Author: Tyler Johnson

On December 5, LuskinOIC welcomed 24 students and three chaperones from LAUSD’s University Pathways Medical Magnet Academy (UMED) for a behind-the-scenes tour of our campus. The career-pathways visit paired quick department spotlights with Q&A sessions, allowing students to hear directly from our teams about real roles, training paths, and what it’s like to serve children every day.

After a welcome from Michael Sullivan in the Luck Family Conference Center, students rotated through the Ahmanson Foundation Fracture Center, Harbison Radiology, Urgent Care, ICP, ASC, the 4th-Floor Clinic, JVL Research, Pharmacy, and Physical Therapy. Along the way, they learned how clinicians, techs, researchers, and support staff work together to deliver world-class pediatric orthopaedic care, often to uninsured or underinsured families.

Thank you to every department that hosted a stop and shared time and expertise. Your enthusiasm made a lasting impression and may have sparked a few future careers in healthcare.

On Tuesday, December 9, LuskinOIC and California Highway Patrol once again partnered for their annual toy giveaway. The Luck Family Conference Center was transformed into a winter wonderland, where patients and community guests were greeted by Santa Claus. Tables were stocked with toys donated by generous supporters, including CHP. Every child chose a toy they loved and received a Project Sunshine craft kit, holiday meal essentials, and a few additional treats.

LuskinOIC welcomed more than 50 guests from community partners, including Gilbert Lindsay Park, MaMa’s del Sur Centro, Soledad Enrichment Action, and Volunteers of America. Families enjoyed the festivities while learning more about LuskinOIC’s mission, services, and commitment to the community.

LuskinOIC is deeply grateful to California High Patrol for their continued partnership and support. Their annual contribution to the toy drive helps create a memorable experience for patients and families during the CHP Toy Giveaway.

A Winter Wonderland in Downtown LA

LuskinOIC’s Downtown Los Angeles campus transformed into a winter wonderland for the 36th annual Toys & Joy Holiday Party, welcoming more than 1,000 patients and families, with some arriving as early as 6:00 a.m.

Star-Studded Celebration

The festivities kicked off with Ozzie the Dragon arriving aboard a SWAT BearCat, joined by celebrity guests including Keith David, Kevin Nealon, Jharrel Jerome, and many more. American Idol warm-up host Josh Randall served as MC, while DJ Amused, Nayah Damasen, and Angelino Brass filled the morning with holiday music.

Santa’s Grand Entrance

In an unforgettable moment, Santa rappelled down the Luskin Medical Pavilion wall after arriving by helicopter, courtesy of LuskinOIC’s long-time partners at the LAPD SWAT team.

Fun for the Whole Family

Families enjoyed LA Galaxy soccer darts, photos with the LA Ghostbusters and SWAT B.E.A.R., a 360° photo booth, Project Sunshine craft bags, Insomnia Cookies, holiday card-making with Project Joy Card, and much more.

The Heart of Toys & Joy

Toys & Joy ensures that pediatric patients, siblings, and under-resourced children in our community experience the magic of the holiday season. Every child went home with gifts and memories to last a lifetime.

Thank You to Our Partners

Toys & Joy is a culmination of a year-long toy collection program and is made possible by our generous donors and partners, including LA Galaxy, LA Ghostbusters, The Book Foundation, Photobooth Party LA, Hero Dental, Insomnia Cookies, Capri Sun, Joy Card Project, Project Sunshine, Angelino Brass, Mattel, Starlight Children’s Foundation, Orthopaedic Medical Magnet High School, UCLA and USC student organizations, LuskinOIC support groups, and the LAPD SWAT team.

Innovation Campaign Chairs Bowen, Childers, Feld, Jenkins, and Silletti are thrilled to announce the first gifts supporting an advanced surgical simulation lab, the first of its kind at LuskinOIC.  

The Fox, Griffiths, Riley, Schweitzer, and Stockley families, all long-time supporters of the Luskin mission, have collectively donated just over $30,000 to fund this new training facility.  

Teaching the next generation of surgeons is a top priority of the LuskinOIC and UCLA faculty. With cutting-edge haptic and physical surgical simulators, tools that bring unmatched realism to orthopaedic education, we will better prepare aspiring surgeons for the challenges of pediatric orthopaedic procedures.  

High-fidelity simulation does more than just sharpen skills; it saves lives. From precise arthroscopic procedures to complex fracture management, the tactile feedback offered by these simulators will help develop safer, more confident surgeons.  

Putting your philanthropy to work through innovative teaching technologies is core to the Luskin mission.  Thanks to these generous families, our residents and fellows will be better prepared to deliver exceptional care to children.

Four long-time supporters, the Bryson, Lichtenberger, Spenser, and Wirick families,  combined their year-end donations to contribute $100,000 toward the purchase of a new EOS scanner.   

The scanner will be housed in the new Advanced Imaging Center, located on the second floor of the outpatient medical center building. The Center will also be home to the Everychild Foundation MRI Suite.  

The EOS captures vivid 2D and 3D images while reducing a child’s exposure to radiation by up to 90%. These images help physicians better understand each patient’s unique anatomy and condition. For children who require surgery, these scanners allow our surgeons to prepare more precisely and develop highly informed treatment plans.  

We are proud to put your philanthropy to work with innovation and excellence!

We are honored to receive an estate gift in memory of Vice Admiral George Davis. His widow, Jean Carroll Davis, told us, “We are so proud to be part of something that has been so meaningful to my family, and to so many children. We have always been pleased to support LuskinOIC’s commitment to the future, and we have always fully supported the Institute growing stronger and stronger in the years to come.”

Vice Admiral George Davis honored LuskinOIC with a gift in his personal estate plan, and Mrs. Davis is pleased to direct her husband’s gift toward the Innovation Campaign. In recognition of this generosity, the lobby in the renovated Center for Sports Medicine will be named for the Davis family.

The Jean Caroll Davis family has a long and rich history with LuskinOIC. Drs. Robert L. Carroll, Mrs. Carroll Davis’ father and brother were both orthopaedic surgeons with deep ties to LuskinOIC. Her father practiced at the hospital in the 1930s and early 1940s, and her brother completed his residency here in the mid-1960s. This gift stands as a testament to Mr. and Mrs. Davis’ enduring commitment to LuskinOIC and each other.

Year-end giving to our Care for Kids Fund, which supports the day-to-day operations of each department at LuskinOIC, has yielded just over $400,000 since November 1.   

The Care for Kids Fund is a significant part of our Innovation Campaign, representing $10 million of the campaign’s $80 million goal.  

Innovation cannot succeed without extraordinary physicians, scientists, teachers, and staff. We are proud to put our donors’ philanthropic support to work for the children of Los Angeles and beyond.

Before dawn, before the patients, before the work begins, a quiet moment of preparation. Four hours of desert stretch ahead, and Dr. Scaduto reviews the day’s cases amid the hum of the aircraft cabin.

Touchdown in Calexico. The team crosses the tarmac with purpose, supplies in hand, ready to bring world-class pediatric orthopaedic care to families who would otherwise travel hundreds of miles to receive it.

A stuffed shark stands guard as Dr. Scaduto examines a young patient’s foot. In his hands: decades of expertise. In this room: a child who doesn’t have to be afraid.

Posture, alignment, possibility. A teenage athlete stands still as Dr. Scaduto assesses his spine, a routine check that could shape the trajectory of his future on and off the field.

Medicine is more than diagnosis; it’s connection. A shared laugh between doctor and patient transforms an exam room into a space where healing feels possible.

He listens. In pediatric care, this is everything, meeting a child at eye level, earning trust before making assessments, treating the whole person rather than just the condition.

Complex care requires presence. Dr. Scaduto consults with a young patient whose mobility needs are significant, her specialized chair a reminder that expertise like his doesn’t often reach communities like Calexico.

Three hands, one child. A mother steadies her son as Dr. Scaduto guides him through an exam, a portrait of the partnership between family and physician that defines LuskinOIC’s approach.

Joy, unfiltered. Behind them, X-rays glow on a monitor. Between them, laughter. This is what it looks like when a child feels seen, heard, and hopeful about her future.

Homeward bound. After a morning of back-to-back consultations, Dr. Scaduto’s smile tells the story: tired, fulfilled, already thinking about when they’ll return.

The team that made it happen. As the Calexico sky stretches wide behind them, the LuskinOIC team stands united by a shared conviction: every child deserves access to exceptional care, no matter where they live.

LuskinOIC staff and volunteers from Orthopaedic Medical Magnet High School and Los Amigos brought holiday festivities to patients at the Calexico Border Clinic. Ozzie and Santa joined the fun as every child received toys, LuskinOIC footballs, books and dolls from The Jester & Pharley Fund, and holiday crafts from Las Amigas. The International Children’s Program embodies our commitment to ensuring geography never determines a child’s access to quality orthopaedic care.

LuskinOIC closed out the calendar year by proudly supporting the 8th Annual LA Hotwheels NWBA Wheelchair Basketball Tournament, one of Southern California’s premier adaptive sports competitions. The weekend featured elite competition from programs including the University of Arizona’s National Champion Wheelchair Basketball Team, the Golden State Road Warriors, the Rancho Renegades, the Los Angeles Clippers Chairmen, with other top-ranked squads. 

Just days later—despite an epic rainstorm—our team also supported the Triumph Foundation Adaptive Sports Festival, which brought together more than 200 people with disabilities for a full day of community, movement, and resource sharing. Participants engaged in wheelchair basketball, wheelchair rugby, adapted boxing, arts and crafts, and more, all alongside service providers and community partners.

These events continue to strengthen the bridge between LuskinOIC and the broader disability community as we work to expand access, visibility, and opportunities for people with disabilities throughout Southern California.

