Hi Everyone,

This year I am participating in the 2026 CHOC Walk. Last June, my daughter and son in law welcomed my precious granddaughter Luna into the world. Their journey to her birth was difficult as they found out at their 20-week checkup that Luna had several severe heart conditions which could prevent her from being born alive. They were referred to the best pediatric cardiologist, Dr. Renella at CHOC, who walked them through her conditions and still continues to care for Luna today.

They received the best possible outcome when Luna was born alive and tolerated her heart conditions better than anticipated. Open-heart surgery was now a possible goal within the first 6 months of her life to repair some of her conditions.

Luna struggled to gain weight in her first couple of months and at 9 weeks old, she was admitted to CHOC hospital to help her gain weight in preparation for her open-heart surgery, which happened 6 weeks later.

It was the scariest time of our lives to let our little girl go, but she was in the best care of the staff at UCLA and her surgeon, Dr. Van Arsdell. He and his team were able to successfully repair several of her heart conditions and give her a positive prognosis for the future.

They returned to CHOC for a month to allow Luna to recover from surgery and prepare for discharge. We are forever grateful to the incredible Neonatal and Cardiac Drs. and Nurses who cared so passionately not only for Luna, but Sarah and Alan while they lived in the hospital full-time. They really took the time to get to know Luna and her story. Sarah and Alan were able to better advocate on behalf of Luna to receive the best possible care because of the staffs support and education. 

On Friday, November 7th, Luna was discharged from CHOC hospital and came home after 11 long weeks. Without the early detection and continued connection to so many specialists at CHOC, Luna would not be where she is today.

CHOC will now always hold a special place in our hearts, and this cause is just one way for me to give back to the institution that gave me my granddaughter and support all the other children that need and deserve life-saving care. 

You can help me achieve my fundraising goal for the benefit of the children's health and well-being by:

-Donating now by clicking the "Donate" button above. Any donation is greatly appreciated.

Thank you for all the love and support shown to this cause in honor of Luna and her journey thus far.

With Gratitude,

Arthur