Pomona Valley Hospital Medical Center Foundation Celebrated The Legacy Of Recently Retired Medical Director At 25th Annual Heartbeat Gala

Pomona Valley Hospital Medical Center (PVHMC) celebrated the 32 year legacy of Dr. Rama Thumati, M.D., F.S.C.A.I., during its 25^th annual Heartbeat Gala on March 23 at the DoubleTree Hotel in Ontario, where 415 guests gathered to raised funds to support the Hospital’s Stead Heart and Vascular Center Endowment Fund. Since its start, the annual event has raised over $2.4 million to support the nationally recognized center of excellence.

Dr. Thumati, who recently stepped down from his role as Medical Director of Cardiac Services was honored at the evening’s festivities. As a visionary clinical expert who has worked to advance regional cardiovascular care, Dr. Thumati played a key role in the development and success of the Stead Heart and Vascular Center. “Dr. Thumati’s commitment to excellence and belief that the region deserved high-quality care and a Center of Excellence with state-of-the-art technology is what gave the Stead Heart and Vascular Center life. Our Associates, many who were mentored by Dr. Thumati, are inspired to carry on what he achieved for the Hospital,” said Richard E. Yochum, FACHE, President/CEO.

Attendees were welcomed to start off the evening with a cocktail reception, themed basket raffle, and silent auction prior to dinner. Following dinner, guests were treated to the interactive performance that was part magic, part concert and part stand-up comedy by illusionist Adam Trent. Trent showcased his skills as an entertainer and wowed guests with unbelievable illusions.

In addition to this, guests were invited to hear success stories from two patients who have received life-saving care from PVHMC physicians. Mary Kennedy, a heart attack survivor who had what those in the medical field call a “widowmaker,” discussed how grateful she is to have her life back in her hands thanks to the team at PVHMC. Patrick Shaner, a patient in need of an endovascular aneurysm repair, expressed his amazement at how smoothly the surgery went due to the expertise of the associates at PVHMC.

For more than 30 years, PVHMC’s Stead Heart and Vascular Center has offered one of the most complete lines of cardiovascular and stroke services in Los Angeles and San Bernardino counties. PVHMC’s heart and vascular center has been recognized by the Joint Commission with the Gold Seal of Approval™ as a Primary Stroke Center and Healthgrades recently recognized the Hospital with a 5-star rating for multiple procedures and treatments including Coronary Bypass Surgery, Back Surgery, Treatment of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, Carotid Procedures, and Gallbladder Removal Surgery.