Linda Howard David Hozaki Barbara Jane Ignacio Carolyn Ito Janet Johnson

Mike Johnson Anne Kienberger Dennis Kikuno Daniel Klein Min Min Kyaw Sandra Langhammer Steve Lantz Bill Larson Patricia Leonard Eva Sophia Magdaleno Fernando Magdaleno Patricia Mann Cindy Manson Wei Q. Mao Marguerite McCormick Elaine McRae Eva Mendenhall Maria L. Mendoza Melany Merryman René Miller Anne Milliken Rhoda M. Newman Young Oh Betsy Osborne Ronald Padilla Lorena Maria G. Pascual Ann Raljevich Karen Randazzo Bernadette Reid Addy Rodriguez

Susan Santos Catherine Sarcona Connie Senner Heather Shay Joe Shea LaDonna Shea Michael R. Steele Devi Sutrisna Natalie Thorpe Veronica Urbano Sandy VandenBerge Patrick Wecker Betty Wilber Sean Yokoe Joanne Yoshida

SPONSOR $250+ Mary Ann Merritt Mary Ann J. Alvarez Gwendolyn Bailey Lisa Bargar Irene L. Bayan Jennis Belen Susan Castillo Changrong Cheng Heidi Chong Danielle Cosgrove Jeanette M. Cutuli Lety De La Torre

FAL L 2 023 | PATR ON S 67

S u ppo rte r s Tami DeVine Carla Duhovic Maria Eclevia Cheryl Ely Carlos Fernandez Alfrenda Gonzales Kathy Hagemeier Natalie Hassoldt Debbie Hoagland Rosario Jarquin Changkyun Kim Susan Koch Julie A. Krueger John Kumashiro Esther Lopez Maricarmen Luhrsen Patrick Matteo Anne McCormick Pamela Michael Barbara Minami Janice Miyashiro Glenda M. Moore Nancy Mukai Mary Ong Shirley Rose Pasion Paty Pearce Vilma Plagata Zenaida Poquiz Cyndy Spierer and Joe Spierer

68 PATR ONS | FALL 2 02 3

Armando Ramos Faye Ramos Debbie Reyes Sam Rodriguez Arceli Salanguit Dan Schakel Todd Schenasi Susan Sions Dianna Tyndall Aileen N. Ungab Maria Valdivia Larry Villalba, Jr. Dianne Wood Lori Woodman Phil Yim Sylvia Yim Rosie Zamora

DONOR $100+ Susie Kim Adams Tomoko Akazawa Bibi Ali Oliva Arcala Maria Arteaga Jose Albert Rey Asis Sheryl Y. Au Sara K. Avakian

Sara Cruz Baldos Mary Beehler Melissa Benoit Maricela Bordenave Carly Brandt Liliana Brankovic Dinah Cabalatungan Evelyn Calip Rosalinda Catamisan Julie Che-Potter Ingrid Cobb Coral Cortez Carolyn Cruz Mina Dastgheib Geraldine De La Cruz Heather Dixon Linda Dobie Margaret Doran Cindy Durant Mary J. Eddy Juliana S. Enge Ana Maria Espejo Marissa Farol Helen Flores Tom Fox Carol E. Fukuchi Sidney Gamber Jill Golden

Mary Accetta Goodloe Zorayda Gozun Tracey Green Cathy Guthrie Jacqueline Hemmah Mary Hersh Bruce A. Hershberger Vickie Hershberger Nathan Higashigawa Suellen G. Hosino Lisa G. Hughes Valerie Ishihara Cynthia Keus Freda Khan Kimberley Koontz Cassandra Krutsinger Chance Krutsinger Gerald Lanphen Trisha Lanphen Ashley Lavezzari Judy Grace Lebrillo Kristina Lenehan Chi Leung Mary Jane Lew Nolan Lew Christine Lopez Martha Lopez Richard Lopez Elizabeth Lowerison Elizabeth Marquez Lauren Mitchell Rosalyn Modeliste Allisha Nazareth Edward Nazareth Sandra Nazareth Maricel Olvera Martha D. Ortiz Michele Palombo Wendy Pangindian Winston Pascual Donna Patch Jennifer Patten Jaquelina Patti Patricia Perez David Phung Erisa Pooee Steve Porter Gigi C. Portugal Paul Pourzia

Karen Provin Sherry L. Rafters Christopher Rama Denzil Ramdhanie Richard Rivera Dottie Rudinica Ana Salinas Isabelo Salva Angela Salva Alia Schiltgen Ernesto Segura Christine Serra-Harris John Singh Lorraine Smith Madhu Subherwal Lisa Takata Remer Tangoan Keith Tate, III Terry D. Thomas Steven Thompson Beryl Tokunaga Alan Torqueza Wynne Torqueza Mei Tsai

