Year: 2024

On October 22 the La Cañada Flintridge Orthopaedic Guild (LCFOG) held their Book & Author Luncheon, celebrating 67 years of service to LuskinOIC! We are grateful for the volunteer hours served and funds raised by the Guild throughout the past six decades. 

The annual Book & Author Luncheon is one of their biggest fundraisers and this year’s event, which was held at the La Cañada Flintridge Country Club, raised over $25,000 through their silent auction and book sales. 

Attendees heard from best-selling author and business coach Luis Dolan,  New York Times best-selling novelist J. Ryan Stradal, and Frans Vischer, a world-renowned illustrator. 

Although our wonderful patient ambassador Ramses was unable to attend, we’d still like to thank him, his mother, Yereni, and the Active Life team for allowing us to share his inspiring story with all attendees! LuskinOIC Foundation staff provided updates on the latest developments, including the fitting of a higher performing prosthetic arm. 

The LuskinOIC Annual Swing for Kids Golf Tournament achieved a remarkable milestone this year by raising more than $300,000, surpassing the Tigner & Gibson $100K Match Challenge.

The event brought together 126 golfers, 30 sponsors and partners—prominently featuring the Shah Family as Presenting Sponsor, six patient ambassadors, and 60 volunteers at the beautiful Virginia Country Club. This year also marked a record-breaking achievement with $45,000 raised during Stand for Kids.

Proceeds from the tournament directly benefit the LuskinOIC Care for Kids Fund, which supports various departments within the Institute.

Tournament chair Dan Madden expressed gratitude, stating:

“We are grateful to all of our sponsors, partners, and golfers for their generosity—especially Roopal and Bharati for returning for their eighth year as presenting sponsors!

As guests enjoyed an extraordinary culinary experience, the event also honored the LAPD Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) team with the Fox Family Community Inspiration Award.

Dr. Scaduto also acknowledged Madden’s efforts, saying:

“I’d like to thank Dan Madden for chairing the event and the entire committee for organizing another successful and truly enjoyable golf tournament.

In recent weeks, LuskinOIC had the pleasure of joining our community partners from Triumph Foundation and Angel City Sports for a number of inclusive events supporting adaptive sports and the Paralympic movement.

It was an honor to support Angel City Sports’ annual Courage Weekend, celebrating Veterans and first responders. Athletes had the opportunity to try more than 10 adaptive sports throughout the two-day event. 

LuskinOIC is also thrilled to support the Rx to Play Program with the UCLA Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, which brought a group of resident physicians and researchers, including UCLA Athletics team physician Dr. Sharon Hame. 

Triumph Foundation has provided direct support to thousands of individuals affected by spinal cord injuries throughout Southern California. As a proud partner of the organization, LuskinOIC is proud to sponsor their recent 5K Superhero Fundraiser and Over the Line Adapted Baseball Tournament. We’re excited to continue our partnership.

We’d also like to invite our community to the foundation’s annual Pasadena Wheelchair Sports Festival being held Saturday November 2 at Brookside Park. Join more than 300 expected guests for an inclusive day of fun for the whole family—and participate in one of the many free adaptive sports clinics being held.

Last month, several of our older players were invited to train with the Watford FC Women’s team—an English Premier league team, incidentally owned by Elton John.

Continuing the partnership with Watford FC, in the beginning of 2025 a group of our women coaches will travel to England to observe and work with the Watford FC women’s coaches. The experience will be documented by a film crew. 

Our younger players on the girls teams are making an impact, as well! Since the start of their fall competitive season, these youth teams have made their presence felt on the pitch. So far, the teams for ages seven, eight, and nine are in first place in their respective divisions, and the girls are having a great time in the process.

Last, in case you missed it, the league was featured in the Spanish edition of the LA Times this past summer. Look for their full schedule of games online. 

We’re pleased to welcome Dr. Soroush Baghdadi, a highly accomplished pediatric orthopaedic surgeon, to the LuskinOIC team!

Dr. Baghdadi is a graduate of Tehran University of Medical Sciences, where he also completed his residency and fellowship in orthopaedic surgery. His career currently spans more than a decade, during which he has also worked to advance the field of pediatric orthopaedics through extensive published works, teaching opportunities and educational course development, and more.

Dr. Baghdadi has held prestigious fellowships at renowned institutions, including The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Montefiore Children’s Hospital, and Lurie Children’s Hospital, and is a member of several prominent organizations, including the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons and the Pediatric Orthopaedic Society of North America.

Welcome, Dr. Baghdadi!

Joanna Stover joined the LuskinOIC team this February as the Athletic Trainer in the Sports Medicine Department. She knew that she wanted to be an athletic trainer since high school, after taking a Career Technical Education course in sports medicine and volunteering in the training room. She loves working with highly motivated young athletes, and getting to see her patients back on the field is very rewarding.

For Joanna, coming to LuskinOIC meant a return to patient care after several years of teaching physical education and mental health. No two days are the same: sometimes, you’ll find her fitting braces and teaching home exercise programs to patients. Other days, she’ll be out at local high schools, handing out swag bags and meeting students to teach them about LuskinOIC’s work.

According to Joanna, the best part about working at LuskinOIC is, without hesitation, “the people.” She is so grateful for the teaching spirit of all the providers she works with—she never thought she’d learn how to read an MRI! She hopes that, by both providing gold-standard care and engaging with students, her patients will learn what athletic trainers can do to support them as they’re healing and getting back on the field, and will maybe even get inspired to pursue sports medicine along the way.