As Disability Community Liaison for LuskinOIC and co-founder of Thrive Adaptive, Joe Holt played a key role in bringing together the necessary interdisciplinary specialists, including behavioral health professionals, lived-experience participants, MDs, and DOs who shaped WesternU’s first NICHE-MED learning module. This collaboration ensured students received a community-grounded curriculum centered on high-quality care for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD).

The NICHE-MED program began with an online module co-developed by Joe Holt, Jamie Currie, WesternU College of Osteopathic Medicine (COMP) faculty, and the Harris Family Center for Disability and Health Policy. This virtual foundation introduces essential communication strategies, sensory considerations, and clinical expectations, preparing students for deeper hands-on learning.

The Wellness Visit Workshop then brought student doctors into direct practice with patients living with autism and IDD in the Sarkaria Family Patient Simulation Suite. The workshop united DOs, MDs, podiatric faculty, disability policy experts, and communication partners. Students practiced adaptive communication, shared decision-making, and sensory-aware care in a realistic and supportive setting.

Altogether, 313 students completed the online module, and 54 students worked directly with 16 lived-experience participants. This interdisciplinary environment—rare in most medical schools—provided meaningful exposure to a patient population that frequently faces disparities in care.The NICHE-MED grant was secured through a partnership among COMP, the Harris Family Center, and Thrive Adaptive, with LuskinOIC’s strong support of Thrive Adaptive’s mission to prepare aspiring clinicians to serve people with disabilities. With two additional modules forthcoming, WesternU continues to establish a leading model for disability-inclusive medical education.

[Top photo: Paralympian Ezra Frech and Angel City Sports players]

The holidays are a season of generosity, and our annual Toys & Joy Drive is a wonderful chance to share that spirit by brightening a child’s day. From now until December 5, we’re gathering new, unwrapped toys to ensure every child at our holiday celebration feels the magic of this special time of year.

We’re looking for toys and gifts priced at about $15, appropriate for kids of any age. Games, stuffed animals, craft kits—anything fun and engaging can help make a child’s holiday truly memorable.

Contributing is simple. You can drop off a new toy at our Downtown LA location or choose a gift through our Amazon Gift List for a quick, convenient way to participate. Each donation plays a part in creating a warm, inclusive holiday experience for families in our community.

Let’s join together to make this season shin, one toy and one joyful moment at a time.

Amazon Gift List: https://www.amazon.com/registries/gl/guest-view/3PGHLKYQ1MRGD?ref_=cm_sw_r_cp_ud_ggr-subnav-share_881V1FCMT9XV8XZB821J

This year’s Holiday Food Basket Giveaway took place on Tuesday, November 25, at our Downtown LA campus. What once started as a simple act of kindness has grown into a heartfelt community tradition that continues to make a lasting impact.

For more than 25 years, our Holiday Food Basket Giveaway has been one of LuskinOIC’s most meaningful traditions, created to ensure that every patient and family in our community could enjoy the Thanksgiving they deserved. What began as a small effort to give back grew into a beloved event that brought together staff, volunteers, and community partners to support families each year.

Five years ago, the program became even more personal. Through family surveys, our team began tailoring each basket to meet the specific needs and wishes of the families we served, creating a more thoughtful and dignified experience. From pantry staples to festive favorites, each basket was assembled with care and gratitude, reflecting the compassion and generosity that define our community.

Over the years, our Holiday Food Basket Giveaway became more than an event; it became a celebration of unity, resilience, and the enduring spirit of giving. No matter what challenges our community faced, LuskinOIC families, staff, and volunteers came together to ensure that everyone could share in the warmth, joy, and togetherness that the holiday season represents.

Together, we shared gratitude, hope, and the joy of giving, one basket at a time.

On November 17, cowgirls and cowboys descended on LuskinOIC as we celebrated Mary Beth Perrine at her Retirement Hoedown. More than 200 esteemed guests joined us as we commemorated Mary Beth and her more than 36 years with the organization. The fifth floor of the Luskin Pavilion was transformed into a country western venue, featuring hay bales and signature red checkered tablecloths. Country music performed by the Country Vision Band filled the space as everyone chowed down on fried chicken and enjoyed mocktails from Curly Bartender. Attendees even got time on the dance floor, taking square dancing lessons.

Members of our Board spoke to Mary Beth’s impact and legacy, and how she has helped guide LuskinOIC to where it is today. To cap off the program, President & CEO Dr. Anthony Scaduto announced the renaming of Palm Drive to Mary Beth Perrine Way, a reminder to come into every day with the love, enthusiasm, and passion that Mary Beth always carries with her. 

We are so grateful to Mary Beth and all she has done for the organization. Her tireless and unwavering commitment to our patients and families shines through in every part of our work, and we will all do our best to build on the phenomenal foundation she has set for us.

David Luskin, a member of our Board of Directors, committed $20,000 to our new Center for Sports Medicine. It is the first major gift for the planned project, which is among the vital projects of our Innovation Campaign.  Staffed by UCLA physicians who also care for the Lakers and several UCLA teams, the Center brings world-class expertise to every child who crosses our threshold, particularly underserved youth.

We offer both operative and nonoperative care supported by physical and occupational therapists and an expert athletic trainer. The space will be modern and sleek, with additional exam rooms featuring views of the Hollywood Sign. “We are grateful for David’s continued support, financially and in the boardroom,” said Dr. Scaduto.

To complement the services in the new Center for Sports Medicine, we will be building a Sports Motion Analysis Lab with high-speed cameras, 3D motion capture, and biomechanical sensors to evaluate athletic movement and enhance recovery and performance.

[Top Photo: Center for Sport Medicine Team]

For the first time in LuskinOIC history, we have been awarded a seven-figure foundation grant. This month, the Everychild Foundation awarded us $1,000,000 to purchase our very first MRI unit. This extraordinary gift completes our $2.1 million campaign to bring state-of-the-art imaging to the children we serve.

To celebrate this monumental occasion, the Foundation team threw a party. Staff came together over cake and ice cream to congratulate each other on their contributions to the project, and Ozzie even joined the festivities. Over 89% of LuskinOIC staff made a contribution to the MRI campaign, making it one of the most successful employee giving campaigns in the nation. 

We are so grateful to the women of the Everychild Foundation for their generosity, vision, and commitment to easing the suffering of children across Los Angeles. Their belief in measurable impact and brighter futures will ensure the Everychild Foundation MRI becomes a lasting symbol of healing and hope.

To see the list of our generous staff donations, please see the fill story here: The Luskin Makes History – Luskin Orthopaedic Institute for Children

On Wednesday, November 12, 2025, the LuskinOIC community gathered in the Luck Family Conference Center for an afternoon dedicated to curiosity, reflection, and meaningful conversation. The occasion? A powerful workshop led by author and social entrepreneur John Kobara, inspired by his acclaimed book Quest.

Students, staff, and community members filled the Downtown LA campus, ready to explore themes of purpose, values, and the lifelong journey of understanding oneself. The room buzzed with energy as participants from Ortho High, local high schools, UCLA, USC, and other nearby colleges joined LuskinOIC staff for what would become an inspiring and introspective event.

An Interactive Journey Into Self-Discovery

To set the tone for the workshop, each attendee received a complimentary copy of Quest. Kobara opened the session with an engaging Q&A, offering candid insights into his writing process, what drives his work as a social entrepreneur, and the experiences that have shaped his belief in empathy, service, and continual self-inquiry.

His openness invited the audience to reflect deeply — not just on the book, but on their own lives.

Reflective Questions, Shared Stories

As Kobara guided attendees through select excerpts of Quest, he paused frequently to pose thoughtful, challenging questions. These moments of reflection encouraged participants to dig into their values, goals, and the choices that define their life paths.

But the workshop went beyond solo introspection. Attendees paired up for discussions that emphasized intentional listening and genuine connection. The result was an atmosphere of trust and curiosity, where students and adults alike shared personal insights and learned from one another’s diverse perspectives.

A Community Connected Through Conversation

Throughout the afternoon, conversations flowed effortlessly between participants of different age groups and backgrounds—a reflection of LuskinOIC’s commitment to community-building. The workshop reminded everyone that while the search for purpose is deeply personal, it is also a journey enriched by the people around us.

Leaving With Renewed Purpose

By the end of the session, participants walked away with not only a book in hand, but also new ideas, fresh perspectives, and motivation to continue their own “quests” of self-discovery.

LuskinOIC extends heartfelt gratitude to John Kobara for sharing his time, wisdom, and passion — and to all who attended this meaningful event dedicated to growth, connection, and reflection.

Palm Drive was transformed into a Halloween festival full of tricks, treats, and spooky holiday fun for this year’s Ozzie Spooktacular! Guests joined the event’s activities, featuring the Los Angeles Ghostbusters, Photobooth Party LA and their 360-video booth, and other exciting vendors. Children decorated pumpkins, participated in a candy hunt on our Everychild Foundation Playground, and left messages to departed loved ones at the ofrenda hosted by Orthopaedic Hospital Magnet High School.

Even Ozzie joined in on the fun, dressed up as the “Wizard of Oz(zie)” alongside the Tin Man and the Scarecrow!

A huge thank-you to our many volunteers and supporters who helped plan, set up, and run the event—and to those who donated candy and supplies to make it possible. The night ended with the much-anticipated “Best Trunk” award in our Trunk or Treat contest, celebrating our most creative participants!

We were so honored to host so many members of our community for such a fun-filled evening. Happy Halloween, and we’ll see you next year!

See our amazing attendees in our 360 video booth here!

Events Manager Destiny Jones and Volunteer Services and Community Engagement Manager Courtney Rojas proudly represented LuskinOIC at Los Angeles Trade Tech College’s 100th Anniversary Gala. Held on campus in the Culinary Arts building, the event featured a wonderful menu of dishes prepared by LATTC’s talented students and staff.

