LLUCH Patient Participates in Family Fitness Fun 5K

LLUCH patient and amputee Adrian Grajeda, 11, participated in the “Family Fitness Fun 5K and Expo” on Sunday, May 3 at the Burrage Mansion. Grajeda led the group of participants at the starting line during the inaugural event organized and sponsored by the Big Hearts for Little Hearts Loma Linda Guild. In October 2013, Adrian was injured when a car drove through a fence in the schoolyard where he was playing. Only 10 years old at the time, he was originally taken to a local hospital in Palm Desert, but was later transferred to Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital for specialized care. His injuries led to the partial amputation of his right leg. Now wearing a prosthetic, Adrian is able to be as mobile as any other 11-year-old, with an exceptional interest and talent in soccer. Dixie Watkins, president of the Big Hearts for Little Hearts Loma Linda Guild said that LLUCH takes the best possible care of sick and critically injured kids, like Adrian. “But we really want to keep kids healthy,” she said. “It was amazing to see so many kids and their families out here being active and having fun.” In addition to the 5K run/walk through the streets of Redlands, there was a myriad of things for kids and parents to do, including an adventure course where kids were guided through activity stations like golf, tennis, hula hooping and crafting. Over 25 exhibitors also provided activities and information to the nearly 300 event attendees. Before participating in the 5K, Loma Linda University Medical Center (LLUMC) CEO, Kerry Heinrich presented Grajeda with a New England Patriots jersey signed by Tom Brady. “Seeing Adrian running in the 5K is an inspiration not only to just kids, but everyone,” said Heinrich. “He’s faced challenges that many of us could never imagine. I commend him and his family for the positive message they portray that anything is possible.” Grajeda was one of approximately 200 runners who participated in the 5K at the Burrage Mansion. Heinrich continued, “I appreciate the Loma Linda Guild for organizing such a great event that encourages families to get out of the house and be active together.” Since its inception in 1999, the Loma Linda Guild has raised nearly $1.4 million for LLUCH – most recently $250,000 was donated during the 22nd annual Foundation Gala in March. The Guild remains committed to supporting the children hospitalized at LLUCH by developing programs and projects that address the critical needs of these children and their families.