Written by Genavieve Koenigshofer. Genavieve is a Coro Fellow working with the LuskinOIC Foundation. She recently graduated from UC San Diego for Developmental Psychology and Public Policy, and she has a background in education policy and disability advocacy. Genavieve is excited to learn more about healthcare administration and how LuskinOIC helps children of all abilities reach their full potential.

We’re thrilled to share that our generous supporter QueensCare Foundation has awarded $85,000—their largest gift in our 11-year partnership— in support of Luskin Orthopaedic Institute for Children’s Trauma Care Program.

Established in 1998, QueensCare provides charitable grants to healthcare agencies serving the low-income communities of Los Angeles with the goal of alleviating healthcare disparities throughout the Los Angeles Metropolitan Area. This gift will not only support pediatric patients who endure fractures and sports injuries, but also children who come to LuskinOIC on their worst day, looking to us for long-awaited pain relief and academic-level care, no matter what their family’s financial circumstances may be.

We remain deeply grateful to the leadership of QueensCare to support our kids as they Grow Well and Play Well.

The Luskin Orthopaedic Institute for Children (LuskinOIC) hosted its 3rd Annual “Ozzie’s Spooktacular” Halloween event on October 30, 2024, bringing joy to over 550 guests, including patients, families, and volunteers. The celebration featured a variety of family-friendly activities such as a Haunted Maze, Dia De Los Muertos station, pumpkin decorating, and a 360-degree photo booth. Food trucks, including Savage Tacos and LA’s Crepes, added to the festivities, while a DJ and games kept everyone entertained.

A highlight of the evening was the costume contest, followed by a Trunk or Treat for kids and families. The grand finale included a magical performance by celebrated magician Jerry Langford. The event also welcomed special guests, including the LA Ghostbusters, students from Orthopaedic Medical Magnet High School, and St. Vincent Elementary School.

The celebration was made possible by the generous support of organizations like Starlight Children’s Foundation, the LA Ghostbusters, and LuskinOIC’s own support groups. “Ozzie’s Spooktacular” was a way for the institute to give back to children facing health challenges, creating a memorable Halloween experience for all attendees.

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Our mission to provide top-quality, whole-child care for kids and teens in the greater LA region goes beyond our pediatric orthopaedic recovery and rehabilitation services. Events like our annual Back to School drive, for instance, aim to support families by providing opportunities to make the start of each school year a little brighter, setting kids up for educational success.

The 2024 Dream Center Back to School Bash took place on July 20, and we were thrilled to partner with Los Angeles Dodgers’ pitcher Clayton Kershaw, who brought an extra level of excitement and visibility to the event. 

With a turnout of around 5,000 attendees, it was wonderful to see families from all over the region participate and benefit from the resources provided, while enjoying an afternoon of interactive activities and games. More than a dozen of our incredible volunteers provided support and an unwavering enthusiasm that made the day so special for so many families.

In addition to giving away school supplies and backpacks, as part of the event UCLA Health volunteers were also on-site offering dental, nursing, and other forms of health care. These services provided essential health check-ups and advice to ensure that children are not only academically prepared, but also physically healthy as they return to school.

The Dream Center Back to School Bash has become a cornerstone event in the community, marking the start of the school year with a spirit of generosity and support. Our participation highlights LuskinOIC’s commitment to community outreach and support, reinforcing our mission to improve the lives of children and families in need.

‍https://www.cbsnews.com/losangeles/video/dream-center-backpack-giveaway/

Events like this provide families in our community with a little relief during critical financial times—when a child is confidently prepared for school, they are more likely to succeed. 

And although we’re best known for treating children here at LuskinOIC to heal injuries and provide care for musculoskeletal conditions, our commitment to a holistically healthy childhood includes finding ways for all kids and teens in our community to have every chance to thrive in school and during extracurricular activities. (Did you know that we even sponsor a few sports teams in the area?)

How to become involved with our Los Angeles-area fundraisers

If you’re interested in contributing to this back-to-school initiative, you can easily do so by setting a reminder to check back each July to see when the next event takes place, learn how to volunteer, and discover what items can be donated.

Read more about ways to give to LuskinOIC and our community.

We also host additional Los Angeles regional fundraising drives and charity events throughout the year, including:

LuskinOIC’s Annual Book Drive

LuskinOIC’s Book Drive focuses on gathering books that will be distributed to our patients and families during LuskinOIC’s Annual Book Giveaway every March. Join us as we turn the pages of hope and opportunity, one book at a time. Together, we can empower the next generation of readers and create a brighter future for our community.

LuskinOIC’s Food Drive

Our Holiday Food Drive aims to collect essential food items to create food baskets, carefully curated with love and care by our dedicated volunteers. These food baskets are distributed during the holiday season to individuals and families facing food insecurity, ensuring that they can celebrate the festivities with joy and nourishment. If you’re interested in lending a helping hand, you can check out our wish list every November. The wish list will provide you with a list of specific items that we are in need of and will gladly accept as donations.

LuskinOIC’s Toy Drive

A wonderful annual event! As the holiday season approaches, the LuskinOIC community comes together with open hearts to donate and gather an array of new toys, each carefully chosen to bring smiles to little faces. From cuddly companions that provide comfort and warmth to educational games that foster growth and learning, and creative playsets that ignite imaginations, we curate a diverse selection of gifts to cater to every child’s interests and passions.

