LLUCH Celebrates 20 Years of Success

Children of all ages and their families are invited to take part in a free outdoor family movie, games, and a fireworks finale on Sunday, Nov. 10, to celebrate the 20th anniversary of Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital. The festivities, open at no cost to the public, will be held from 4 to 8 p.m. at the Loma Linda University Medical Center Lawn, 11234 Anderson St., Loma Linda. Participants are encouraged to bring blankets, chairs, and a picnic basket to watch the family movie at 6 p.m. “It’s hard to believe that it’s been 20 years since our region has been blessed by the opening of Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital,” LLUCH Administrator Zareh Sarrafian said. “Over the last two decades, our hospital has had a tremendous impact on the lives and health care of our children. On behalf of our doctors, nurses, and staff, I would like to thank all our patients, families, and supporters for entrusting us to provide world-class care to the most precious people in our lives,” he said. Among the activities in store for the event include hot-air balloon rides, exhibits, and a petting zoo. Wholesome food will be offered for sale by food vendors. LLUCH opened 20 years ago as the only facility of its kind in the Inland Empire, with 275 beds and one of the world’s largest newborn intensive care units. The cost of building the hospital was $36 million. Since then, LLUCH has developed into a leading medical center focused on the health of the smallest, most vulnerable, and sickest patients. Now with 348 beds, it remains the only dedicated children’s hospital in a four-county region—Riverside, San Bernardino, Mono, and Inyo counties—with a population of about 4.5 million. LLUCH has pioneered and continues to lead in the area of infant heart transplantation, and has received acclaim for its many programs to treat pediatric patients, including proton treatment for cancer, trauma care, physical rehabilitation, intensive and acute care, and organ transplants.