Adventist Health White Memorial

You’ve been blessed with unique talents and skills. How do you use them to make a difference?

“So then, as we have opportunity, let us do good to everyone.” - Galatians 6:10

Join host Japhet De Oliveira for an inspiring conversation with Erasmo Cortez, our Administrative Director for Grants, as they discuss growing up in a large family, facing financial struggles, and the importance of faith, forgiveness, and building others up. Listen here: ahlink.org/4dPUl9Z

Vitamins and minerals are essential to help our body function, but the pharmacy’s supplement section can reveal a confusing alphabet of options. Read the blog to learn what to take, why it helps and how to get these essential nutrients through your diet.

Decoding vitamins to help your body function better Supplements can reveal a confusing alphabet of options. Learn what to take and why it helps.

Join host Japhet De Oliviera for an insightful conversation with Camie Overton, Operations Executive at Adventist Health Columbia Gorge, as they discuss the beauty of the Columbia Gorge, developing future leaders, the impact Adventist Health has in the community and the power of hope. Listen here: ahlink.org/4bT1rJ5

Chlorine keeps germs and bacteria out of pools, hot tubs and water parks to protect you from illness and infection. But it is also a chemical irritant, so overexposure can result in a mild chemical burn known as chlorine rash.

If you have chlorine rash, you might experience dry, chapped skin with red, swollen patches and painful itching or burning sensations.

It’s especially prevalent in people with sensitive skin or those who have repeated exposure, such as swimming in a chlorinated pool many days in a row. Simple steps such as bathing right after you swim can prevent the condition.

Visit ahlink.org/3oXGaec to learn more about preventing and treating chlorine rash and other skin conditions that come from pools.

CA Bridge, a statewide program designed to improve the model of substance use treatment, is deployed at 19 of Adventist Health’s California hospitals. See how the Ukiah Valley program implementation has been a shining success.

Establishing new models to navigate substance use treatment | Adventist Health CA Bridge, a statewide program designed to improve the model of substance use treatment, is deployed at 19 of Adventist Health’s California hospitals. In Ukiah Valley, program implementation has been a shining success.

We are proud to announce that we have added more robotic surgery options for patients who require spine surgery. Led by Dr. Mohsin Fidai, the new Mazor Robotic Guidance System allows our patients to receive precise, minimally invasive spine surgeries that reduce the need for X-rays, minimize pain, and greatly improve recovery time. Through procedure simulations, surgeons can create a personalized care plan before the patient even enters the operating room.

Adding this robotic surgery option is another step that showcases how Adventist Health White Memorial is a leading hospital for new and innovative surgical procedures in the Los Angeles area. Thank you to Dr. Fidai and the entire spine surgery team who continue to push for more advancements, improving care for our community. Learn more about our robotic assisted surgery program https://ahlink.org/3Y4BMsW

AdventistHealth.org/MFidai

Chlorine keeps germs and bacteria out of pools, hot tubs and water parks to protect you from illness and infection. But it is also a chemical irritant, so overexposure can result in a mild chemical burn known as chlorine rash.

If you have chlorine rash, you might experience dry, chapped skin with red, swollen patches and painful itching or burning sensations.

It’s especially prevalent in people with sensitive skin or those who have repeated exposure, such as swimming in a chlorinated pool many days in a row. Simple steps such as bathing right after you swim can prevent the condition.

Visit ahlink.org/3oXGaec to learn more about preventing and treating chlorine rash and other skin conditions that come from pools.

If you’ve dealt with chronic pain, you know how disruptive and disheartening it can be on both your physical and mental health. Studies have shown that chronic pain puts you at a higher risk for mental health disorders, including severe anxiety, depression or substance use problems. Read more about the connection between pain and mental health and how to manage symptoms.

Chronic Pain and Mental Health: What’s the Connection? | Adventist Health Studies have shown that chronic pain increases your risk of mental health disorders such as depression and anxiety, and vice versa. Fortunately, many treatments can effectively reduce pain and mental health symptoms at the same time.

We can all use more smiles. It’s a universal language that speaks kindness without saying a word.