What’s coming up next?

Swing For Kids Golf Classic: September 30, 2024

With an action-packed shamble format—during which a team member tees off and then each additional team member plays their own ball from that position—this fun and engaging event brings  together friendly competition, community camaraderie, and a curated culinary experience all for a great cause. It’s a day on the course unlike any other—all to benefit LuskinOIC Care for Kids.

‍Learn more or become a sponsor.

Just over ten years ago, I received a call from Clayton Frech, a parent of one of Dr. Scaduto’s patients. He asked if Dr. Scaduto and I would meet with him so he could share his vision for the creation of an adaptive sports program.

His son, Ezra, was born with limb differences and Clayton realized that many kids like his son Ezra didn’t have enough access to sports

Clayton Frech laid out a clear business plan and asked for LuskinOIC’s support. AlthoughWhile we are not the largest sponsor of Angel City Sports, we’ve proudly supported its mission, one we share everyday:, to kids of all abilities and backgrounds.

In just a decade, Angel City Sports (ACS) has become the largest adaptive sports program on the West Coast, offering 200 sports clinics annually through 25 sports.

While Clayton and Ezra were building ACS, Ezra was determinedly preparing to become an elite para- athlete. At age 16, he was one of the youngest members of Team USA to compete at the Tokyo Paralympic games, and did well for his first competition. Since then, he graduated from high school, took a gap year to prepare for the 2024 Paralympics in Paris, announced he would be the first disabled athlete to join the USC Track & Field team this fall, and even walked a number of runways as a model, but mostly, he trained for three competitions in Paris: – high jump, long jump, and 100m run.

Ezra has inspired countless disabled athletes of all ages with his focus, compassion, and self confidence. He’s never let his limb differences stand in the way of his goals.

LuskinOIC will follow his progress at the Paralympics and share his journey as the games unfold.

About the 2024 Paralympics

This is Paris’ first time hosting the Paralympics and the city is still buzzing from the Olympics last month.

Some 4,400 disabled athletes from 168 countries will compete in over 100 sports. Ezra’s track and field competitions will be held at the 70,000-seat Stad de France.

Day 1 – Long Jump Finale

The nearly sold- out crowd is raucous. Ezra faces stiff competition. Each athlete is allowed several jumps, with their best score standing. Ezra’s first two jumps feel more like he’s warming up and becoming comfortable with the track. Sadly, during each of his remaining jumps, Ezra had a foot fault. Had he not faulted on his last attempt, he would have earned a bronze medal— but that’s the nature of sports.

After the meet, he’s upbeat and focused on tomorrow’s 100 meter preliminary round.

Day 2 – 100 Meter Preliminary Roun

A total of 12 runners in Ezra’s class will compete in two races. The top six scores advance to tomorrow’s final

Ezra had a bit of a slow start, but picked up his pace and finished third in his group.

Only one runner in the second group had a faster time than Ezra, putting him in fourth. He’s onto tomorrow’s final and it should be very close.

After the race, Ezra is confident, winking at the NBC camera that’s following him.

Day 3 – 100 Meter Finals

It’s a full house at Stad de France tonight. Ezra’s family seems anxious. He’s never medaled, so will this be his night??!

He’s second from the far end of the inner track. The only runner to his right sprints to the lead;, the defending champion is on his immediate right. At the 40m mark, Ezra kicks into high gear, blowing past the men on either side of him. He stretches at the end. He WINS the gold medal!

This wasn’t perhaps as stunning an upset as it seems for most of those in the know within para track and field. They have witnessed Ezra growing and becoming stronger. It was only a matter of time, and tonight was the night!

Ezra has taken the podium. The Stars and Stripes l flag stands atop the others. The national anthem of the United States of America has played. He hugs his two brothers and parents. It’s sheer joy. This young man’s commitment to training has paid off.

But now it’s time to retreat to the athletes’ village for lots of recovery, a good meal, and a warm bed. For tomorrow is Ezra’s favorite event: The high jump!

Day 4 – High Jump Final

We are incredibly proud of our patient ambassador Ezra Frech for winning gold in both the 100m and High Jump events!

Congratulations, Ezra!

Saying “goodbye” to our CFO, Lannie Tonnu, who dedicated herself to our mission for the past eight years, is challenging. Fortunately, she will continue to support us as a donor and attend our events in the future, so instead of saying “goodbye,” we can say “see you later!” Or, as Lannie herself said at her retirement BBQ, “Hasta luego!”

Living day-to-day without her guidance, grace, care, concern, empathy, knowledge, acumen, and expertise will certainly be challenging for us. We are grateful for her many accomplishments during her tenure at LuskinOIC. She implemented new accounting protocols, oversaw investments that yielded great returns, and managed the New Market Tax Credit program that generated more than $2 million for LuskinOIC. She also navigated us through COVID-19 and expanded our services while tirelessly working to enhance staff retention.

“Lannie has worn many hats,” said Dr. Tony Scaduto. “From finance, investments, and audit to compliance officer, HR, patient access, and information systems. But perhaps the most important role Lannie has played is that of friend and advisor. I can never thank her enough for those contributions.

Thanks to Lannie Tonnu, LuskinOIC’s future looks bright. Thank you, Lannie! We wish you happiness, joy, and good health throughout your retirement. We look forward to seeing you at our next event!