The evening celebrated a century of operations in Los Angeles, highlighting student stories and raising funds to enable LATTC to keep educating and uplifting people of all ages through education and technical training. Honoree and LATTC alum Herb Nadel, now a renowned architect,  shared his story of how the school was the foundation for his career. Yvonne Wheeler, president of the Los Angeles County Federation of Labor, highlighted the strong union connections across LATTC, with many graduates of the school going into the trades and becoming union members themselves.

The night concluded with a speech from student body president Destiny McLemore, who thanked supporters for making students’ dreams possible and reaffirmed the lasting impact of LATTC’s legacy in Los Angeles.

LuskinOIC was proud to support Angel City Sports Courage Weekend, a two-day celebration honoring veterans and first responders through the power of adaptive sports. The weekend began with an adapted golf clinic and nine-hole tournament at Westchester Golf Club, bringing together athletes of all abilities in a spirit of camaraderie and competition. Festivities continued at West High School in Torrance, where participants experienced wheelchair basketball, pickleball, and boccia.

LuskinOIC also joined the Triumph Foundation Over-the-Line Baseball Tournament at Miracle Field in Anaheim, where more than 30 athletes competed in an adapted three-on-three format that showcased teamwork and awarded bragging rights for next year’s games. 

As Los Angeles approaches its first-ever Paralympic Games—now fewer than 1,000 days away—LuskinOIC’s commitment to advancing adaptive sports continues to grow. Upcoming highlights include the LA Hotwheels Division I NWBA Wheelchair Basketball Tournament in Cudahy (November 7–9) and the Triumph Foundation Wheelchair Sports Festival at Brookside Park in Pasadena (November 15), which will welcome more than 300 athletes for a day of inclusive clinics and celebration of athletic excellence.

By Coro Fellow Raiyan Kalam

As my time as a Coro Fellow in Public Affairs at LuskinOIC comes to a close, I’m overwhelmed with gratitude for the past five weeks. Working alongside the Foundation to advance LuskinOIC’s mission of healing kids’ broken bones and brightening their futures has been nothing short of transformative. Under the inspiring leadership of Vice President Michael Sullivan and the direct guidance of Sr. Director of Marketing & Communications Dr. Eunha Choi, I’ve had the privilege of pouring my heart into projects that matter.

I threw myself into pitching new growth opportunities, connecting with i9 Youth Sports League and local Little Leagues to spread our mission. Setting up the official LuskinOIC GoFundMe and PayPal Giving Fund pages felt like opening new doors for kids in need. I’m especially proud of sparking a relationship with Zach Anner, a Cerebral Palsy advocate and influencer with more than half a million followers, whose passion could help amplify our cause. Contributing to cornerstone events like the 2025 Swing for Kids, which raised more than $300,000, and the Giving Tuesday campaign filled me with pride to be part of something bigger.

Being surrounded by LuskinOIC’s cluster of brave hearts and brilliant minds has been the highlight of my Coro placement. This team’s dedication is a breath of fresh air I’ll carry with me forever. Conversations with Chairman Craig Ehrlich, Chief Financial Officer Aaron Shimizu, and Assistant Vice President Mary Beth Perrine—who’s retiring after an incredible 35 years—have left a lasting mark on me. Their wisdom and warmth have shaped me, not just as a professional, but as a person.

To LuskinOIC, thank you for welcoming me into your family. I’m beyond grateful for the chance to contribute to your life-changing work. I’m leaving with a full heart, knowing I’ll always have a home here.

[Top photo: Coro Fellow Raiyan Kalam with the foundation team]

The holiday season is a time for giving, and what better way to spread cheer than by bringing smiles to children’s faces through our annual Toys & Joy drive! We’re collecting new, unwrapped toys now through December 5 to help ensure every child at our holiday party feels the magic of the season.

We’re asking for gifts and toys valued at around $15, suitable for children of all ages. Whether it’s a fun game, a stuffed animal, or a creative activity kit, your donation can make a lasting impact on a child’s holiday experience.

Donating is easy: drop off a new toy at our Downtown location, or shop directly from our Amazon Gift List for a quick and convenient way to give. Every toy donated helps create a joyful and inclusive celebration for families in our community. 

Let’s come together and make this holiday season unforgettable—one toy and smile at a time!

Amazon Gift List link- Choose your Gifts Here

By Dr. Hervey 

At LuskinOIC, our Sports Medicine Center plays a vital role in keeping high school athletes healthy, strong, and game-ready. Each fall, our dedicated sports medicine doctors are on the sidelines at Santa Monica High School, El Segundo High School, and Culver City High School, offering expert on-field coverage during football games for freshman, JV, and varsity players. From immediate injury assessments to ensuring swift medical care, we keep student-athletes safe and ready to compete.

Beyond game days, our sports medicine fellows, led by Fellowship Director Dr. Goldman, host weekly training room sessions at these schools. These sessions focus on injury prevention, strength conditioning, and personalized rehabilitation, equipping athletes with essential skills to protect themselves and enhance their performance on the field. Dr. Goldman announced that our 2025–2026 fellows are Dr. Kimberly Burbank, Dr. Alex Soto, and Dr. Kyle Lau.

LuskinOIC is also proud to serve as a Clinical Rotation Site for sports medicine fellows, offering hands-on experience in delivering world-class orthopaedic care. We are expanding this program to reach more schools and include LuskinOIC’s orthopaedic and family medicine residents. This collaboration will strengthen our mission to ensure that every student-athlete, regardless of school or sport, has access to top-tier medical support.

At LuskinOIC, we believe every young athlete deserves the chance to shine. Through our Sports Medicine Center, we’re not just treating injuries—we’re building resilience, fostering confidence, and helping high school stars chase their goals, one play at a time.

The MRI project, part of the Innovation Campaign, has inspired record-breaking generosity across LuskinOIC. It’s the top need identified by LuskinOIC’s medical staff, and we’re proud to announce that 100% of our faculty and an incredible 89% of all employees have contributed to making it a reality.

According to America’s Charities, the national average participation rate for employee giving is around 10%. Even the highest rate reported by United Way campaigns tops out at  67%. LuskinOIC’s 89% participation is nothing short of extraordinary—and a true reflection of our team’s dedication to our mission.

Thanks to your support, we’re one step closer to dramatically improving access to care. Currently, pediatric patients wait 2.5 months for an MRI. Once we have our own machine, that wait time will drop to just 2.5 days—eliminating an estimated 4,235,475 total wait-days for children. That is something to support, celebrate, and be proud of!  

Photo caption: Employees started contributing at the LuskinOIC Employee Day of Giving in June, and have continued to sign up to support the MRI project to reach an outstanding 89% participation!

This incredible level of support wouldn’t have been possible without our resident campaigner extraordinaire, Mary Beth Perrine, who personally visited every corner of the campus to encourage employee giving for the MRI project. Mary Beth will be retiring next month, and her enthusiasm, passion, and boundless energy will be greatly missed. Though the weather tried to rain on her parade, Mary Beth’s Retirement Hoedown has been rescheduled for Monday, Nov. 17, at 11:30 a.m. Friends, family, donors, staff, and faculty will all mosey down to Palm Drive to celebrate Mary Beth’s 36 years with the organization.

On Tuesday, October 28, 2025, LuskinOIC delivered a powerful and impassioned presentation at the Skirball Cultural Center in Los Angeles during the final round of the Everychild Foundation’s highly competitive grant process. This pivotal moment brought us one step closer to securing a transformative $1 million award to fund our MRI project—a cornerstone initiative that will revolutionize pediatric diagnostics and drastically reduce wait times for children in need of critical care.

The morning began with LuskinOIC team members gathering for a group photo in the Skirball courtyard alongside Everychild Foundation leaders Jackie Caster, Beth Parks, Elisabeth Lesser, and Lisa Cleri Reale. After coffee and refreshments, the program opened with remarks from Caster and Parks that set an inspiring tone for the presentations ahead.

Opening remarks by Jackie Caster and Beth Parks, delivered by 9:15 AM, ignited the session with inspiration. From 9:30–10:00 a.m., LuskinOIC’s 30-minute presentation unfolded with compelling urgency, as Dr. Anthony Scaduto began by outlining the critical need for a dedicated MRI machine. Jamie Wells and Maureen Stockton then spoke to the operational impact across our hospital, and Dr. Nicholas Bernthal closed with a powerful call to action, reaffirming LuskinOIC’s unwavering commitment to equitable access and exceptional care.

The presentation highlighted how the grant would eliminate more than three million days of waiting for children needing scans, addressing the unacceptable two-month delays currently hindering timely diagnosis and treatment. A dynamic 20-min- ute Q&A followed, allowing Everychild Foundation members to engage deeply with our vision. Before the presentation, the Everychild Foundation toured the LuskinOIC campus to see firsthand the depth of our dedication to pediatric care. With a final decision expected in early November, this grant represents a beacon of hope. LuskinOIC stands ready to transform lives, ensuring no child waits for the care they deserve.

Our mascot Ozzie is rallying stakeholders and staff to spread the word about LuskinOIC’s unmatched commitment to accessible, high-quality pediatric orthopaedic care. Below are sharp talking points to showcase our work. Use them in meetings, posts, or pitches to highlight how we ensure every child receives top-tier treatment with no barriers or compromises.

• Founded in October, 1911

• Staffed with 38 medical providers, including 11 surgeons, 6 nonoperative MDs, 3 physician assistants, and 4 nurse practitioners.

• LuskinOIC surgeon on call 24/7, 365 days a year, for UCLA Health in the event a child needs emergency orthopaedic surgery

• Largest provider of pediatric orthopaedic surgery in Los Angeles county

• We serve all children, regardless of immigration status, insurance, or background, creating a true safe space in the heart of Los Angeles

• With more than 100 years of impact, we have:
  • Cast more than 30,000 casts
  • Fitted more than 12,000 braces
  • Welcomed more than 50,000 patient visits

• These numbers prove that expert care belongs to every family, not just a few

We would like to take a moment to extend a heartfelt thank you to all of our incredible sponsors who helped make this year’s Swing for Kids Golf Tournament a success. Your generosity and commitment continue to make a lasting impact on the lives of the children and families we serve.