“A joyful heart makes a cheerful face, but when the heart is sad, the spirit is broken.” - Proverbs 15:13

What an incredible evening we had at Pez Cantina, graciously hosted by Chef Bret Thompson. This VIP event was a heartfelt thank you to our early sponsors and supporters whose generosity will drive the success of our upcoming gala on October 20th. Every dollar raised will fuel our mission to expand access to care by providing more health services to more people.

Now is the perfect time to join us in offering more health, wholeness and hope in East Los Angeles and Montebello. Click the link to learn more about our Gala https://ahlink.org/4cshOwE

Join host Japhet De Oliveira as he sits down with Jayant Eldurkar, the chief medical officer at Adventist Health Columbia Gorge for an engaging discussion around his love for fountain pens, the importance of listening, engaging with others and embracing the unexpected in life. Listen here: ahlink.org/3yxb5Th

No matter where you're trying to stay cool despite this record-breaking heat wave, it's important to look out for heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Dr. Vijay Krishna is an Adventist Health family medicine physician in the Central Valley, where triple-digit temperatures are common. Check out his tips for keeping everyone safe in his community and yours — starting with staying hydrated!

A Guide To Preventing Heat Exhaustion & Heatstroke | Adventist Health High temperatures and extended sun exposure lead to severe dehydration, heat exhaustion and heatstroke. Keep an eye out for these warning signs and what to do.

We have named Sam Leonor as our new chief mission officer, effective July 1, 2024. In this important position, Sam will play an integral role in ensuring that our mission and deeply cherished values are woven into every facet of our strategic planning and day-to-day operations.

Sam previously served as our mission identity and spiritual care executive for the past five years.

“It genuinely warms my heart to have Sam step into this role, as I truly believe he is remarkably suited for the position,” said Kerry L. Heinrich, our president and CEO. “Sam’s ability to inspire and lead with kindness, respect and collaboration reflects his genuine commitment to the well-being of our associates and patients.”

To read more, please visit ahlink.org/3zyOOEU.

Sometimes just what the doctor ordered is simple kindness. Adventist Health White Memorial RN Cindy Lew organized a Share the Warmth campaign in her ICU this past winter asking for blankets and umbrellas for our patients in need. The winter wish list was designed to combat the California winter cold and rain.

Alongside her fellow nurses, Paola Parra Vazquez and Amanda Rodriguez, Cindy began her charity campaign with a simple flyer in the ICU. However, word quickly spread and before she knew it there were blankets and umbrellas being delivered across units throughout the hospital. “The generosity of my colleagues is really what stands out for me,” explains Cindy. “We all went into this with the goal to help others, and never saw how it would feel when our co-workers started helping us.”

The ICU team reached their goal and beyond in just one short month with a substantial supply of blankets and umbrellas that were collected and then distributed by our own Social Worker Lilian Saldana Lopez. Patients and families received the blankets and umbrellas based on need and Cindy heard that many single parent households as well as some unhoused families received the items.

A small act of kindness that began with a simple charitable request suddenly spread like the folds from an umbrella, and as warm as a soft blanket. Thank you, Cindy Lew.

Do you know a hero who works at Adventist Health White Memorial Los Angeles or Montebello? You can nominate them for the Heroes Award using this form: adventisthealth.org/AHWMHeroesNomination

Join host Japhet De Oliveira as he sits down with Heather Thompson, the patient care executive at Adventist Health Tillamook, for an enlightening conversation about her deep roots in the hospital, the joy of running, the power of intentional presence and fostering a culture of kindness for generations to come. Listen here: ahlink.org/4dQtg6G

Phones keep us connected with our teens, but they can also have a negative impact on their mental health. More screen time and social media use can lead to an increase in depression, negative body image, poor-quality sleep and stress. If you’re wondering how to help your teen set healthy boundaries with screens over the summer, visit ahlink.org/3OpWFIT for tips.

Phones keep us connected with our teens, but they can also have a negative impact on their mental health. This concern has prompted the U.S. Surgeon General to urge Congress to mandate warning labels on social media platforms. More screen time and social media use can lead to an increase in depression, negative body image, poor-quality sleep and stress. If you’re wondering how to help your teen set healthy boundaries with screens over the summer, visit ahlink.org/3OpWFIT for tips.