On April 24, LuskinOIC hosted an educational conference featuring UCLA residents and visiting professor Dr. Vish Talwalkar. Dr. Talwalkar, an expert in pediatric orthopaedics from Shriners Hospitals for Children and the University of Kentucky, delivered a lecture on “The Quest for Value in Pediatric Spine Surgery.”

Residents Dr. Eric Chang, Dr. Daniel Chiou, and Dr. Paul Walker also presented their innovative research aimed at improving surgical outcomes and patient care. This annual conference is crucial for advancing LuskinOIC’s mission of providing equitable, patient-centered care, fostering knowledge, collaboration, and new ideas to enhance treatment for children with musculoskeletal disorders.

Dr. Mike Russell, an orthopaedic surgeon and ortho-oncology fellow at UCLA, is passionate about improving global health through his work, and is currently training and serving patients at LuskinOIC. With six years of orthopaedic training, including a residency at the University of Iowa, Dr. Russell is committed to addressing healthcare disparities. His motivation stems from a transformative visit to Haiti post-earthquake where he witnessed the severe lack of orthopaedic care available to those in need. This experience highlighted the urgent need for high-quality surgical care in remote and under-resourced regions, solidifying his dedication to the field.

Dr. Russell’s next venture involves moving to Malawi, Africa, to join Cure International, a faith-based organization dedicated to rectifying healthcare injustices in the developing world, particularly in orthopaedics. In Malawi, he will focus on neglected trauma and congenital deformities, working primarily with children who lack access to surgical care. Dr. Russell plans to eventually establish a pediatric ortho-oncology practice and aims to move beyond the current standard of amputation due to the lack of prosthetic devices, and instead, build a limb-salvage practice to significantly improve patients’ quality of life.

Throughout his career, Dr. Russell has been influenced by the mentorship of Dr. Bernthal at LuskinOIC, where the commitment to providing high-quality care to under-resourced populations in Los Angeles has inspired him. His experiences with patients suffering from severe conditions without access to proper care have driven his mission. As he prepares for this new chapter, Dr. Russell emphasizes the importance of embracing one’s passions, despite challenges, and he is eager to contribute to lasting change in global healthcare through his work with Cure International and continued partnerships with institutions like LuskinOIC and UCLA.

Breaking Boundaries: James Deale Becomes California’s First Recipient of Life-Changing Gene Therapy for Hemophilia B

James Deale faced a significant health scare at the age of 22 when he underwent wisdom teeth extraction and was diagnosed with Hemophilia B, a genetic disorder resulting from a deficiency of the blood clotting protein, factor IX. For years, James grappled with regular blood infusions and the constant worry about managing his condition, particularly when traveling. However, thanks to the LuskinOIC Hemophilia Treatment Center, he has become California’s pioneer recipient of a groundbreaking gene therapy drug set to manage his disorder.

“We’re all very excited,” said Doris Quon, MD, Medical Director at the Orthopaedic Hemophilia Treatment Center. “LuskinOIC has played a great role in this therapy because we were part of the phase-three clinical trials, which was the basis for the approval of this drug.”

Since the drug’s approval more than a year ago, six prior infusions have taken place, with the upcoming seventh infusion marking California’s inaugural treatment.

With this revolutionary therapy, James will produce his own factor IX protein, eliminating the need for further infusions. “I feel very positive about this treatment,” he said. “And I think it probably will change my life significantly for years to come.”

Discover the fascinating journey of James Deale, the first Californian to receive a groundbreaking gene therapy for Hemophilia B.

In this inspiring video, learn how James’s life has transformed thanks to the innovative treatment at LuskinOIC Hemophilia Treatment Center. Hear from medical experts and James himself about the impact of this revolutionary therapy on managing his condition. Watch now to see how cutting-edge science is changing lives.

LuskinOIC Volunteers Recognized at Luncheon

On Wednesday, April 28th, LuskinOIC celebrated the outstanding achievements of over 100 talented adult and student volunteers who reached significant milestones, ranging from 100 to 3,500 hours of service. These dedicated hours were contributed through various activities, such as assisting staff, spending time with patients, fundraising, and serving as board or committee members.

The event started with heartfelt testimonials from Ortho High volunteers Isabel Marquez and Kimberly Ferreira, and then speeches from long-time volunteers, Jeffrey and Claudia Prestine. Dr. James V. Luck, Jr., the keynote speaker, spoke about the rich history of LuskinOIC and the profound impact of its volunteers, recognizing them as the backbone of LuskinOIC’s identity and work.

Four awards were presented during the ceremony: the Exceptional Dedication & Commitment Award went to Nancy Rossi and Debbie Clark for their enduring support through the Charitable Children’s Guild; the Adult Volunteer of the Year went to Danya Fatehi; and the Youth Volunteer of the Year was awarded to Rocio Gomez. To conclude the awards portion, President and CEO Dr. Anthony Scaduto honored the Prestine family—Joan, Doug, Jeff, Claudia, Lulu, and Mateo Prestine—as the LuskinOIC Family Volunteers of the Year.

Closing remarks were delivered by Board of Directors Chair Craig Ehrlich, who expressed gratitude and admiration for all the volunteers, acknowledging their pivotal role in advancing LuskinOIC’s mission to promote health equity one child at a time.

Sports fans will be thrilled with the exciting lineup at the Gala!

