Issue link: http://digital.copcomm.com/i/670198
PATRONS | Spring 2016 3 Witnessing the EXPANSION of a LOC AL GEM I have practiced general dentistry in the South Bay for more than 46 years. My wife Kirsten and I have been very fortunate to also grow up on the Peninsula and attend local schools. Kirsten graduated from Miraleste High and I graduated from Palos Verdes High a few years apart. We both attended the University of Southern California's undergraduate program. I then received my doctorate in dental surgery from USC, and Kirsten her DDS from University of the Pacific Arthur A. Dugoni School of Dentistry in San Francisco. Over the years we have seen many changes to the area, mostly good. One of the gems of our community is and has been Torrance Memorial Medical Center. e growth and expansion of the hospital campus has been phenomenal, especially the recent opening of the Lundquist Tower. e current improvements and changes to the existing facility are very exciting as well. Several years ago a good friend and longtime patient, Dr. Tom Simko, approached me and asked if I would be interested in serving on the Torrance Memorial Foundation Board. I was very flattered and agreed. Little did I realize at the time that this would turn out to be one of the most rewarding experiences of my professional career. It has been a pleasure to meet and interact with so many fine people, several of whom are my patients, in support of the hospital. A few months ago, after touring the new tower and participating in various celebrations of its opening, I unexpectedly found myself on the other side of the wall, so to speak, as a patient. Nothing like being on the inside to really appreciate such an amazing place. e physical facility is state of the art and the staff is well-trained, efficient, and very friendly. Fortunately, my visit was short and ended well. Just a few weeks ago I had the opportunity to once again visit this incredible new tower as a very close friend had an emergency, which required a couple days stay. We visited our friend during this time and again were very impressed with all aspects of the hospital. As longtime residents of the South Bay and health care professionals, Kirsten and I feel very strongly about the importance of investing in the future and health of our community. Several years ago we became patrons of the hospital, as did Kirsten's late parents, and we continue to support the growth and advancement of Torrance Memorial Medical Center. Richard K. Rounsavelle, DDS General Dentistry Board Member, Torrance Memorial Foundation BOARD NOTES "One of the gems of our community is and has been Torrance Memorial Medical Center. e growth and expansion of the hospital campus has been phenomenal, especially the recent opening of the Lundquist Tower."