Keck Medicine of USC showed its heart on Valentine’s Day.

Physicians, nurses and staff members across the health system purchased more than 2,000 Valentine’s Day grams for $1 each, showing appreciation for their colleagues while generating money to support the local community surrounding the Health Sciences Campus and USC Verdugo Hills Hospital.

The approximately $2,000 raised from the Valentine’s Day gram fundraiser will support the YMCA near USC-VHH and the Hazard Park Community Center, helping fund activities for children to increase their physical activity.

While the event raised money for the local community, the Valentine’s Day grams also raised the spirits of recipients. Each Valentine’s Day gram was filled with chocolates and candy, along with a handwritten note.

“In my many years in healthcare, I have never been so completely surprised as when I received my Valentine Gram,” said Risk Management Director Kevin Wagner. “It was wonderful to feel so appreciated.”

The Valentine’s Day gram event was made possible thanks to the Keck Hospital Spirit Team, Patient Experience team and USC-VHH volunteers.

— Douglas Morino