Making this year’s gala a truly memorable occasion, the actor, television/radio host, Emmy winner and New York Times best selling author, Mario Lopez, will emcee the event. Best known for his role as A.C. Slater on Saved by the Bell, Lopez is currently the host of the radio program, “On with Mario Lopez,” and his own boxing/MMA podcast “The 3 Knockdown Rule.”

LA Chargers Honored

We are also proud to announce that the Los Angeles Chargers will be honored with the Stand for Kids Gala Community Inspiration Award for their outstanding contributions to the community. Their commitment to creating access and opportunities that positively impact youth in under-resourced neighborhoods is truly commendable. The Chargers share a vision of a more inclusive and supportive society, ensuring every young person has the chance to thrive. It’s a privilege to celebrate their achievements at our Gala on June 8th at SoFi Stadium!

UCLA Stars Join Us

Additionally, we are excited to welcome UCLA Quarterback Ethan Garbers to join us at the Gala. Ethan will engage with attendees by throwing footballs, signing autographs, and mentoring our Patient Ambassadors during the “pregame show” at the Gala’s Kid’s Zone, located on the 50-yard line of SoFi Stadium.

Joining Ethan in the Kid’s Zone and on stage during the show are UCLA Women’s Basketball stars Angela Dugalic and Camryn Brown. They will interact with attendees and highlight our Patient Ambassadors. The Women’s Basketball Team has been a valuable partner of LuskinOIC for nearly a year, participating in events and inspiring our young patients.

To buy tickets, become a sponsor, or learn more about the 2024 Stand For Kids Gala, click here to check out the website!

Dr. Schaub to lead the Pediatric Hand and Microsurgery Center

We are thrilled to announce the addition of Dr. Timothy Schaub to the LuskinOIC team where he will lead the Pediatric Hand and Microsurgery Center. With an unwavering commitment to pediatric orthopaedic surgery and a wealth of expertise in complex limb deformity, trauma, bone and soft tissue tumors, and cerebral palsy management, the award-winning pediatric reconstructive hand surgeon brings invaluable skills and compassion to our practice.

Welcome, Dr. Schaub: Elevating Orthopaedic Care at LuskinOIC

Dr. Schaub comes to LuskinOIC after practicing for several years in the Phoenix area, most recently working at Phoenix Children’s Hospital as Section Chief of the Hand, Microvascular and Complex Wound Program. During his time in Phoenix, he developed multiple programs, including a DeNovo plastic surgery division, as well as hand and microsurgery programs. Dr. Schaub graduated from the University of Illinois Chicago School of Medicine and completed his general surgery residency at the University of Michigan before attending UT Southwestern Medical Center for a plastic surgery residency followed by a hand and microsurgery fellowship. He recently received his Executive MBA for healthcare administration and management at Arizona State University.

With his impressive experience and approach to patient care, coupled with his proficiency in advanced surgical techniques, Dr. Schaub will be an incredible asset to our team and further elevate our ability to serve children and families in need of musculoskeletal care.

Empowering Southern California’s Disability Community

LuskinOIC is steadfast in its commitment to empowering impactful organizations serving the disability community throughout Southern California. Recently, LuskinOIC had the privilege of sponsoring the inaugural Long Beach Adaptive Sports Festival hosted by the Playmakers organization. Nearly 300 athletes with disabilities gathered at Long Beach City College to participate in over a dozen adaptive sports. In collaboration with Thrive Adaptive, 25 medical students from Southern California medical schools provided first aid support and gained valuable firsthand experience within the disability community by participating alongside the athletes. You can view the recap video here. LuskinOIC also proudly sponsored the Triumph Foundation Wheelchair Sports Festival in Santa Clarita, which brought together over 500 athletes across 30 sports for a weekend of inclusive fun. Further demonstrating its commitment, LuskinOIC sponsored the fifth annual Angel City Sports Gala, featuring NBA Hall of Fame member Pau Gasol as the keynote speaker.

Learn more of how LuskinOIC is bringing together beautiful communities of all different kinds of adaptive athletes.

The radiologic technologists at LuskinOIC specialize in operating diagnostic imaging examinations on their patients. As the demographic of their patients are young children, they ensure that the process is comfortable for them, explaining the procedures step-by-step, and assuring them that they are under the best care. Not only do the department members love what they do, they also love working together and functioning as an effective team.

At LuskinOIC, the radiology staff strives for excellence, perfection, and providing the utmost care for every child, including those in underserved communities.

The Radiology team has previously received an Outstanding Clinical Site Award in Medical Imaging from the Charles R. Drew University College of Science and Health. LuskinOIC is so lucky to have such an incredible Radiology team!

Check out our Instagram featuring the Radiology team here!

Brithney has been a patient with LuskinOIC for 10 years. When she was 8 years old, she met Dr. Bernthal for a cyst removal. In 2014, a year later, her cyst had grown significantly and she had her first cyst removal surgery a few weeks later. The second surgery happened due to a fractured bone, and she needed a hip brace and walker for a year. After Brithney’s pain resurfaced, Dr. Bernthal’s team suggested that she needed chemotherapy, which she received weekly, then monthly, then every three months, and then every six months, as she was improving. However, during her senior year of high school, her pain had returned. After returning to visit Dr. Bernthal again, he found another tumor, so they proceeded with another surgery in 2021.

