Pioneers Memorial Hospital Hosts 20th Annual Fall Gala; Margaret Award presented to Catalina Alcantra-Santillan

On October 17, 2024, the Pioneers Memorial Hospital Foundation (PMH) gathered the community for its 20th Annual Fall Gala. Held at the PMH, the evening featured a gourmet dinner, live music, a live art auction, and a heartfelt recognition, all aimed at raising funds to support healthcare initiatives in the Imperial Valley.

Guests enjoyed a gourmet dinner featuring steak, shrimp, and a variety of appetizers before the art auction kicked off. The auction included standout sales like a fine art print of waves purchased by Dr. Ail Sharif for $850, which he then generously donated back, allowing it to be re-sold for $450 to Dr. George Fareed. Another highlight was a photo book donated by Bill Gates, which sold for $2,150 to Valerie. Several pieces found new owners throughout the evening, generating significant funds for the hospital.

Thanks to the generosity of attendees and auction participants, the event raised a substantial total of $85,000, which will support various programs and improvements at Pioneers Memorial Hospital.

Catalina Alcantra-Santillan Honored with the Margaret Award

A key moment of the night came with the presentation of the Margaret Award to Catalina Alcantra-Santillan. Catalina, a lifelong Brawley resident and the president of the PMH board, was recognized for her decades of commitment to healthcare and community service.

Catalina’s journey in healthcare began in the 1970s at Clinicas de Salud, where she worked in the accounting department and later moved into human resources. Her passion for healthcare led her to Pioneers Memorial Hospital, where she played a pivotal role in launching the home health care program, which provided essential services to those who could not easily access the hospital. In 1983, she took over the management of the Imperial Valley Healthcare Corporation, transforming it from a small operation serving 50 clients into a thriving business with over 1,700 clients across the state.

Her contributions have gone beyond business growth; Catalina has been instrumental in numerous hospital improvements, including expanding the operating rooms, establishing a catheterization lab, and bringing in cutting-edge technology like the da Vinci surgical system. Her commitment to the hospital has spanned nearly three decades, during which she advocated for projects benefiting the community, especially women’s health and elderly care.

Marvin Lewis, who presented the award, spoke to the depth of her accomplishments and dedication: “Katie’s always been a fierce advocate. She’s been a champion for those who are often unheard for the community and a whole.”

Catalina, touched by the honor, humbly deflected praise onto others. “We wouldn’t have this hospital if it wasn’t for you,” she said. She thanked the staff, board members, and community supporters for their ongoing efforts to keep the hospital thriving.