Donate and help save lives at our blood drive!
Thursday, July 11, 2024 from 7 a.m. - 1 p.m.
Adventist Health White Memorial, 1720 E Cesar E Chavez Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90033
Schedule your life-saving appointment at ahlink.org/3tvri5E
We are proud to be hosting a community blood drive in partnership with the Red Cross. Donors will receive a Red Cross umbrella and digital Fandango movie ticket after successful blood donation.
Day-of before your appointment, streamline your donation experience and save up to 15 minutes by visiting RedCrossBlood.org/RapidPass to complete your pre-donation reading and health history questions.

Summer camp drop-offs. Packed lunches. Play dates. Bedtime routines. Let’s face it: You’re busy. But while caring for your child is important, focusing on your own well-being is just as vital. Plus, when you lead by example, your kids will learn the importance of caring for themselves, too! Try these three tips to kick-start your self-care routine over the summer. Visit ahlink.org/4aenKrk for more simple self-care ideas.

Summer camp drop-offs. Packed lunches. Play dates. Bedtime routines. Let’s face it: You’re busy. But while caring for your child is important, focusing on your own well-being is just as vital. Plus, when you lead by example, your kids will learn the importance of caring for themselves, too! Try these three tips to kick-start your self-care routine over the summer. Visit ahlink.org/4aenKrk for more simple self-care ideas.

You may still schedule their appointments and drive them to the medical office, but you can encourage your teenager to begin managing their own health and wellness. That can start with your son or daughter’s annual check-ups, where a parent may be asked to leave the exam room. Learn more about what to expect at these appointments.

What to Expect at Your Teenager’s Check-Ups | Adventist Health You may still schedule their appointments and drive them to the medical office, but you can encourage your teenager to begin managing their own health and wellness. That can start with your son or daughter’s annual check-ups, where a parent may be asked to leave the exam room. Learn more about wha...

Love matters. Share some today — you can brighten someone else’s day and warm your own heart in the process.

“Love is patient and kind; love does not envy or boast; it is not arrogant or rude.” - 1 Corinthians 13:4

Many people who are struggling with their mental health aren’t getting the help they need because they’re uncomfortable talking about it. This can be especially true for men and teens, including those who are LGBTQ+, who are six times more likely to experience symptoms of depression than non-LGBTQ+ identifying teens. Support from family and friends can make a difference. Read our blog for red flags to look for and tips to have an open, compassionate conversation with a friend or loved one.

Mental Health Red Flags: Recognize & Respond, Mindfully | Adventist Health Learn to spot mental health red flags early. Recognize signs in teens and adults, start conversations, and support those who may need help.

Many people who are struggling with their mental health aren’t getting the help they need because they’re uncomfortable talking about it. This can be especially true for men and teens, including those who are LGBTQ+, who are six times more likely to experience symptoms of depression than non-LGBTQ+ identifying teens. Support from family and friends can make a difference. Read our blog for red flags to look for and tips to have an open, compassionate conversation with a friend or loved one about mental health and getting help.

Mental Health Red Flags: Recognize & Respond, Mindfully | Adventist Health Learn to spot mental health red flags early. Recognize signs in teens and adults, start conversations, and support those who may need help.

Join host Japhet De Oliveira for a fascinating conversation with John Hay, Marketing and Communication Manager at Adventist Health Tillamook, about the fun of artificial intelligence, the importance of humor and creating a monologue of your life. ahlink.org/3wxAgnX

Men’s Health Month is a great time to make sure you or the men in your life make health and well-being a priority by scheduling important screenings and making healthy lifestyle decisions. The primary care provider you see for checkups can help you with any screenings you need and suggest additional tips for experiencing your best health. To find a provider or schedule an appointment, visit AdventistHealth.org/Doctors.

A Milestone for our Cath Lab: 200 TAVR Procedures! One patient who entered the Cath Lab on Wednesday, June 5, for a Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR) procedure had no idea that this milestone moment in their life was also a milestone for Adventist Health White Memorial. Dr. Eric Bansal performed our 200th TAVR procedure, marking a significant achievement for our Cath Lab, which began minimally invasive aortic valve replacement procedures back in 2018 with Dr. Sarkis Kiramijyan and Dr. Eli Capouya.
The entire TAVR team gathered to celebrate this milestone. Thank you to everyone in the Structural Heart program who continually contribute to advancements in minimally invasive procedures that keep our patients' hearts healthy without major surgery. If you want to learn more about the Structural Heart program, please call 323-307-8513.