A special thank-you goes to longtime friend and supporter Jason Silletti, who never hesitates to rally his network to show up in a big way each year. We’re also deeply grateful to our Golf Committee Chair Dan Madden, whose leadership, enthusiasm, and dedication brought every planning meeting to life.

To Ashley and the Jain Family, thank you for always answering the call to action with open hearts and unwavering support. We’re also proud to recognize our returning sponsor, the Dal Bello Family, for their continued partnership and generosity. And finally, a warm welcome to our newest sponsor, Prevail Insurance Management Services—we’re so excited to have you join us on the course.

We truly couldn’t do this without all of you. Thank you for Driving Fore-ward for our patients.

On Sept. 20, LuskinOIC celebrated National Care for Kids Day by spotlighting a new campus landmark: a 10-foot statue of our beloved dragon mascot, Dr. Ozzie. Installed earlier this year, the statue stands as a joyful symbol of resilience, healing, and hope for patients and their families.

Ozzie has been part of LuskinOIC since 2014, greeting children with high-fives and spreading cheer at events. Designed by advisory council member Dan Madden, the friendly dragon was inspired by a red playground figure and created to represent playfulness, resilience, and our mission of advancing health equity for every child.

“Dr. Ozzie’s statue, complete with his lab coat and stethoscope, ensures his impact will be felt for generations,” said Michael Sullivan, vice president and chief philanthropy officer at LuskinOIC. “His presence reflects our commitment to making every child feel safe, supported, and cared for throughout their medical journey.”

The statue now welcomes families at our downtown Los Angeles campus, serving as both a favorite photo spot and a lasting reminder of our dedication to children’s health.

[Top photo: From left to right: LuskinOIC talent ambassadors, Nayah Damasen, Bella Blanding, Daire McLeod & patient ambassador, Alex Heenan with Dr. Ozzie]

LuskinOIC proudly sponsored and attended the 2025 Angel City Sports Stars and Stripes Gala, an inspiring evening celebrating the Paralympic movement and honoring Gene and Tracy Sykes for their leadership and advocacy.

The gala was hosted by former LuskinOIC patient ambassador and two-time Paralympic gold medalist Ezra Frech, whose journey continues to inspire countless young athletes.

Representing LuskinOIC were Vice President Michael Sullivan; Dr. Soroosh Baghdadi, director of cerebral palsy); Joanna Stover, sports medicine; Chris Carone, director of orthopedic rehabilitation; and Board Member Iran Hopkins.

Angel City Sports continues to provide adaptive sports and recreation opportunities to thousands of athletes of all ages and abilities throughout Southern California. It was a joyful night of community, inclusion, and celebration of excellence in movement and mission.

On Sept. 5, we hosted our final general volunteer orientation of the year at LuskinOIC. It was one of our largest turnouts ever, with 97 new volunteers—including high school students (16  from Ortho High), college students, and support group members. 

During our orientation, we shared expectations for volunteers, introduced departments, and provided guidance to help them get started. Each attendee also received a raffle ticket for a chance to win a LuskinOIC-branded Sole bicycle. As the anticipation grew, the Vice President and Chief Philanthropy Officer at LuskinOIC, Michael Sullivan, announced that Naomi Machado, an incoming freshman at Santa Monica College, was the winner. 

To close, we divided our attendees into three tours, offering a personalized and interactive experience for each volunteer. Each group was led by one of our volunteer staff who shared their own experiences and insights and gave the volunteers a look into how they could make an impact across departments.

[Top photo: Photo of new volunteers listening to the orientation.]

LuskinOIC is offering new Sports Medicine webinars to support secondary school athletic trainers with affordable continuing education, now featured on our new webinar page.

• Fall Kickoff Mini-Series: Low-cost CEUs (two per session) on prevention, evaluation, management, and rehab of pediatric and adolescent sports injuries. Practical, evidence-based guidance trainers can apply immediately.
  
• Beat the Heat: Two sessions on urgent safety issues. Dr. Josh Goldman reviews 2023 Concussion Consensus updates for secondary schools; Dr. Amanda Honsvall covers heat illness prevention, WBGT monitoring, and emergency management. Each 45-minute session includes a Q&A.

These programs meet state requirements, provide life-saving knowledge, and strengthen care for young athletes whose bodies are still developing. Registration information and additional details about upcoming webinar dates are available on our website.

After 36 years of dedicated service, Mary Beth Perrine will retire from LuskinOIC this November. To celebrate her impact and all she means to this organization, the foundation will host a Retirement Hoedown on Palm Drive, featuring live music by Country Vision Band, a delicious chicken dinner from Robert’s Catering, and refreshing mocktails from Curly Bartender. Guests are invited to wear their best country western attire for an afternoon of line dancing and a special program honoring Mary Beth, including a surprise announcement from LuskinOIC CEO Dr. Anthony Scaduto.

Mary Beth is LuskinOIC personified. Her inexhaustible energy and unbridled enthusiasm are only rivaled by her deep dedication to LuskinOIC and its mission to provide outstanding, comprehensive care for children regardless of their family’s ability to pay. Greeting everyone she meets with a hug and a smile, Mary Beth and her trusty canine pal and “Chief of Morale” Captain have brought endless joy to patients, providers, and staff alike.In honor of the Perrine family’s generational commitment to ensuring children receive expert care, Mary Beth has established the Perrine Family Patient Ambassador Fund to support patient ambassadors and their families to ensure their needs, wishes, and special requests can all be met—whether medical or personal. Click here to donate in honor of Mary Beth today by clicking “One-Time Donation” and selecting the “Mary Beth Patient Ambassador Fund” as the designation.

[Top photo: Mary Beth with Captain]

Every year at the Swing for Kids Golf Classic, we present the Fox Family Community Inspiration Award, named in honor of former board member Ned Fox for his dedication and service to LuskinOIC. This year’s recipient is the family of actor Christopher Gorham and his wife, Anel.

 All three of their children have been patients at LuskinOIC, and the family has given back for more than a decade. The Gorhams encouraged their children to volunteer at events and supported our fundraising galas from the very first gala at Fox Studios, securing celebrity involvement from friends including America Ferrera, Ana Ortiz, Debby Ryan, Kathryn Gallagher, and the Band from TV.

For their support and love for each other, their time, talents, and treasures, we are honored to present the Gorham family with the 2025 Fox Family Community Inspiration Award.

[Top Image: Chris with Scoliosis Patient at 2022 Golf]

Speaker, mentor, writer, and LuskinOIC board member, John Kobara, is a well-known social entrepreneur and a facilitator of change. Kobara is a proud third-generation Japanese American who strives to lend a helping hand to institutions and people, helping them become stronger versions of themselves. Kobara holds multiple academic degrees and has pursued post-graduate studies, but it was through his professional work and volunteer efforts that he truly grew as a person. Being a practicing philanthropist, he has raised money for human development organizations throughout his life, serving as a guide to thousands of individuals, families, and foundations. His organization, Random Acts of Progress, is just one example of his mission to coach individuals and organizations to align their work with their deepest passions, promoting education, equity, and personal growth.

Kobara released his latest book titled “Quest,” which has 121 questions that prompt the reader to reflect and write their thoughts in the book.

If you are interested in discovering insights about your own personal journey and growth, join us on November 12, 2025, from 3:30–5:00 p.m. at The Luck Family Conference Center at LuskinOIC Downtown. We will have an interactive reading and discussion focused on the book, and explore practical ways we can apply the concepts from the book.

RSVP: John Kobara’s “Quest” Workshop Tickets, Wed, Nov 12, 2025, at 3:30 p.m. | Eventbrite

The LuskinOIC Foundation recently received a heartfelt phone call from former patient Sheila Chaffin. Mrs. Chaffin first came through our doors in June 1949 as an infant diagnosed with clubfoot—or as she affectionately referred to herself, “an out-ie.” From infancy to age four, she was treated by Dr. Ward Randall, spending years in braces and casts. 

She recalls visiting during a time when polio was still widespread, with patients separated into “polio” and “non-polio” lines upon arrival. Children were wheeled through the hospital in wicker chairs—memories that have stayed with her for a lifetime. 

After treatment, she went on to earn degrees from USC and Cornell University, build a career as an architect, raise a family, and pursue ballroom dancing—all possible thanks to the care she received at LuskinOIC as a child.

Now 76 and living in Alabama, Mrs. Chaffin recently returned to our campus. She was deeply moved by how much had changed and how much had stayed the same — in our mission to care for children in need. She met with Dr. Mauricio Silva, medical director and chief of clubfoot care, before making a $25,000 gift to support our Clubfoot Specialty Clinic. We are honored by her generosity.

[Former patient Sheila Chaffin returned to LuskinOIC to share her story of being a patient in the 1950s, recalling how she was treated with love and dignity as a child; she noted that Dr. Silva exemplified the same compassion today!]

We are thrilled to announce that Dr. Shane Hervey is joining the LuskinOIC Sports Medicine team, bringing exceptional expertise in non-surgical orthopaedic care and sports medicine to our young athletes.

Dr. Hervey serves as an Assistant Clinical Professor in UCLA’s Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and specializes in treating athletes and active people of all ages with non-surgical orthopaedic conditions and sports-related injuries. He currently serves as team physician for UCLA Football and Baseball and has previously worked with the Los Angeles Dodgers, Lakers, and Sparks.

Having played football and basketball himself, Dr. Hervey brings a unique personal understanding of athletic challenges. His experience as a team athlete enhances his approach to patient care and makes him particularly effective in treating young athletes.