Cesar Valle Bao Vu Lani Walker Laura Wilhelm Yasmin Yap-Mariano Tiffani Zanelli

FRIEND $50+ Mei Amano Kent Amano Arlene Amigable Ashley Archuleta Aley Arredondo Jacqueline Ayres Lauren Ayres Marnie Bay Marisa Bay Kyomi Bolender Danielle Boujikian Josephine Boyon Caroline Cabilogan Felicidad Cabuena Cathrine Cainglet

Thelma Carbonell Luzviminda B. Cartera Bobbie Chan Arliene P. Chang Elizabeth Cinco Priscilla Ednilao Michael Hanson Corrine Hidalgo Tokiko Imai Lynn Jagger Lisa A. Kiyohara Blanca Lardizabal Craig Leach Vivian Lee Devi Legaspi Susan Lieu Liza Lumanlan-Domingo Matthew Morales Sanjeshni Murphy Erica J. Musto Nooshin Naghsheh Sophia Neveu Sue-Ann Nouchi Eliza Oliveros

Melissa O’Malley Pat Quan Sophia Ramirez Maria Rangel Cora Roa Dani Rodriguez-Brindicci Laura Tweedt Roybal May Santos Rinnah T. Sapitanan Vilma H. Sapitanan Jamie Schneider Kathleen Sheridan Schumm Khalid Shariff Manette Sinkus Richard Tejada Shelly Trites

RETIREE Betsy Biggins Kathryn Braasch Patty Drew Bert Stewart

IN-KIND DONATIONS BENEFACTORS

CONTRIBUTORS

Ruth and Harv Daniels Lesley and James Foster Giuliano’s Delicatessen and Bakery Richard Huynh, MD Dawn and Bo Kaplan Los Angeles Philharmonic Colleen and James McKinnell, MD MS Rouse Co, Inc. Newport Printing Solutions Palos Verdes Golf Club Diana and Mark Pfeil Roclord Studio Photography Laura and Marc Schenasi Aileen Takahashi, MD, and Charles Spenler, MD

Valerie and Chris Adlam BeachLife Festival Brainstorm Productions Center for Learning Unlimited Captain Kidd’s Fish Market & Restaurant Amie and Erik Chessmore Deidre Davidson Photography Michael Emenhiser Regina and Dan Finnegan Judith Gassner Carra Graziadio and Jonathen Lund Eve and Rick Higgins Song and David Klein Helaine and Steve Lopes Mehrnoosh Mojallali Cessie and John Moody Mychal’s Learning Place Julia Parker, Boisset Collection

Primo Italia R10 Social House Riviera Mexican Grill Dolly and Mark Rouse Marianne Sfreddo Sandy VandenBerge Neal Verga Vic and Lyndsey Yang Vincent Rios Creative, Inc.

FAL L 2 023 | PATR ON S 69

Th e L ast Wo r d

“ONE’S NAME AND INTEGRITY ARE AMONG LIFE’S MOST PRECIOUS POSSESSIONS.” — CRAIG LEACH

70 PATR ON S | FALL 2 02 3

NONPROFIT ORGANIZATION U.S. POSTAGE

40

3330 LOMITA BLVD. TORRANCE, CA 90505 310-325-9110 WWW.TORRANCEMEMORIAL.ORG

PAID

PERMIT NO. 381 TORRANCE, CA

YEARS

40

YEARS

NOVEMBER 28 - DECEMBER 3, 2023 Located in the white tent at Skypark Drive and Medical Center Drive

40 YEARS

Enjoy beautifully decorated holiday trees, boutique, food court and local entertainment.

Public Exhibit – Boutique Shopping Tuesday, November 28 ...............................1:30 - 3:30 pm Wednesday, November 29 ........................... 10 am - 8 pm Thursday, November 30...............................10 am - 8 pm Friday, December 1 ................................. Closed to Public Saturday, December 2 .................................10 am - 8 pm Sunday, December 3 ...................................10 am - 4 pm $5 General Admission. Children 5 and under are free.

Senior Days – Free Admission

GIVING OPPORTUNITIES

Heroes Tree

Honor your community hero to be recognized on the Heroes Tree in the Lundquist Tower Lobby.

Wednesday, November 29 ........................... 10 am - 2 pm

Donation levels: $5,000 • $2,500 • $1,000 • $500 • $250 • $100

Thursday, November 30...............................10 am - 2 pm

Proceeds to benefit Emergency Department Campaign

$100 minimum donation per honoree

Ticketed Events

Torrance Police & Fire Departments

Tuesday, November 28 ................................. Fashion Show Friday, December 1 .................................................... Gala Call 310-517-4703 for further information or to make a reservation.

3330 Lomita Blvd., Torrance, CA 90505

Toy Drive SATURDAY, DECEMBER 2 FREE ADMISSION ALL DAY with a new, unwrapped toy.