Diana Kranz’s stay at La Rabida as a child has stuck with her for a long time. In 1965 at just eight years old, she was treated at La Rabida for rheumatic fever. Her experience inspired her to give back to the hospital to celebrate a milestone birthday in a big way.

“The nurses and staff even back then knew that I was scared and helped to calm me down,” said Kranz.

“I remember being in isolation where I couldn’t see anyone, or they had to wear medical gowns and masks to visit. Sometimes, I could only see family from the room window.  But as bad as that memory is, I remember how caring the staff was and how they helped me adjust.”

Recently, Diana celebrated her 75th birthday.  Instead of gifts, she asked a group of 80 of her friends and family that gathered for the celebration to make donations to La Rabida. 

“My Dad always told me how wonderful La Rabida was — they didn’t charge my parents the extra money that the insurance didn’t pay out,” said Kranz.

“It was important for me to give back to the hospital that helped me be alive for my 75th birthday and to see my son and grandsons grow up. Like so many children back then, I might not be here if not for La Rabida.”

Kranz grew up to work for a home builder in the suburbs of Chicago. She started out as a receptionist and worked her way up from Office Manager, to HR, and eventually facility manager. She retired ten years ago and now lives in Arizona.  Thank you, Diana!