Join our mascot Choco as he tries to figure out what to put into our 50th Anniversary time capsule. Many people come to offer advice, including the president of our medical staff, members of the EMT, one of our first nurses and a CHOC patient. Everyone has something to contribute, but how is he going to fit it all in? Will he be able to make everyone “Happy” or will he have to “Let it Go”…
Ken Spicer was first admitted to CHOC on Oct. 5, 1964 at age 12 because of a birth defect in his legs, and he remains a steadfast advocate 50 years later. In this video, Ken reflects on his experience at CHOC and how his time at Orange County’s only children’s hospital helped him build a bright future.
Since 1964, CHOC Children’s has nurtured, advanced and protected the health and well-being of children through innovative care and state-of-the-art facilities. What started as a 62-bed children’s hospital – the first in Orange County – has grown into a pediatric health care system serving multiple counties. CHOC’s rapid growth in size and community impact should be of no surprise, given its leadership and steadfast commitment to defining the future of pediatric medicine. Learn about our rich history – from our first patient to the latest technology in the new Bill Holmes Tower.
I was born prematurely at St. Joseph Hospital, so I always assumed I was born at CHOC. I had eye surgeries at CHOC when I was 6 months old and 3 years old. I vividly remember the yellow Choco paw prints leading to the dreary concrete building that was CHOC at the time. I started working at CHOC almost 10 years ago, and now get to follow Choco’s yellow paw prints to a beautiful new building every day. Congratulations and thank you CHOC for taking great care of kids for the past 50 years!
–Megan Bailey, Research Compliance
My favorite CHOC memory was walking in the 2010 CHOC Walk with my 1 year-old twin daughters who were NICU graduates! My whole family joined in to walk with our team, Team EmKay!!
–April Friestad, NICU
CHOC has been my work home since October 3, 1983. I started in endocrinology as a temporary associate with Dr. Bruce Buckingham, one of the few physicians utilizing a computer at the time. We worked in the original three-story building attached to St. Joseph Hospital. One of our chief residents was a “surfer dude,” Dr. Stephen Hanten. Mr. Wade was still here, along with Dr. Harriett Opfell. A few memories involving our physicians include Dr. Ralph Rucker in a dunk tank and Dr. David Hicks dressed as a cowboy for my first Halloween at CHOC. I also remember, when in 1983, the Olympic torch was carried down La Veta Ave. on its way to the Coliseum.
Over the years, my family expanded and I experienced CHOC as a parent. Also, over the past three decades, I have witnessed the many changing faces of Choco and the opening of new buildings. Our logos and colors have changed, as well. But, our mission has always included service to the children of Orange County. I am proud to be part of the CHOC family.
–Michelle Beck, CS Gastroenterology
