The Healthcare Foundation at Glendale Adventist Medical Center (GAMC) will host its annual Gala on Sunday, May 1 at the JW Marriott Los Angeles L.A. LIVE, Platinum Ballroom, at 900 W. Olympic Blvd. GAMC has been serving patients for more than 110 years and generous support from the community has played a major role in developing services at the medical center, a 515-bed hospital with centers of excellence in heart care, stroke care, orthopedic and spine surgery and award-winning cancer services.

Gala proceeds will benefit hospital programs and services that enhance the clinical services offered to patients. In addition, the Fund-a-Need will support a new linear accelerator to provide advanced radiation therapy options to treat cancer patients in the community.

“It is such an honor to co-chair Glendale Adventist Medical Center’s Gala 2016. Our physicians are looking forward to having a fun evening with our supporters as together we support the acquisition of our new linear accelerator,” said Michele Cosgrove MD, chief of staff, GAMC. “This advanced technology is so important to improve the treatment of cancer patients in the community we serve.”

The black-tie event will feature a gourmet dinner, live auction and entertainment. A highlight of the evening is the presentation of the 2016 Physician Hero award to Edmund H. Lew, MD, family practice, board-certified geriatrician and medical director of Adventist Health Home Care and Hospice Services. GAMC physicians touch the lives of thousands of patients and families. The Physician Hero award is based on nominations from grateful patients.

“This is a unique award because patients nominate their own physician hero through a special tribute program,” said Irene Bourdon, president of the Healthcare Foundation. “Physicians are recognized in various ways at GAMC, but when a doctor receives tributes from patients, it is especially meaningful.”

“I have devoted my professional life to healing and helping my patients and their families,” said Dr. Lew. “This is one of the greatest honors I have ever received.”