Dr. Hervey earned his medical degree from Oregon Health & Science University, completed his Family Medicine residency at UC San Francisco, and finished his Sports Medicine fellowship at UCLA. He currently serves as faculty lead for high school sports within the UCLA Sports Medicine fellowship.

Dr. Hervey’s passion for community engagement, healthcare access, and mentorship aligns perfectly with LuskinOIC’s mission. His collaborative approach and commitment to comprehensive care will strengthen our ability to provide elite-level treatment to young athletes while maintaining our focus on compassionate, patient-centered care.

Welcome to the team, Dr. Hervey!

[Top photo: From  left to right:  Dr. Duffaut, Dr. Goldman, Dr. Hervey, and Dr. Swisher]

Ready, Set, School!

The LuskinOIC Back-to-School Drive was a huge success, thanks to the incredible energy and generosity of our community! Patients and their families were welcomed with open arms and big smiles as they received free school supplies, backpacks, and essential gear to kick off the new school year with confidence.

We were especially grateful for the support of our amazing LuskinOIC volunteers and the ever-enthusiastic Las Niñas volunteers, whose positive energy lit up the entire event. Their presence made the day extra special for every child and family who walked through our doors.

Even Ozzie the Dragon and members of the UCLA Women’s Basketball Team joined in the fun, spreading joy and sharing some unforgettable moments with our young scholars.

A special thank-you goes out to the Starlight Children’s Foundation for their generous donations—including backpacks, toothbrushes, hoodies, and more—which ensured that every child felt ready, supported, and excited for the school year ahead.

Together, we’re helping our patients head back to school not just prepared, but empowered. Thank you to everyone who made this day possible!

[Top photo: Ozzie walking with kids at event while all are wearing backpacks]

LuskinOIC, in partnership with UCLA and the Los Angeles Dodgers, recently participated in community engagement events at the Dream Center Back to School event in Los Angeles and at Heartwell Park in Long Beach. These events brought smiles and support to many local families, and our team was thrilled to connect with the community, promote the services of our nonprofit hospital, and promote healthy living tips.

Attendees enjoyed a wide range of activities, including face painting provided by our enthusiastic volunteers. We also gave away LuskinOIC merchandise—socks, hand sanitizers, and workout bands—to encourage health and wellness within our community.

These events are a cornerstone of our commitment to community health and well-being, and we’re incredibly grateful to partner with organizations like UCLA and the Dodgers, who share our dedication to making a positive impact.

[Top photo: A family learning about LuskinOIC at our booth]

This summer has been extraordinary for LuskinOIC, with our innovative programs capturing the attention of major news outlets across Los Angeles. KCAL, ABC7, and Fox featured our groundbreaking events, sharing our mission of healing and fostering future champions with audiences throughout Southern California.

On July 30, KCAL cameras captured the magic as we transformed the Luck Family Conference Center into a winter wonderland for our Christmas in July celebration. The feature showcased children’s faces lighting up as they received toys from Santa, played festive games, created crafts, and experienced pure holiday joy in the middle of summer. The event welcomed patients, families, staff, and community members—demonstrating how LuskinOIC goes beyond traditional medical care to create memorable experiences that bring families together.

From August 5–7, our 3rd Annual Cerebral Palsy Camp took center stage on both ABC7 and Fox. The features captured what makes this camp so special: a unique blend of play, creativity, and inclusive sports designed specifically for children with cerebral palsy. Viewers saw campers enjoying adaptive water activities, creating art projects, joining the traditional camp parade, and forming friendships in a safe, supportive environment.

This remarkable media attention highlights LuskinOIC’s comprehensive approach to pediatric orthopaedic care. Both events exemplify our belief that true healing extends beyond the exam room to encompass the whole child and their family’s well-being. The coverage reached thousands of Southern California families, helping us connect with those who could benefit from our services while inspiring others in the healthcare community. These stories demonstrate how LuskinOIC is redefining pediatric healthcare—creating spaces where children can thrive, families can connect, and communities come together to help every child reach their full potential.

As we look ahead, this summer’s media coverage serves as a powerful reminder of our impact: healing and fostering future champions, one child at a time.

[Top photo: CP Camp 2025 featured on ABC7]

We are incredibly proud to celebrate our Patient Ambassador Alex Heenan, who recently made history representing Team USA at the 2025 World University Games in Duisburg, Germany. Alex’s remarkable achievement serves as a powerful testament to what’s possible when exceptional medical care meets unwavering determination.

The UCLA men’s water polo team earned its invitation to represent Team USA after winning the NCAA National Championships in the 2024-25 season. Joining them was the UCLA women’s team, which claimed the 2024 title and finished third in 2025. At the World University Games, both teams made history by clinching spots in the gold medal game—marking the first time the United States medaled in both men’s and women’s water polo at the same tournament. Both teams proudly brought home silver medals.

Just a few years ago, Alex faced a life-changing moment when he received a scoliosis diagnosis. The condition threatened not only his athletic dreams but also his ability to participate in the sport he loves. Like many young athletes facing orthopaedic challenges, Alex wondered if he would ever return to competitive water polo, let alone reach the pinnacle of the sport. Under the expert care of Dr. Anthony Scaduto and the entire LuskinOIC team, Alex’s journey took a dramatically different path. The comprehensive treatment and support he received didn’t just restore his ability to play—it enabled him to excel at the highest levels of competition.

Alex’s story exemplifies LuskinOIC’s mission of healing and fostering future champions. His journey from uncertainty to international success demonstrates how specialized pediatric orthopaedic care can transform not just medical outcomes but entire life trajectories. When we provide comprehensive, compassionate care, we don’t just treat conditions—we preserve dreams and create possibilities. 

Alex Heenan continues to serve as a Patient Ambassador for LuskinOIC, inspiring other young athletes facing orthopaedic challenges and demonstrating the life-changing impact of specialized pediatric care.

As summer came to a close, our talented Ortho High interns marked the end of their immersive healthcare experience by presenting their final projects to staff, mentors, and peers. These capstone presentations were more than just a summary—they were a celebration of growth, learning, and impact across a wide range of disciplines, including patient care, research, rehabilitation, radiology, sports medicine, international outreach, and community engagement.

Throughout the program, students had hands-on opportunities to explore the various facets of orthopaedic healthcare. They learned foundational clinical skills, including casting techniques at the Fracture Center, and contributed to cutting-edge innovation by assisting with 3D printing of medical components. In therapy and rehabilitation departments, they worked side by side with pediatric specialists to support young patients through their healing journeys.

Beyond the clinic, interns played a key role in planning and executing signature events, such as our much-loved CP Camp, which brings joy and connection to children with cerebral palsy. Their involvement in both the behind-the-scenes logistics and direct patient interaction gave them a full-circle view of the dedication and teamwork involved in healthcare delivery.

Throughout the summer, the interns didn’t just gain technical knowledge—they also developed professional confidence, communication skills, and, most importantly, a deeper appreciation for compassionate, patient-centered care.

We are incredibly proud of the passion and commitment these future healthcare leaders brought to the program. As they head back to school and look ahead to their next chapters, we know they’re taking with them not just experiences, but a clear vision of what it means to make a difference in the lives of others.

[Top photo: Urgent Care Intern Diana with Urgent Care and Fracture Center Staff]

The 2025 LuskinOIC Cerebral Palsy Summer Camp was pure joy in motion, led by Rehab Director Chris Caron and Sera Cho. Over three action-packed days, campers laughed, played, and splashed their way through unforgettable activities while grateful parents looked on with pride.

Our lead partner Angel City Sports brought the thrill of adaptive sports, The Painted Turtle sparked creativity with arts and crafts, SoCal Trikers led a parade full of smiles, and Canine Companions added extra love and cuddles. Special guests from the UCLA Women’s Basketball team brought their championship spirit, joining in the fun and supporting our kids every step of the way.

A daily highlight was transforming our accessible playground—made possible by the Every Child Foundation—into an inclusive water park where the joy was contagious. None of it would have been possible without our incredible team of volunteers, especially the medical students who brought energy, care, and heart to every camper moment.

Wheelchair tennis at CP Camp 2025

[Top photo: CP Camp volunteer with Camper at 2025 CP Camp]

Earlier this month, the LuskinOIC Foundation received the final distribution from the Tigner and Gibson Estate. For more than 46 years, Evert Tigner and Ian Gibson were devoted supporters of LuskinOIC’s mission to provide exceptional orthopaedic care to children regardless of their financial circumstances.

Evert, a lifelong educator, witnessed firsthand how the care provided by LuskinOIC transformed the lives of his students. Inspired by the impact he saw in the classroom, he became a committed donor—choosing to support our work both during his lifetime and as part of his legacy. 

The final gift from their estate—totaling $12,000—has been designated to help fund the purchase of a Siemens MRI machine for our forthcoming Advanced Imaging Center. Today, our patients face an average MRI wait time of nearly three months, delaying diagnosis and treatment for serious conditions. This generous contribution will help reduce wait times and ensure more timely, effective care. 

To learn more about planned giving opportunities, please contact Mary Beth Perrine at MPerrine@mednet.ucla.edu.

[Top photo: Evert Tigner and his partner Ian Gibson, longtime LuskinOIC donors.]

We are pleased to share that the Foundation is expected to receive a generous gift of approximately $200,000 from the Morris Family. Roy Morris and his wife, Dao, were introduced to our mission through the outstanding efforts of our community engagement team and Board of Trustees Chair, Mark Zytko.

After learning about our planned Advanced Imaging Center and the significant challenges our patients face—including scan wait times of nearly three months—Mr. and Mrs. Morris were moved to take action. Their generous contribution will play a vital role in helping us improve access to critical diagnostic services and reduce delays in care for our patients.

We are deeply grateful to the Morris family for their support and commitment to advancing health equity in our community. If you are interested in learning more about making a stock gift or other ways to support our mission, please contact Mary Beth Perrine at MPerrine@mednet.ucla.edu.