Half a year ago, Brithney took the opportunity to volunteer for LuskinOIC, is currently pursuing a degree in biology, and wants to become an orthopaedic surgeon. She now dances at school, participates in taekwondo, and is learning four languages. It is inspiring to see how Brithney has overcome all the physical challenges she has faced in her life, and now aspires to help others in the future.

Check out our Instagram featuring Brithney’s story here!

Alex’s Story

Water polo is Alex’s stadium to persevere and thrive. Alex had to stop playing his favorite sport due to an unexpected scoliosis diagnosis, but after LuskinOIC CEO Dr. Scaduto operated on Alex and treated his disorder, he was able to get back into the water to compete again.

In the fall of 2024, Alex will be playing water polo at UCLA as a first year. Because of the treatment he received at LuskinOIC, Alex is not only able to play water polo again, but he’s also able to enjoy surfing on the weekends with his dad and friends, helping him remain active and close to those most important to him.

LuskinOIC is committed to delivering timely musculoskeletal care to every child who needs it. Your generous recurring gift makes us your stadium to champion all children in need of healing.

Aria’s Story

Archery is Aria’s stadium to persevere and thrive. Aria was gifted a bow and arrow at an early age and her abilities quickly became clear, but soon her skills outgrew her equipment. As her family couldn’t keep up with the costs to upgrade Aria’s gear, they were grateful to use borrowed equipment. Some of the equipment was a bit heavier than she was ready for, resulting in serious injuries to both shoulders.

Aria’s injuries showed up at an awful time. She was about to shoot in the World Youth Team Trials, vying for a spot on the team to compete in Ireland, when the pain in her shoulders became too much. Aria had to lower her draw weight to beginner levels, and her entire season was a loss as she shifted her focus to rehabilitation and strength training.

Aria visited the outstanding rehab center at LuskinOIC where she began physical therapy and athletic training with her sports medicine doctor, Dr. Goldman. Under the treatment of a dedicated team of therapists led by Christine Caron, Aria was given the tools she needed to heal and prevent future injuries. Since her treatment at LuskinOIC, Aria has gotten stronger and now trains in a more purposeful, mature way. Aria has even found the strength to help earn money to pay for the costs of becoming a competitor by walking dogs, which brings her a lot of joy.

You may flip through their story here!

If you would like to donate, click here!

On March 19th, LuskinOIC’s Human Resources department hosted an Employee Appreciation Tea Party to recognize and celebrate our incredible staff’s hard work. Staff were treated to finger sandwiches, scones and other treats to enjoy with their tea. During the party, guests also participated in games, such as the office mingle where LuskinOIC’s Irma Guzman won with her dazzling social skills. Many other employees also got the chance to win raffle prizes like gift cards, a s’more maker, and an electric kettle and popcorn maker. At the end of the luncheon, everyone came together as they announced the 2023 Employee of the Year, Delores Clark. We are thrilled to be able to express our immense gratitude for each individual that has contributed to the inspiring success of LuskinOIC!

LuskinOIC employs around 220 people who serve more than 60,000 patients a year, and they each deserve recognition. Thank you to the LuskinOIC’s Human Resources team for putting together such an amazing event.

Final Training of the Year!

For over a year, LuskinOIC has hosted approximately 80 LAUSD teachers and staff from the Linked Learning Program for their professional development trainings in our Luck Family Conference Center. Last month, Linked Learning completed their final training session of the year and were welcomed by LuskinOIC Vice President Michael Sullivan. He expressed gratitude to the teachers and staff and invited them to a surprise cookout during their lunch break.

The LAUSD Linked Learning Program aims to ensure that every student has access to a high-quality, industry-relevant career pathway through an interdisciplinary program of study that integrates experiences at every educational level. Since 2023, the Linked Learning Program has funded over 12 paid internships for students from Orthopaedic Medical Magnet High School at LuskinOIC. Recently, two interns, Rocio Gomez and Selene Sandoval, joined Linked Ortho High’s Linked Learning Coach Leanne Setiarto, CTEIG Coordinator Joanna Reese, and LuskinOIC’s Director of Corporate and Community Engagement, Michael Willis, at the InterContinental Los Angeles Downtown Hotel to present on our partnership.

View the video recap here!

Over 200 guests came over to take part in all the exciting activities, from egg hunts and inflatable obstacle courses, to a 360 Photo Booth from Photo Booth Party LA and an ice cream donut truck, thanks to LA Donut Truck.

We want to extend a special thank you to the Ortho High student volunteers who formed the committee to plan and coordinate this amazing event. To make a lasting impact, nonprofits depend on volunteers who unreservedly give their talent and time to a shared cause such as this.

Check out our Instagram story!

We are thrilled to share highlights from the recent Margaret Jones Professional Conference and Family Forum, hosted by the Center for Cerebral Palsy at UCLA/LuskinOIC.

Held on March 23rd, nearly 200 attendees, including 80 clinical professionals and physical therapists, alongside patients and families from across Southern California, braved the elements to network, celebrate, and empower those affected with the world’s most common life-long disability.

Conference Speakers

The conference featured keynote speaker and renowned NIH researcher, Dr. Diane Damiano, PT, who emphasized the importance of evidence-based physical therapy in pediatric patients. Additionally, staff from LuskinOIC’s Orthopaedic Rehabilitation Center, UCLA’s Tarjan Gait Lab, and from the Center for Cerebral Palsy at UCLA/LuskinOIC, shared their latest research contributing to the advancement of care for individuals with cerebral palsy.