If you are expecting, you have a lot on your mind as you plan for the future. One important aspect of your baby’s arrival is finding a pediatrician. This provider is a key partner in charting a course for a healthy childhood, so it’s crucial to find the right fit for your growing family from the beginning. Try these tips and visit AdventistHealth.org/ChildWellness to start your search.

Are you a man who puts his own health at the end of the “to do” list? You may even skip going to the doctor when you know you should. We all need regular medical checkups, even when we’re feeling fine. It’s important to see your provider on time, because health problems, such as high blood pressure, often don’t cause symptoms at first. Getting screened is the best way to catch health issues early, when they may be easier to treat. Check out a few more tips to help you experience your best health at ahlink.org/3ULLtL1.

Men's Health Month: Experiencing Your Best Health | Adventist Health In honor of Men’s Health Month in June, take a look at our tips on how to experience your best health. These tips can show you how to begin.

Some encounters happen by chance, while others are so forceful and touched by destiny that you can’t help but look up at the sky and say, “Thank you, God.” Certified Nursing Assistant Patricia Figueroa and Parking lot attendant Mario Cortez now share a divine connection that not only changed their lives but actually saved Mario’s.

In May 2024, our hero Patricia was arriving a little earlier in the day since it was Nurses Week and there were several events planned for the celebration. As she walked up the stairs from the lower parking lot 10, she thought she could hear someone choking and gasping for breath. She immediately picked up her pace. Her instincts as a nursing assistant for 25 years, all at Adventists Health White Memorial, were spot-on when she arrived at the top of the stairs and saw Mario on his back, already turning blue, with his frantic co-workers desperate for help.

Patricia without hesitation sprung into action with Basic Life Support (BLS) skills, a training that she had just taken a refresher course the previous week, administering the Heimlich maneuver on Mario. Unable to dislodge the obstruction, Patricia switched tactics according to her BLS training and began delivering sharp back blows, eventually a small piece of breakfast pastry shot from Mario’s throat. Now that Mario was able to speak and breathe easier, Patricia remained in nurse’s mode, making sure Mario was steady and even giving him a water bottle from her own packed lunch.

While some may find this story a supreme stroke of luck for Mario, Patricia is very quick to counter that nothing happens by chance. “This is how the day was meant to start,” states Patricia. “Every morning before I come to work, I pray this little prayer: Have God use me to help my patients in whatever happens throughout the day.”

While Patricia admits to feeling a little overwhelmed and shaken that morning after helping Mario, the lasting connection has remained a real gift. Now, when Mario and Patricia share a glance across the parking lot, they know they were destined to meet that one morning; in fact, Patricia even prayed for it.

Do you know a hero who works at Adventist Health White Memorial Los Angeles or Montebello? You can nominate them for the Heroes Award using this form: adventisthealth.org/AHWMHeroesNomination

Join host Japhet De Oliveira for a lively discussion with Terry Johnsson, Mission Integration Executive at Adventist Health Portland, as they discuss his time in the military as part of the President's Honor Guard at the White House, the importance of believing in oneself and the value of getting out of one's comfort zone. ahlink.org/3QGuLdp

We’re honored to share that Adventist Health White Memorial was named a Best Regional Hospital for Equitable Access by U.S. News and World Report. We’re among only 53 hospitals recognized for providing high-quality care to underserved populations.

Thank you to our talented and compassionate physicians, nurses, residents, associates, board members and volunteers who go above and beyond to serve our patients and community. Congratulations!

Learn more: bit.ly/EquitableHospitals

Together, you and your child can make sure to have healthy smiles for years to come. Learn how: ahlink.org/3NPt0Kl

Follow these tips from our dentist Dr. Bijal Mehta with your son or daughter to take great care of your teeth and mouths. Because nothing is sweeter than a child’s smile!

Congratulations to Dr. Lee at Adventist Health Lodi Memorial on completing his 1000th robotic surgery! He is held in high regard for his expertise and passion for patients that come into his care. Please help us congratulate the team on reaching this major milestone!