[Top photo: A patient and her siblings smiling as they pose next to Doctor Ozzie.]

A few weeks ago, the Foundation team received a heartfelt call from Bruce Buettell, who wished to make a gift in memory of his late father, Robert Buettell. 

In 1941, 15-year-old Robert was the victim of a hit-and-run accident while waiting for a bus, leaving him with a severely injured knee and a grim prognosis. Desperate for help, his mother brought him to Orthopaedic Hospital. Despite her being a single mother with no means to pay, they were welcomed with open arms. Thanks to the expert and compassionate care Robert received, he went on to live a long and fulfilling life.

He served in the U.S. Army, raised a family, and became a proud USC alumnus—known far and wide as the Trojans’ biggest fan. From age 21 to 86, he attended nearly every home game and even traveled out of state to cheer on his team.

Robert Buettell passed away in 2023 at the age of 96, but his legacy lives on through his son and grandsons, who continue to cheer on the Trojans. 

To learn more about making a gift in honor or memory of a loved one, please contact Mary Beth Perrine at MPerrine@mednet.ucla.edu. 

[Top photo: Three generations of the Buettell family proudly cheering on USC.]

With profound gratitude and a touch of wistfulness, we announce the retirement of Mary Beth Perrine, assistant vice president of the LuskinOIC Foundation, effective November 7, 2025. For 36 years, her boundless energy, infectious enthusiasm, and unwavering dedication have illuminated our halls and transformed countless young lives.

Since joining our team in 1989, Mary Beth has focused relentlessly on creating opportunities for children to receive expert care regardless of financial circumstances. Her innovative fundraising efforts and community partnerships have directly supported our ability to serve the 93% of our patients who are underinsured or uninsured.

Key Achievements

Mary Beth’s impact at LuskinOIC has been both substantial and measurable:

· Operation Impact: Alongside Captain, her beloved canine “Chief of Morale,” Mary Beth completed 50 therapy visits to 50 different patients over 50 days, raising $10,000 to fund 200 patient visits.

· Stand for Kids Gala: She transformed our annual gala into a premier fundraising event, most notably orchestrating the 2024 celebration at SoFi Stadium for 1,000 guests—balancing grandeur with our signature personal approach.

· Community Outreach: After gaining valuable experience elsewhere, Mary Beth returned to LuskinOIC in 2011 as senior director of community outreach, managing volunteer services and serving as liaison to our support groups.

· Toys & Joys: Under her leadership, our annual holiday celebration has brought joy to thousands. At the 2024 event, more than 1,000 patients and families participated in a day designed to care for the whole child—including a dramatic helicopter arrival from Santa. Mary Beth was the lead in establishing the now 30-plus-year relationship with LAPD SWAT.

· Patient Ambassador Program: Mary Beth’s first Patient Ambassador was Melissa Sanchez, who lives with arthrogryposis. Together, they raised funds by finishing the LA Marathon! A team of four pushed Melissa across the finish line! Since then, the program has grown exponentially under Mary Beth’s leadership and love.

· Personal Advocacy: Mary Beth and Captain became beloved fixtures in our hospital corridors, bringing comfort, encouragement, and moments of joy during patients’ difficult medical journeys. Her passion for the mission was as loud as it was warm and effusive, inspiring everyone around her.

Her rallying cry—“SAY YES TO KIDS!”—has inspired countless donors and volunteers to join our mission, creating a lasting legacy of expanded access to care.

Moving Forward

A retirement celebration is being planned—save the date: October 14 at LuskinOIC Downtown, for a HoeDown! To honor Mary Beth’s legacy, donations may be made to the Perrine Family Patient Ambassador Fund, established by Mary Beth in honor of her family’s decades of commitment to LuskinOIC children. This fund will support Patient Ambassadors’ special needs, wishes, and requests—whether medical or personal. Click here to make a donation today.

LuskinOIC recently sent a letter to leading immigrant-serving nonprofits in Los Angeles to reaffirm its commitment to providing safe, welcoming, and inclusive pediatric orthopaedic care for all. This outreach aims to enhance partnerships and expand access to high-quality medical services for children in need.

The letter was shared with the following groups including:

• Coalition for Humane Immigrant Rights (CHIRLA)
• Central American Resource Center (CARECEN)
• Esperanza Immigrant Rights Project
• International Institute of Los Angeles (IILA)
• Catholic Charities of Los Angeles
• Immigrant Defenders Law Center
• International Rescue Committee (Los Angeles)
• Legal Aid Foundation of Los Angeles (LAFLA)
• El Rescate
• California Immigrant Policy Center

This initiative underscores LuskinOIC’s dedication to serving diverse populations with compassion and excellence. It is vitally important to us that every patient and their family feels secure and supported on our campus, knowing they can access care without fear or hesitation. We understand the vulnerabilities many face, and we stand firmly in creating a space of trust where healing can begin. We encourage all families in need—regardless of their background—to seek the specialized orthopaedic care we provide, as our doors are open to ensure every child thrives.

For inquiries or suggestions regarding further outreach, please contact Eunha Choi at eunhachoi@mednet.ucla.edu

The power of compassionate care knows no borders. This month, Dr. Bowen, our International Children’s Program (ICP) team, and a dedicated group of volunteers traveled to Calexico to provide specialized orthopaedic care to children and families in need.

The mission was about more than medical procedures and clinic visits. While the team provided essential care to young patients, they also understood that healing encompasses the whole child. Simple acts of kindness—like sharing toys with patients and their families—created moments of joy that transcended language and cultural differences. The smiles they received in return were priceless reminders that true healing reaches far beyond the exam room.

LuskinOIC’s International Children’s Program continues to embody our commitment to global health equity, ensuring that geography never determines a child’s access to quality orthopaedic care.

LuskinOIC will host Christmas in July on July 30, from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., in the Luck Family Conference Center and outside on the blacktop driveway. This exciting event is sponsored by retired LAPD Officer Robert Deamer and organizations including the SUPO Foundation, the Red Sled Santa Foundation, Seasoned Tees by MCB, and the Newton Street Lucky Thirteen. The celebration will feature toys, music, arts and crafts, back-to-school supplies, food—and plenty of fun!

We’ve also heard that Santa will be taking some time out of his summer break to pay us a visit! This event is open to patients, families, staff, and the broader community. We hope to see many smiling faces as we celebrate the season early!

From July 4–10, more than 2,500 individuals with dwarfism and their families attended the 2025 Little People of America National Conference in San Diego—a one-of-a-kind blend of medical education, family reunion, and summer celebration. LuskinOIC proudly sponsored the opening welcome reception, sending 20 volunteers from Los Angeles. Our team hosted the District 12 ice cream social, serving nearly 300 local Southern California attendees. We were present all week through booth activations, nightly talent and fashion shows, community dances, and a comedy spotlight featuring Nic Novicki and Brad Williams.

Led by Dr. Deborah Krakow, LuskinOIC CEO Dr. Tony Scaduto, and Dr. Julie Bernthal, our team joined specialists from Johns Hopkins, Denver Children’s Hospital, and other skeletal dysplasia leaders to provide free clinical visits. Dr. Krakow, an internationally recognized expert in genetic skeletal disorders, shared insights in both individual consultations and group workshops.

LuskinOIC’s participation reinforced our commitment to combining clinical excellence with community-based outreach. Supporting both the medical and social dimensions of this national gathering reflects our belief in empowering little people through expert care, authentic engagement, and shared celebration.

LuskinOIC was proud to sponsor the 2025 Angel City Games, one of the nation’s premier adaptive sports festivals, held this year at the fully accessible El Camino College campus. The three-day event welcomed more than 400 athletes with disabilities who participated in more than 20 adaptive sports, from wheelchair basketball to blind soccer. Families, fans, and clinicians came together for a weekend of competition, inclusion, and celebration—including a special screening of Row of Life, honoring the remarkable legacy of veteran, disability advocate, and ocean rower Angela Madsen.

In collaboration with the UCLA Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Thrive Adaptive, LuskinOIC supported more than 40 resident physicians and clinical students who volunteered to provide first aid and event support. Under the leadership of Dr. Sharon Hame and Dr. David Kruse, our team gained valuable experience in adaptive sports medicine and the unique care needs of athletes with disabilities. Special thanks to our partners at Angel City Sports for making this unforgettable weekend possible.

LuskinOIC was honored to sponsor the world premiere of Adaptive: Paris, a three-part docuseries held at UTA Theatre in Beverly Hills. The film follows three Team USA Paralympians—swimmer Jamal Hill, who placed fifth in the 50 m freestyle S9; Courtney Ryan, who helped lead the U.S. Women’s Wheelchair Basketball Team to a silver medal; and track and field athlete Ezra Frech, a former LuskinOIC patient who captured two gold medals in Paris, winning both the 100 m T63 and the high jump T63 with a record-breaking performance.

The screening offered an outstanding depiction of peak athleticism in adaptive sports and emphasized the importance of authentic disability representation in media. We were proud to attend alongside members of our Board of Directors, including Jason Silletti, as well as LuskinOIC faculty and staff including CEO Dr. Tony Scaduto, Dr. Mauricio Silva, COO Jamie Wells, and VP Michael Sullivan. Adaptive: Paris premieres July 28 on Peacock and is a powerful reminder of the resilience, excellence, and visibility that define the Paralympic movement.

The LuskinOIC Marketing Department successfully launched a paid media campaign with “L.A. Parent Magazine,” publishing an educational article titled “3 Essential Tips to Prevent Injuries in Youth Athletes” to connect with families across Los Angeles. The strategic placement allowed our sports medicine expertise to reach parents preparing their children for the fall sports season.

The comprehensive article, written by our very own Dr. Goldman, showcased LuskinOIC’s evidence-based approach to youth sports injury prevention, covering crucial topics like gradual training progression, proper sleep and nutrition, and foundational strength building. By sharing practical, research-backed advice from our sports medicine team, the piece positioned LuskinOIC as a trusted resource for athletic families while highlighting our comprehensive sports medicine services.