Resource Fair

A standout aspect of the event was our largest resource fair yet, with 15 high-impact service organizations dedicated to supporting families affected by cerebral palsy. This collective effort underscores our commitment to providing comprehensive care and resources for all children.

The mission of Zimmer Biomet is to alleviate pain and improve the quality of life for people around the world. LuskinOIC Medical Director, Dr. Mauricio Silva, joined Zimmer Biomet’s staff to lead surgeon training involving informative presentations. They also led hands-on activities where they rotated through various stations learning surgical techniques, such as techniques for managing basic fractures using castings, sawbones models, power tools and hardware.

After the workshop, the students participated in panel discussions with Dr. Silva and Zimmer Biomet staff. They hosted a Q & A session that allowed attendees the chance to ask questions and gain insight about their professional journeys, as well as Zimmer Biomet products and procedures. Students were able to hear about why they went into medicine and orthopaedics and learn more about fracture management principles.

Thank you to the Zimmer Biomet team for coordinating such an amazing event for our students!

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Speakers at the reception included Mr. Meyer Luskin, Mr. Craig Ehrlich, Mr. Michael Sullivan, Dr. Steven Dubinett, Dr. Anthony Scaduto, and Dr. Nick Bernthal. Dr. Nick Bernthal is the first Chair to have a pediatric practice.

Mr. Ehrlich hosted the reception at his award-winning home in Santa Monica, which has been featured in “ARCHITECT” and other publications for its beauty and advanced green technology. The home has won both the Decade and Citation Awards for AIA/Los Angeles. The night started with a flurry of excitement as the UCLA student mariachi band, Mariachi de Uclatlán, performed songs while food and drinks were served.

During his speech, Dr. Nick Bernthal revealed his vision for the department and discussed the alliance between LuskinOIC and UCLA. He focused on three foundational objectives:

1. Access and excellence are not competing priorities. Very few do both: LuskinOIC and UCLA Department of Orthopaedics do.
2. Innovation will always be our calling card: LuskinOIC and UCLA transform how pediatric orthopaedic practice is done.
3. Every aspect of what we do is for the patient.

The evening was a testament to Dr. Nick Bernthal’s dedication and brilliance, and we are thrilled to be a part of his journey as he continues to revolutionize the field. We at LuskinOIC extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who joined us.

The energy was electric throughout the game, and the night was filled with special moments such as:

• Our very own Renee and Meyer Luskin receiving jerseys in a heartwarming first-quarter ceremony.
• Ozzie stealing the show with a surprise jumbotron appearance!

This unique partnership is due to the Chair of the Board of Directors, Craig Ehrlich, who is a passionate supporter of women in higher education and sports. We would like to congratulate the team and Coach Cori Close on their terrific season so far.

We’re incredibly proud to have sponsored this event and to support our mission of providing expert pediatric orthopaedic care to children in need, regardless of their financial circumstances.

LuskinOIC is pleased to announce a groundbreaking partnership with the Downtown Los Angeles Soccer Club to support the club’s 450 local youth players on 23 boys and girls teams who range from young kids learning the game of soccer to high school athletes playing at the most competitive levels of club soccer.

Downtown Los Angeles Soccer Club’s primary objective is to provide a soccer club experience for young athletes, most of whom live in Los Angeles’ underserved communities. The teams are filled with passionate and skilled soccer players, but their economic reality means they do not have access to traditional clubs that cost $2,000-$5,000 per year. Through donations and volunteer coaching, the club is able to provide full scholarships to many of its players, with other families paying just $25 per month.

LuskinOIC’s partnership with the Club benefits players, coaches and the entire soccer community in Los Angeles. Through this sponsorship, LuskinOIC will fund field rentals, pay for training equipment, and expense any stipends for volunteer coaches. LuskinOIC will also provide canopies for team benches and cover the cost for hundreds of new training jerseys for the girls program. Finally, LuskinOIC will provide injury prevention and player wellness content to the players and their families through online resources and in-person presentations at the club’s training sessions.

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LuskinOIC’s International Children’s Program continues its vital work of providing free, high-quality orthopaedic care to children in need in Mexico. Established in 1962, the program offers specialized treatment through clinics at the US/Mexico border, ensuring that children receive world-class care regardless of their financial background. On November 15, Dr. Silva, LuskinOIC chief medical officer, and his medical team offered a successful clinic at Mexicali General Hospital, where children and families received much-needed support.

Sponsored by Rapiscan, the clinic extended critical medical services to dozens of children in need. Rapiscan is honored to play a part in supporting these life-changing initiatives; their partnership with LuskinOIC strengthens this mission, making advanced orthopaedic treatment accessible to children who would otherwise go without it. Together, we are enhancing pediatric orthopaedics by prioritizing exceptional patient care.

Since 1911, the Charitable Children’s Guild (“the Guild”) has been a valued, reliable partner to LuskinOIC in countless ways—from providing volunteer hours to critical financial support, and more. The Guild has always answered the call and this season their generosity can make a huge impact—with your help! In partnership with LuskinOIC, the Guild has unanimously voted in favor of an end-of-year challenge: Calling on all of our donors to step forward and make a gift as we close out 2024. The first $10,000 contributed will be doubled by the Guild! This challenge will run until December 31, 2024.

