Dr. Murray Brandstater Honored by Donors

The physical medicine and rehabilitation center at Loma Linda University Medical Center has been renamed to honor Murray Brandstater, MBBS, PhD, chair, physical medicine and rehabilitation (PM&R). A dedication ceremony was recently held, revealing the new name, The Brandstater Ambulatory Rehabilitation Center, which is located at Loma Linda University Medical Center East Campus. Also the founder of PM&R, Brandstater modestly expressed his appreciation of the naming honor to an intimate crowd of family, friends and colleagues. “This is an incredible honor,” he said. Brandstater also shared some of the history of the center saying, “The name on the building is one thing, but what you don’t see are all my fingerprints around the building.” Brandstater came to Loma Linda University Health in 1983, established the department of physical medicine and rehabilitation at the School of Medicine and served as chair for 30 years. Under his leadership the in and out patient rehabilitation programs were established. “He is a respected faculty member, researcher and international leader in his field,” said Richard Hart, MD, DrPH, president, Loma Linda University Health. The naming dedication was in light of a recent generous gift from an anonymous donor toward Vision 2020: The Campaign for a Whole Tomorrow, which resulted in special recognition for three Loma Linda University Health physicians, two of whom were recognized last month. Rachelle Bussell, senior vice president of advancement, Loma Linda University Health, said, “Dr. Brandstater is being recognized not just for the care that he provides, but for who he is as a person and how he provides that care in such a personal way.” The donor wished not to be recognized, but rather draw attention to the professionals who exemplify the qualities they value. In addition to Brandstater, Leonard Bailey, MD, and H. Roger Hadley, MD, were also recognized. Hadley had the honor of presenting Brandstater with a “Healing Hands” pin. Hadley informed the audience that the Healing Hands program is one that allows Loma Linda University Health patients an opportunity to write a note or say something to the institution that impressed them while they were receiving care. This program gives those who have been recognized a special Healing Hands pin. “Dr. Brandstater has always had a wonderful rapport with all of his patients,” Hadley said. “He was recognized by a patient who chooses to be anonymous.” The anonymous gift will go toward the $360 million capital campaign, Vision 2020, which is part of the construction of the new adult hospital and expanded Children’s Hospital. Beyond the Vision 2020 philanthropic campaign, additional funding for health care will come from state grants, bond financing, and cash flow from operations. Vision 2020 will also strengthen the future of education and research at Loma Linda University Health.