Every year the Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital Foundation recognizes key individuals or groups for their dedication and service to children in the community.
This year four awards were presented during the 24th annual Foundation Storybook Gala, which raised more than $1.1 million for a new pediatric hospital tower and Vision 2020: The Campaign for a Whole Tomorrow.
Staff honorees
Two of the evening’s honorees are clinical staff members at LLU Children’s Hospital: Alane Allbee, RN, and Stephen Ashwal, MD.
Allbee was presented with the Hometown Hero Award, which recognizes the contributions of individuals who show a passion for children and help enrich the quality of life in the community.
A charge nurse on the hematology/oncology unit at LLU Children’s Hospital, Albee goes beyond the call of duty. She created the Spirit of Christmas project 25 years ago that she and other nurses work on all year to provide personalized gifts for patient families in need in the Inland Empire.
“I went in to nursing to make a difference in the lives of children,” Allbee said. “I want every patient to know that we are a second home for them, and we give our best.”
Hear more from Allbee in a video profile about her and the Spirit of Christmas project.
Ashwal, a pediatric neurologist, received the Outstanding Clinician Award. This award recognizes individuals who have demonstrated lifelong dedication and distinguished service to children and who, through their professional career and advocacy, have demonstrated the desire and motivation to improve the lives of children in the Inland Empire.
Now the chief of pediatric neurology, Ashwal joined LLU Children’s Hospital more than 40 years ago and has influenced more than a generation of pediatricians internationally through his research and care of children.
Watch Ashwal’s video profile.
Community honorees
Frank and Mary Ann Xavier were honored with the Discover Lifetime Achievement Award, which recognizes outstanding dedication and lifelong distinguished service to children personally and professionally.
“Few people have identified with our mission and culture like the Xaviers,” said Richard Hart, MD, DrPH, president, Loma Linda University Health. “Their participation in many of our events and commitment to our future is exemplary, and I am delighted to recognize them in this way.”
The Shirley N. Pettis Award was given to the Farmer Boys restaurant family. This award recognizes those who, through volunteerism and community service, have demonstrated the desire and motivation to improve the lives of children in the Inland Empire.
Farmer Boys has raised more $655,000 for Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital over the past 16 years, benefiting nearly every unit at the hospital. Founder and CEO Demetris Havadjias, along with President/COO Karen Eadon, accepted the award on behalf of Farmer Boys.
“It makes our job so much more meaningful when we’re doing something that’s making a difference in the lives of people,” said Eadon of their most recent fundraiser for the hospital, “and for us that means so much.”