LuskinOIC is so fortunate to have such dedicated support groups. For decades, the members of the Guild and its auxiliaries continue to come through for our kids and their families. Every gift we receive helps LuskinOIC provide prosthetics, surgeries, rehabilitation, and so much more at no or little cost to so many families—you truly make a difference. The Guild challenges you to give this year-end!

Frank Paul Winnie was thoughtful and forward-thinking when he left a gift in his estate plan to LuskinOIC. He believed in LuskinOIC and the mission to ensure that all children have a chance to live fuller, healthier lives. Recently, Mr. Winnie’s estate plan came to fruition, and we received a distribution of just over $100,000 to support the LuskinOIC Care for Kids Fund, which is our greatest need, supporting various departments within the Institute. As you may know, our goal is to provide the highest quality care regardless of a family’s financial circumstances. This is so important, as 85% of our patients are uninsured or under-insured, and each year we’re seeing a growing number of patients—we’re currently up to nearly 60,000. Among those patients, we’re averaging more than 30,000 casts, 15,000 braces, and an increasing number of visitors to our Pediatric Urgent Care Center. Legacy giving helps to ensure that support continues to help the children and families who need it most. We are so grateful that Mr. Winnie planned for the future in a way that allows so many kids to benefit from his generosity.

If you are interested in learning more about our legacy society, please contact Mary Beth Perrine at mperrine@mednet.ucla.edu

My name is Genavieve, and I recently spent four weeks at the LuskinOIC Foundation as part of the Marketing Team, exploring ways LuskinOIC could connect with the Olympic and Paralympic Games while supporting other marketing initiatives to spotlight staff and events.This experience was part of the Coro Southern California Fellows Program in Public Affairs, a full-time fellowship designed to equip emerging civic leaders with the skills to make a meaningful impact in their communities and organizations. During my time here, I gained invaluable insights into nonprofit healthcare, the inner workings of a foundation, and how to uplift children of all abilities.

At LuskinOIC, community is part of everything we do. I saw the power of community in the eyes of our trick-or-treaters at Spooktacular, filled with wonder and excitement. I saw it at our Company Health Fair, watching doctors and interns alike enjoying smoothies and excitedly showing off their newly potted succulents.I saw it in Craig Ehrlich — LuskinOIC board chair, Coro Southern California honorary board member, Fellows Program in Public Affairs alumnus, and 2024 Coro Alumni Impact Award Honoree — who graciously invited me and the other Coro Fellows to his home for conversation and a home cooked meal.

Community was present among our staff as we celebrated Ezra Frech’s victory in the 2024 Paralympics, and among our dedicated volunteers who spend countless hours to keep LuskinOIC moving. And of course, I see it in the generosity of our donors, who continue to make our work possible year after year so they can see the children of our community thrive.

From pro bono care for children around the world, to supporting adaptive sports, to training the next generation of doctors—the more I learned about LuskinOIC, the more I saw this golden thread of community. Everyone in the LuskinOIC family cares so deeply about the people around them, and about making a difference for children.

I was diagnosed with an autoimmune disorder at 15, and after spending my teenage years in and out of emergency rooms, I had grown cynical about the healthcare system and its exorbitant costs. I thought it was beyond fixing. But community changes the game. LuskinOIC is a place of joy and love where all patients are met with compassion and kindness.

As I leave LuskinOIC, I take with me a profound hope for the future of healthcare and a commitment to serving my community every day. To the LuskinOIC team: thank you for inspiring me, for giving so many children a brighter future, and for showing me what’s possible when community is at the heart of everything.

At LuskinOIC, we provide specialized, expert care for children with clubfoot, a common but treatable congenital condition that affects the foot’s positioning. Our pediatric orthopaedic specialists, with extensive experience and training, offer world-class treatment through advanced methods like the Ponseti technique, which is known for its high success rates in correcting the condition. This non-invasive, gentle approach involves a series of casts and, when necessary, minor surgery to restore the foot’s proper alignment, allowing children to walk and thrive without pain or limitations.

Treating children in need for clubfoot not only transforms individual lives but also has a profound impact on the broader community. When children receive early and effective treatment for clubfoot, they gain the ability to walk, attend school, and fully participate in social and economic activities. This leads to increased opportunities for education and employment, helping to improve overall community well-being. By providing access to these life-changing services, LuskinOIC plays a key role in fostering healthier, more empowered communities—one child at a time.

This year, LuskinOIC hosted its Third Annual Ozzie’s Spooktacular in Los Angeles, welcoming more than 500 guests for a night packed with fun and excitement. Attendees enjoyed a variety of activities including trunk-or-treating, pumpkin decorating, games, a costume contest, a haunted maze, and much more. The event also featured a 360-degree photo booth and a special appearance from the Los Angeles Ghostbusters, who brought their iconic Ectomobile for everyone to see. To end the festivities, a talented magician wowed the crowd with a mesmerizing performance—the perfect way to close out the celebration!

This event was made possible through the generous support of our partners, including Starlight Children’s Foundation and community groups such as Charitable Children’s Guild, Las Madrecitas, Las Niñas, Las Amigas, Los Amigos, and La Cañada Flintridge Orthopaedic Guild. Their thoughtful donations of pumpkins, food, decorations, toys, goodie bags, candy, costumes, and more helped to ensure that every detail was perfect.

A heartfelt thank you goes out to all of our volunteers, donors, and sponsors for making this year’s Ozzie’s Spooktacular a truly magical experience for everyone involved!