DOWNEY - Downey Regional Medical Center will honor Dr. Bill Kim and Sen. Alan Lowenthal at the 34th annual Charter Ball fundraiser, taking place Oct. 3 at Disney's Grand Californian Hotel.Proceeds from Charter Ball, the hospital's largest fundraiser of the year, have been earmarked for the purchase of state-of-the-art equipment for the hospital's Cardiac Catheterization Laboratory. Lowenthal is in his second term representing the 27th district, which includes portions of Downey. "It is always an honor to know that Downey Regional Medical Center has the support from distinguished leaders like Senator Lowenthal," said Ken Strople, president and CEO of Downey Regional. "We are honored to recognize his commitment to making his communities a priority. It is through his leadership and continued support that current and potential patients of Downey Regional Medical Center can be ensured that they will receive the care they seek for their families." As medical director for Downey Regional, Kim has worked arduously to improve the quality of healthcare at the hospital. As chairman of the Hospital Performance Improvement Committee, he works to ensure that patients receive high-quality care. "For years, Dr. Kim has contributed to the well-being of the community, as an advocate for Downey Regional Medical Center, and this year we are very pleased to acknowledge his contributions, his commitment and his tenacious leadership," Strople said. The Cardiac Catheterization Laboratory (or Cath Lab) provides testing, treatments and procedures that are critical in the care of coronary heart disease, coronary artery disease and an array of related diseases and conditions. Each year, the Cath Lab serves thousands of patients in diagnosis, interventional procedures and treatment in a supportive environment 24 hours a day. Hospital officials said the Cath Lab is in need of state-of-the-art equipment, and proceeds raised by the Charter Ball will be used to purchase modern technology. To purchase Charter Ball tickets, for sponsorship opportunities or to make a "Cath Lab Angel" donation, call the Memorial Trust Foundation at (562) 904-5055.

********** Published: September 4, 2009 - Volume 8 - Issue 20