In this Q&A, Sam Carter, associate director of philanthropy, discusses what has motivated her 15-year career at Rady Children’s Health and the CHOC Foundation, the experiences that have influenced her work, and the lessons she continues to carry.
Stories of Giving
Celebrating a Decade of Impact for Annamaria Ahern and Alicia Balderas
In this Q&A, Assistant Vice President of Annual Giving Annamaria Ahern and Associate Director of Annual Giving Alicia Balderas discuss what has motivated them over their 10-year careers at the CHOC Foundation, the experiences that have influenced their work, and the lessons they continue to carry.
Kali’s comeback: Hope for a brighter future
Kali was only 2 months old when the seizures started. She was diagnosed with multiple severe neurological conditions, but with philanthropy-driven care provided by our clinical staff, Kali’s story took a heroic turn.
Dylan’s story: A taste of triumph
After struggling to find high quality care for her oral aversion, six-month-old Dylan and her family finally got the support they needed at Rady Children’s Health Orange County, formerly CHOC.
Carrying on a Young Boy’s Legacy, One LEGO at a Time
For more than 13 years, Sgt. Pepperoni’s Pizza Store has delivered joy—and plenty of LEGOs—to our oncology patients, supporting the child life specialists who help build hope and healing throughout treatment.
Celebrating Denise Ogawa’s Decade at the CHOC Foundation
In the following Q&A, Denise, senior director of philanthropy, shares what has inspired her throughout her 10-year career at the CHOC Foundation, the moments that have shaped her work, and the lessons she carries forward.







