Los Angeles City Council honors USC Brain Tumor Center for innovative patient care

Community spirit and healthcare innovation took center stage at the Los Angeles City Council meeting on May 30, 2025, as council members celebrated local initiatives and recognized the vital work of the USC Brain Tumor Center.

Council member Bob Bloomfield highlighted the importance of community events, particularly those honoring veterans in the San Fernando Valley. "It's just something we do for our community," he said, emphasizing the significance of these gatherings in fostering connections and creating lasting memories for young people. His remarks were met with applause, underscoring the event's impact on local pride and veteran recognition.

Following this, council member Adrin Nazarian introduced a presentation from the USC Brain Tumor Center, which is dedicated to improving the lives of brain tumor patients through advanced surgical techniques and personalized treatment plans. Nazarian noted that May is Brain Tumor Awareness Month, making the acknowledgment particularly timely. He shared that nearly one million Americans are currently living with a primary brain tumor, a condition that poses significant challenges for patients and their families.

Dr. Gabriel Zeta, director of the USC Brain Tumor Center, expressed gratitude for the council's support, stating, "It takes a team effort to take care of patients and caregivers who are struggling with these life-changing diseases." He emphasized the center's commitment to developing better therapies and long-term treatments, which are crucial for improving patient outcomes.

The meeting also featured heartfelt stories from council members, including a tribute to Valentina Hernandez, a young girl who lost her battle with a brain tumor. Her family's ongoing hope for a cure highlighted the importance of research and community support in the fight against cancer.

As the council concluded the session, the recognition of the USC Brain Tumor Center and the celebration of community initiatives underscored a shared commitment to health, healing, and the power of togetherness in Los Angeles.