The Orthopaedic Guild of La Cañada and La Crescenta celebrated 54 years of caring with the 2011 Book and Author Luncheon held at the Angeles National Golf Club on Oct. 25.

President Margot Siess welcomed Dr. Mauricio Silva who explained the work of the doctors both in Los Angeles and in Calexico for children who can’t otherwise have their bones corrected.

He touched the hearts of the audience on an otherwise dreary day with the success stories of these cured children, thanks to the generosity of donors to the Los Angeles Orthopaedic Hospital who celebrate 100 years of healing.

Author Frans Vischer’s book about his cat named Fuddles was a hit. Vischer was raised in communism before coming to America. His success story led to work at many studios including for Disney on films like Winnie the Pooh and Roger Rabbit. He has an indoor cat that wants outdoor adventures. He told the audience he recently acquired a new puppy that is not getting along with Fuddles – it could be the storyline for his next book.

Jennie Nash, who wrote “Threadbare Heart,” explores the experience and pursuit of love from varying viewpoints. Is love a skill? she wonders. She is currently working on her seventh book.

Diana Johnson has written a series of historical novels based on people in her family tree. “Wagons to Hangtown” tells of the race for the gold in a covered wagon. Seventy wagons depart with many taking treacherous cutoff paths to Hangtown, which is Placerville today.

About $15,000 was raised from the luncheon that will go to the hospital for the children’s needs from wheelchairs and braces to wheelchair accessible playground equipment.