Grateful for the extraordinary care her grandson Lincoln received at Rady Children’s Hospital, Linda Matthews felt inspired to give back. Her decision to designate part of her estate to support Rady Children’s stems from deep appreciation for the hospital’s doctors, staff, and everyone who played a role in saving Lincoln’s life.
Born with a rare heart condition — having only one pumping chamber instead of two — Lincoln required multiple open-heart surgeries at Rady Children’s renowned Heart Institute. Thanks to pioneering technology and philanthropic support, his physicians were able to plan precise surgical treatments, leading to a remarkable outcome.
Linda’s commitment goes beyond gratitude — it’s a vision for the future. By naming Rady Children’s as a partial beneficiary of her trust, she became a proud member of 1954 Society, a group of forwardthinking donors whose legacy ensures exceptional pediatric care for generations to come.
She encourages others to consider how they, too, can make a difference. “Some people think, ‘I don’t have a million dollars, so my gift won’t matter.’ I don’t believe that,” Linda says. “If more people give — no matter the amount — even modest contributions add up, making a real difference in a child’s life and the vital work of Rady Children’s.”
Linda marvels at the rapid medical advancements — like the complex 3D models of hearts, spines, and brains produced by the Helen and Will Webster Foundation 3D Innovations Lab at Rady Children’s — that helped Lincoln lead an active life. Today, Lincoln is a thriving 13-year-old who excels in school and sports. “He recently competed in an adult golf tournament and won,” Linda proudly shares. “It’s a joy to watch Lincoln and my other grandchildren thrive. We have Rady Children’s to thank for this.”
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