Dana with family and friends at UCSF Benioff Children’s Hospital Oakland’s 2018 Notes & Words fundraiser.
Whether you’ve visited or not, you’re likely familiar with UCSF Benioff Children’s Hospital Oakland (CHO) and its main facility located adjacent to Highway 24. We are fortunate to be located so close to this world class, state-of-the-art facility that treats more children than any other pediatric hospital in the Bay Area. It’s because of gratitude and admiration that I’ve long been a supporter of CHO and one of its most inspiring annual fundraisers, Notes & Words, recently held at Oakland’s Fox Theater. This event has raised millions over the years to help fund everything from clinical care to music therapy, art classes, therapy dog visits, massage, and other programs that address children’s developmental and emotional needs. Generous donations also help ensure the health of the entire community, as CHO advocates for children living in at-risk situations and supports early interventions for those facing challenges like asthma, obesity, and diabetes.
Because of funds raised at events like Notes & Words, no family is ever turned away from CHO due to inability to pay, and the more than 60,000 who visit CHO’s emergency room annually always receive the care they need. Families enter CHO’s doors seeking compassion, innovation, and hope, and it takes a village to make that possible. I am proud to be part of the village and I hope you’ll consider joining me as an ongoing supporter of CHO.