This targeted outreach effort demonstrates our commitment to proactive community education and prevention-focused care. The “L.A. Parent Magazine” partnership enables us to reach families before injuries occur, while simultaneously introducing our outstanding sports medicine team and service line to new audiences throughout the Los Angeles area. The campaign reflects our broader mission of accessible care, extending our expertise beyond our clinic walls to support healthy, active childhoods across our community.

[Top Image: Dr. Goldman with Sports Medicine patient]

Read the full article here: 3 Essential Tips to Prevent Injuries in Youth Athletes

On July 25, LuskinOIC welcomed 116 incoming freshmen, teachers, and upperclassmen mentors from Orthopaedic Magnet High School as part of their Summer Bridge program. The visit kicked off with a warm welcome and presentation from LuskinOIC staff and two of our high school interns, Kaylin Vargas and Jocelin Epigmenio, rising seniors from Orthopaedic Magnet, who shared their experiences and advice with the incoming class.

During their visit, students had the opportunity to explore LuskinOIC through guided tours led by Courtney Rojas, Community Engagement Manager, and Mary Beth Perrine, Foundation AVP. These tours offered students a firsthand look at our state-of-the-art facilities and introduced them to a wide array of health care roles—from orthopaedic specialists and physical therapists to research and community health professionals. For many of these students, it was their first time inside a clinical setting, giving them a tangible, up-close understanding of potential future careers in health care.

These immersive tours do more than spark curiosity—they help demystify the medical field and make health care careers feel both accessible and achieveable. By showing students where their education can lead, LuskinOIC supports Ortho Magnet’s mission to empower the next generation of health care professionals, many of whom come from underserved communities. 

In addition to tours, students engaged in creative and interactive activities, including crafts, lanyard making, and games—mirroring the same joyful experiences our pediatric patients enjoy. The visit concluded with closing remarks and a pizza lunch, wrapping up a meaningful and inspiring day for these future health care leaders.

The Roopal and Bharati Shah family will once again serve as the Presenting Sponsor for the LuskinOIC Swing for Kids Golf Tournament at Virginia Country Club on Monday, September 29. This marks an impressive eight-year streak as the event’s leading sponsor, demonstrating their unwavering commitment to supporting children’s health care through this charitable golf classic. It promises to be a day packed with fun, flavor, and philanthropy at a location that can’t be matched. The stunning Virginia Country Club in Long Beach is a historical gem, nestled in a breathtakingly beautiful setting, offering a truly special golfing experience. From the tree-lined entrance to the immaculately maintained fairways and greens, every scene is a delight for the senses.

By attending or sponsoring this event, you are helping to drive LuskinOIC FORE-ward, ensuring that children receive excellent care, regardless of their family’s ability to pay. This year’s event will benefit the LuskinOIC Care for Kids Fund, which supports excellent pediatric care provided at LuskinOIC. There will be a surprise around every corner—from an incredible tee gift experience to Bristol Farms’ “the cookie,” Calwise Spirits, and so much more! For more information, contact Mary Beth Perrine at 213-742-1500 or MPerrine@mednet.ucla.edu.

Learn more at Swing for Kids – Luskin Orthopaedic Institute for Children

[Top Image: Actor, advisory council member and talented emcee, Chris Gorham with (l-r) Chris Henze, Matt Barr, and Sebastian Roche]

Earlier this month, LuskinOIC received a generous final distribution of $100,000 from the Loretta M. Frye Trust. Loretta was a single mother of five who came to us in the 1970s seeking care for her son Bill, who had suffered a serious knee injury. With no means to pay, she turned to us in desperation. Our doctors treated Bill at no cost to the family. Loretta herself lived with untreated scoliosis and knew how important it was to get her son timely medical care. Deeply moved by the compassion she received, Loretta spent the rest of her life paying it forward—volunteering with Meals on Wheels, preparing taxes pro bono through AARP, and ultimately including LuskinOIC as a beneficiary in her estate. Her gift will be put toward the purchase of an MRI for our Advanced Imaging Center so that children like Bill Frye will not have to wait to receive the expert specialty care they need. If you would like to learn more about estate planning, please contact Mary Beth Perrine at mperrine@mednet.ucla.edu.

[Top image: Dr. Duffaut with Sports Medicine patient]

Patients at LuskinOIC will celebrate Christmas a little early this year! On Wednesday, July 30, Santa will deliver toys to hundreds of kids in the Luck Family Conference Center, while patients enjoy games, crafts, and other fun activities. We are looking forward to seeing every child leave for home smiling with all the toys they will receive! LuskinOIC is excited to bring extra special cheer to our kids to help make a magical Christmas in July.

[Top photo: Santa at Toys & Joy]

LuskinOIC’s marketing team recently launched comprehensive awareness campaigns for Clubfoot Awareness Month and Scoliosis Awareness Month, utilizing multi-channel strategies to educate families and health care providers about these common pediatric orthopaedic conditions.

The campaigns featured targeted email marketing to parents and stakeholders, providing essential information about early detection, treatment options, and success stories from LuskinOIC patients. Social media platforms showcased educational content and patient testimonials to reach broader audiences and encourage early intervention. The team also published in-depth educational blog posts on the LuskinOIC website, offering detailed insights into symptoms, treatment approaches, and long-term outcomes for both conditions.

These awareness initiatives not only educated the community about important pediatric orthopaedic conditions but also reinforced LuskinOIC’s position as a trusted resource for specialized care. The campaigns generated increased engagement across digital platforms and drove traffic to educational resources, helping more families recognize symptoms early and seek appropriate treatment for their children.

[Top photo: Dr. Bowen with scoliosis patient]

The return of the LuskinOIC Cerebral Palsy Summer Camp is just around the corner, taking place August 5–7 on our vibrant downtown campus! Now in its third year, this high-energy, high-impact camp is one of our most joyful and meaningful events of the summer—blending fun, community, and education in a uniquely LuskinOIC way.

Designed specifically for children with cerebral palsy of all ability levels, this three-day experience offers everything from adaptive sports and arts & crafts to inclusive water play—all made possible by the leadership of our outstanding Orthopaedic Rehabilitation team, with special thanks to Sera Cho, who has brought her clinical expertise and heart to every detail of this event.

We’re proud to once again partner with Angel City Sports, who will deliver dynamic adaptive sports clinics, and to welcome a special visit from Canine Companions, whose service dogs-in-training bring both comfort and excitement to the day.

This year’s camp will also double as a hands-on educational opportunity for clinical student volunteers, offering aspiring physical therapists, occupational therapists, and future physicians a chance to learn directly from kids with disabilities and from our interdisciplinary care team. This immersive, joyful environment fosters empathy, clinical understanding, and a stronger future for disability-competent care.

Another full house is expected, so special thanks are in order for everyone on our board for helping us make events like this possible—your support helps us shape inclusive care, one summer memory at a time.

We are thrilled to announce that LuskinOIC has advanced to the next round of the Everychild Foundation’s highly selective grant process. We are one proposal and presentation away from a potential $1 million award—the lead gift for our new MRI project.Currently, many of our patients wait more than two months for a scan to best determine their clinical and surgical plans. With this grant, we expect to eliminate more than 3 million days of waiting for our deserving children. 

Everychild Foundation will vote up to a week after our final presentation on October 28, and we will be notified in early November. Our Foundation team is focused on the preparations for our final proposal and presentation in the fall. Stay tuned as we work toward transforming diagnostics for our young patients.

[Top photo: Everychild Foundation visits LuskinOIC]

Congratulations to the LuskinOIC Class of 2025! More than 40 seniors from schools including Orthopaedic Medical Magnet High School, USC Hybrid, St. Mary’s Academy, Gala, Santee Education Complex, Palos Verdes High School, and more, graduated this June after completing more than 6,500 volunteer hours. They assisted in clinics, at our welcome desks, patient recreation programs, and at special events. This past month, LuskinOIC continued its mission to help train the next generation by providing more than $50,000 in scholarships through the Bonter Scholarship program, as well as $15,000 from Board Chair Craig Ehrlich. Since 2006, LuskinOIC has provided more than $1 million in college scholarships to its patients and Ortho High graduates. Expressing their enthusiastic support for the students, Claudia Prestine and Craig Ehrlich attended Ortho High’s Scholarship Night to present each student with their scholarship awards. Students have been accepted to universities such as UCLA, Stanford University, University of Notre Dame, USC, California Baptist University, UC Berkeley, UC Irvine, and more.

To conclude the school year for Ortho High School, LuskinOIC’s Assistant Vice President Mary-Beth Perrine delivered an inspirational commencement speech to salute the Class of 2025, along with a speech from valedictorian Oliver Nunez, who has supported our volunteer program for the last few years and has been selected as Bonter Scholarship recipient. 

LuskinOIC is so proud of the graduating class and all of their accomplishments!

[Top photo: AVP,  Mary Beth Perrine gives commencement speech at Ortho High graduation ceremony]

LuskinOIC Sports Medicine is hosting a 2025 Sports Medicine Fall Kickoff Webinar on July 29 and 31, featuring six 30-minute sessions led by UCLA Health physicians and certified athletic trainers. The two-day virtual event covers crucial topics including athlete mental health, advances in knee surgery for adolescents, heat and cold therapy applications, inclusive athletic training practices, and ankle rehabilitation protocols.

The webinar offers 2-4 CEUs for certified athletic trainers. Sessions include live Q&A sessions with clinicians that allow participants to engage directly with expert presenters. Featured speakers include UCLA Health sports medicine specialists Dr. Emily Miller, Dr. Soroush Baghdadi, Dr. Joshua Goldman, and UCLA Men’s Basketball athletic trainer Tyler Lesher. For more information about LuskinOIC’s Sports Medicine Fall Kickoff Webinar—or to register—click here.

