Tom and Margaret Larkin first became involved with Hoag in 2005. Now generous benefactors and supporters of the Hoag Hospital Foundation, they’re soaring with enthusiasm for the important programs being developed at Hoag – including diabetes.
“When we moved down here I began talking with (trustee) Ginny Ueberroth about becoming involved,” said Margaret, a Hoag Hospital Foundation Board member. “That’s how it all started.” Tom, a longtime investment manager, suffers with adult-onset diabetes, and the couple view the Mary & Dick Allen Diabetes Center as one that significantly helps all who are affected. What impresses Tom about the Center is Kris V. Iyer, M.D., F.A.C.P., F.A.C.E., Senior Vice President, Chief Administrative Officer HMTS. Tom has great faith in Dr. Iyer, and the two share a common health issue: diabetes.
With diabetes, comprehensive care includes several components: identifying people who are at risk, educating them about staying healthy, and care. “The focus of the Allen Diabetes Center is on education and care,” Margaret said. “The fact that they won’t turn anyone away, regardless of their ability to pay, means a lot to us.”
Prior to the opening of the Mary & Dick Allen Diabetes Center in June of 2009, children with diabetes in Hoag’s service area often waited up to four months to see a pediatric endocrinologist. With support from the Larkin’s through the Margaret & Tom Larkin Pediatric Endowment Fund, today the CHOC Children’s Clinic at the Allen Diabetes Center offers same-day appointments, close relationships with staff and much shorter drive times for families. Thoughtfully designed with easy access to the kitchen and exercise room, the CHOC Children’s Clinic has greatly expanded its care of children with, and at risk for, diabetes.
It is because of the compassion and generosity of people like Margaret and Tom Larkin that the Mary & Dick Allen Diabetes Center is able to offer pediatric and adult endocrinology care, education, and support services for children with diabetes and their families.
To learn how you can help make a difference at the Allen Diabetes Center, visit www.hoaghospitalfoundation.org.
