Issue link: http://digital.copcomm.com/i/883365
8 | PULSE Fa l l 2 0 1 7 H E A LT H L I N KS O n the heels of the announcement made in May about Torrance Memorial Medical Center's alignment with the Cedars-Sinai Health System, Torrance Memorial leadership, elected officials from throughout the South Bay and community members gathered on an early morning in June to learn more history-making news. Philanthropists Melanie and Richard Lundquist announced the donation of $32 million to establish a Neuroscience Institute and an Orthopedic and Spine Institute at Torrance Memorial. e contribution, combined with the Lundquists' previous contributions of $68 million to the hospital, gave Torrance Memorial the distinction of receiving $100 million from a single donor—the largest known contribution to a nonteaching/research hospital in the United States. "When paramedics respond to an emergency, they will most likely transport you to your local hospital. It's critical that as a society we build the expertise, training and medical staffs of our local hospitals and not focus philanthropic dollars solely on the major teaching and research institutions," says Melanie Lundquist. "We are committed to Torrance Memorial Medical Center, which is extraordinarily well run and has been providing valuable medical care to South Bay communities for more than 90 years," Melanie continues. "What started out as a local community hospital has, through strong leadership, an exceptional medical staff, financial stability and philanthropy, become a highly regarded regional medical center. Our commitment of $100 million is intended to send a clear message both locally and nationally— support the hospitals in your communities and help make them better." The Lundquists' donation will allow Torrance Memorial to expand orthopedic, spinal, neurosurgical and neurological capabilities and recruit surgeons in these specialties. The hospital also intends to establish new ambulatory locations for orthopedic and spine medical ser vices, reducing the need for patients to leave the South Bay. "Our orthopedic total joint replacement program has made great strides in providing a safe and pleasant hospital experience for our patients. is donation will enhance our ability to deliver outstanding and forefront joint replacement, spine and fracture care right here HISTORIC GIFT A $32 MILLION DONATION FROM THE LUNDQUISTS WILL ADD NEUROSCIENCE, ORTHOPEDIC AND SPINE INSTITUTES WRITTEN BY COLLEEN FARRELL Melanie and Richard Lundquist join Barbara and Mark Lurie, MD, and Craig Leach, president and CEO, Torrance Memorial Medical Center, on stage after the Lundquists announce their $32 million donation and the renaming of the Cardiovascular Institute in honor of Dr. Lurie.