The latest issue of Southbay Magazine features our own Dr. Soroush Baghdadi, highlighting his decade of outstanding work in adolescent sports medicine at LuskinOIC.

In the profile, Dr. Baghdadi shares insights about his patient-centered approach, emphasizing the importance of personalized care that supports children’s long-term growth and mobility rather than simply treating immediate injuries. He discusses how LuskinOIC delivers specialized pediatric orthopaedic care through our strategic alliance with UCLA Health, ensuring treatments reflect cutting-edge research while being specifically designed for children—not merely adapted from adult protocols.

He also shares his passion for community outreach and the International Children’s Program, which has delivered orthopaedic care globally for more than a century. When asked about recent advances in the field, Dr. Baghdadi details how LuskinOIC integrates innovative approaches including AI diagnostics, minimally invasive techniques, regenerative medicine, and 3D-printed surgical tools.

We’re proud to see Dr. Baghdadi representing LuskinOIC’s commitment to excellence and accessibility in pediatric orthopaedic care in this prestigious South Bay publication.

[Top photo: Dr. Baghdadi for Southbay Magazine]

As summer approaches, LuskinOIC is sharing our Spring/Summer direct mailer—featuring patient ambassadors Enrique. Keep an eye out for it in your mailbox!

Enrique connected with LuskinOIC through our Mexicali screening clinic in April 2021, seeking relief from ongoing foot pain caused by a residual clubfoot deformity. Despite two prior surgeries, his mobility was limited and his pain was persistent, impacting his daily life.

Thanks to Dr. Silva, including a series of specialized castings and corrective surgery at our Los Angeles facility, Enrique’s condition improved dramatically. Today, he’s thriving, needing only one follow-up visit each year.Enrique’s story is a wonderful example of the excellence in care provided at LuskinOIC.  We cannot accomplish success stories like this without our donors’ ongoing support.  Please consider making a gift today in honor of kids like Enrique!

https://www.luskinoic.org/support-us/
Choose “2025 Spring Appeal” on the drop down menu.

On June 17, LuskinOIC celebrated its Day of Giving by inviting all staff and faculty to make a one-time gift or set up ongoing payroll deductions in support of the excellent care we provide our patients. The event raised more than $1,500!

As a thank you, our Foundation department treated participants to lunch from The Fix Burger truck, a raffle ticket for a LuskinOIC-branded bike, and a special one-of-a-kind Ozzie Hydro Flask from Ozzie himself in celebration of National Mascot Day! 

A special thanks to LuskinOIC’s incredible staff—the true heart of our success!

[Above: Staff at Giving Day]
[Top photo: Dr. Schaub & Audrey Schaub with Ozzie in line to participate in Giving Day]

LuskinOIC’s long-standing support group, Las Madrecitas, recently presented a $15,000 check to help fund our upcoming MRI unit, part of the new Advanced Imaging Center set to open in 2026. During the annual Las Madrecitas Installation Dinner, Assistant Vice President Mary Beth Perrine accepted the generous donation and thanked the members for their volunteerism and fundraising efforts. Over the years, Las Madrecitas and Las Niñas have raised more than $3 million for LuskinOIC through events such as the annual Fall Fundraiser and Fashion Show. 

Thank you Las Madrecitas, for your continued commitment to LuskinOIC and the patients we serve!

[Top photo: Photo Caption: AVP,  Mary Beth Perrine accepting check on behalf of Foundation]

In light of the recent Los Angeles wildfires, LuskinOIC made the difficult decision to postpone our traditional June Gala—a vital fundraising event. This necessary pause created a significant revenue gap, even as the demand for pediatric orthopaedic care continues to rise.

To help bridge the funding gap, we launched the  Critical Care Champions initiative, inviting our gala sponsors to fund essential care for children when it’s needed most.

Leading the charge: Board Chair Craig Ehrlich and the Ehrlich Family Fund, who generously donated $20,000 to help ensure no child is turned away.

Thank you, Ehrlich Family, for your unwavering leadership and compassion.

On Tuesday, May 27, members of the Everychild Foundation visited LuskinOIC as part of their rigorous grant review process. We are honored to be among the eight organizations selected for a site visit. 

The Everychild Foundation’s mission—“We are dedicated to easing the suffering of children in the Greater Los Angeles area, whether due to disease, disability, abuse, neglect or poverty”—makes them a perfect partner for LuskinOIC. Nearly years ago, they funded the construction of our adaptive playground. The water feature on the Everychild Playground even inspired the creation of our beloved mascot, Ozzie.

Each year, the foundation awards a  $1 million grant to a worthy cause in support of Los Angeles’ children. After a highly competitive application process with multiple levels of review, we have reached the site visit stage. In June, we will learn if we are selected as one of two finalists.

We are requesting Everychild’s support for LuskinOIC’s first MRI—a long-standing priority for our clinical and research teams. Having an in-house MRI will enable us to capture critical diagnostic images quickly and efficiently, especially for patients with little or no insurance. Currently, many of these children face wait times averaging 2.5 months.

[Top image: Everychild Foundation visits Everychild Playground]

When Dr. Edward Ebramzadeh arrived in Milan this March for a three-month sabbatical at the prestigious Polytecnico di Milano, he continued a scientific exchange that began decades ago. His host, Dr. Roberto Chiesa—head of the biomaterials division in the Department of Chemical Engineering—proudly displays his fellowship diploma from the J. Vernon Luck Research Center (JVL) at LuskinOIC alongside his engineering degrees.

Between exploring Milan’s magnificent Duomo cathedral with visiting family members (both orthopaedic surgeons themselves) and presenting a seminar on  fracture fixation biomechanics to biomedical engineering students, Dr. Ebramzadeh focused on developing joint projects in spine implant evaluation and innovative biomaterials applications.

Even while embracing Italian culture—including weekend hikes in Como Province near the Swiss border with Dr. Chiesa’s family—Dr. Ebramzadeh has maintained his leadership role in LuskinOIC research through remote work sessions and regular Zoom meetings with the Los Angeles team.

This cross-continental partnership exemplifies LuskinOIC’s commitment to advancing pediatric orthopaedic innovation through global scientific exchange—combining the engineering excellence of Italy’s top technical university with our institute’s specialized focus on improving care for children with orthopaedic conditions.

We’re excited to unveil LuskinOIC’s completely reimagined website—designed with our patients and families at the center of every decision.

The new luskinoic.org transforms the online experience with intuitive navigation that helps visitors seamlessly find the information they need, whether they’re looking for specialists, researching treatments, or scheduling appointments.

Vibrant visuals bring our mission to life through compelling videos of young patients returning to activities they love, while colorful graphic elements create an atmosphere that’s both professional and approachable.

Behind the scenes, we’ve enhanced mobile responsiveness, streamlined appointment scheduling, and improved accessibility features—all while maintaining the human connection central to our care philosophy. 

We invite you, your families, and friends to explore our new digital home at luskinoic.org and share your feedback as we continue refining this experience—built for the parents, caregivers, and young champions who inspire our work every day.

This weekend, LuskinOIC was proud to sponsor the Long Beach Adaptive Sports Fair, which brought together more than 300 athletes with disabilities and 150 community volunteers for a day of inclusive fun. Participants of all abilities had the opportunity to try more than 10 adaptive sports during the second annual event held at Long Beach city College. Through our partnership with Thrive Adaptive, we also provided hands-on experiences for aspiring clinicians to work alongside people with disabilities and some of the area’s top coaches.

The weekend’s impact didn’t stop there. LuskinOIC’s disability community liaison, Joe Holt, was invited by the city of Burbank as a dignified guest to celebrate its adaptive recreation program. The city also recognized the Burbank Leadership Council, a group of emerging leaders, for their yearlong fundraising efforts that resulted in $90,000 in adapted sports equipment.

The new equipment includes two electric all-terrain vehicle wheelchairs—making city trails accessible for all for the first time—as well as custom fencing wheelchairs to support the city’s growing adaptive fencing program, now one of the largest in the country. 

None of this would be possible without the continued commitment of Burbank Parks and Recreation under the leadership of Diego Ceballos.

This past month, LuskinOIC and UCLA Health partnered to host their third Sawbones Workshop, introducing students of all grades to the field of orthopaedics. Fifteen residents and medical students led hands-on activities for high school students from over 15 high schools, including Orthopaedic Medical Magnet High School, Da Vinci High School, STEAM Legacy High School, USC Hybrid High School, St. Mary’s Academy, Palos Verdes Peninsula High School, and more. 

During the event, students rotated through ex-fix, lag screw, and compression plating stations. After the workshop, they participated in a Q&A session with the residents to learn what inspired them to pursue medicine and orthopaedics. They also explored fracture management techniques using casting, sawbones models, power tools, and surgical hardware.

Thank you to Dr. Rishi Trikha, the UCLA Health team, Whitney Coe, and the Johnson & Johnson Medtech team for coordinating such an amazing event for our students!

Over the past few months, LuskinOIC’s community of staff, board members, donors, and volunteers has come together to help those impacted by the devastation of the recent urban fires. From donating school supplies to teachers and students at Altadena Arts Magnet Elementary School to providing support to staff and patients in need, LuskinOIC recently partnered with the nonprofit, A Sense of Home, whose mission is to create homes for youth aging out of foster care. Unfortunately, many of their members fell victim to the L.A. fires and are in urgent need of support. 

To help with this initiative, LuskinOIC made a donation to purchase new furniture and had more than 50 staff and volunteers help build the items in the Luck Family Conference Center before they were delivered. Departments including Research, Fracture, Rehabilitation, Security, and many more supported the builds! 

Thank you to all staff and volunteers for continuing to support not just our patients, but our surrounding community in this time of need.

[Top image: “LuskinOIC staff at A Sense of Home Day]