Adventist Health in Central California

12/20/2025

"Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself." — Matthew 6:34

12/19/2025

Between making sure you’re shopping for and taking care of everything (and everyone) on your list, the holiday season can feel more stressful than festive. So, this year, why not take some time to de-stress and focus on the things that matter most — you may even find that it’s easier to help others find their happy holiday place, too.

And since stress can be a risk factor for everything from heart disease to anxiety and depression, managing it has long-lasting benefits. Check out our blog for the five tips for reducing your holiday stress this season.

The holidays are a wonderful time to give thanks and spend time with family, but let’s face it: It can be a stressful time, too. So this year, why not take some time to de-stress and focus on the things that matter most — you may even find that it’s easier to help others find their happy holid...

12/19/2025

Join host Japhet De Oliveira as he sits down with Sheri Dungan, System Emergency Department Specialist at Adventist Health, for an inspiring conversation about embracing joy, the power of gratitude, building meaningful relationships, and the intentional choices that shape a purpose-filled life.

Listen here: ahlink.org/453BmWx

12/19/2025

We are thankful for everyone who joined us for Light Up a Life and helped create such a meaningful evening of remembrance and hope. Together, we honored loved ones and shared in moments of reflection that truly touched the heart. From our community members to the dedicated staff, volunteers, and partners behind the scenes, this event would not have been possible without you. Thank you for coming together with us.

12/18/2025

During the holidays, our team at Adventist Health Ukiah Valley comes together for one of our favorite traditions — giving back to our community. In partnership with the Mendocino County Office of Education, we’re able to bring joy to local foster and unhoused students.

This year, we filled our Giving Tree with 120 tags, each with the age and wishes of a local foster student and our team responded in a big way!

Hundreds of gifts started pouring in, requiring multiple deliveries! We’re so excited to be able to give back and bring joy to local foster and unhoused students so they know are loved especially during the holidays. Thank you to our team and thank you to MCOE for allowing us to be part of this heartwarming tradition.

12/18/2025

This holiday season, we send our warmest wishes as you celebrate cherished traditions with family and friends.

12/17/2025

At Adventist Health Simi Valley, our Robotics Program, led by Dr. Andrea Pakula, continues to attract experienced surgeons and medical teams from around the region who come to observe, learn, and become familiar with the latest advancements in robotic surgery, including the da Vinci 5 system.

We want to take a moment to shout out and thank Dr. Pakula and our surgical and perioperative teams for their ongoing commitment to education and innovation. By welcoming visiting surgeons each month and openly sharing knowledge and best practices, they help expand expertise, strengthen confidence in new technology, and elevate the standard of care far beyond our hospital walls.

These efforts don’t just advance medicine — they ultimately benefit patients and communities, ensuring more people have access to safer, more precise, and minimally invasive surgical care.

We’re proud to be a place where learning is shared, innovation thrives, and excellence inspires others.

12/17/2025

Still scrolling? Stop and take a moment for yourself and try these breathing exercises.

Studies show that slow, controlled breathing can have several physiological benefits, including alleviating symptoms of anxiety and depression, reducing blood pressure, and improving pain management.

For just a moment, sit back, relax, and take a deep breath.

12/16/2025

The Quick Care office at Visalia Medical Clinic is here for your family when you need it.
We are open after hours and on the weekends.
We can care for non-life-threatening conditions for all ages that include:

• Ear infections
• Cold, Fever, Flu
• Minor burns and cuts
• Skin infections and rashes
• UTI symptoms
• And much more

We are open seven days a week and are located at the east entrance at 5400 W. Hillsdale Ave., in Visalia.

We accept most commercial insurances and are available on a walk-in basis.
Learn more visit: https://ahlink.org/3L2STYc

12/16/2025

Family traditions are a central part of the holiday season. Adventist Health team member Lisa Wegley learned to make tamales at her grandmother’s side, and she now shares the joy of creating together with her work and church communities.

In this video, Lisa shares how making tamales has expanded her definition of family and reminded her that quality time with those you love is always most important.

Want to start a new tradition and make tamales with your family? Find Lisa’s recipe and how-to tips here: ahlink.org/4aDiKAa

12/15/2025

12/15/2025

Many people who are struggling with their mental health aren’t getting the help they need. One common reason we see this is that they are uncomfortable talking about their struggles with mental health and how they are feeling, even with those closest to them. If you notice these signs in a friend or loved one, they may need help. Visit ahlink.org/3AmNFRV for more red flags to look for and tips to have an open, compassionate conversation about it.

12/15/2025

Many people who are struggling with their mental health aren’t getting the help they need. One common reason we see this is that they are uncomfortable talking about their struggles with mental health and how they are feeling, even with those closest to them. If you notice these signs in a friend or loved one, they may need help. Visit ahlink.org/3AmNFRV for more red flags to look for and tips to have an open, compassionate conversation about it.

12/12/2025

Imee Dahl, the Operations and Patient Care Executive at Adventist Health St. Helena, joins host Japhet De Oliveira for an enriching conversation about who influenced her value of education and philanthropy, her definition of community, and reflections on impactful relationships.

Listen here: ahlink.org/3KAM4Np

12/11/2025

An annual wellness visit is a simple way to stay ahead of your health. In this segment, Dr. Rebecca Kawagoe highlights why this visit matters by helping you catch concerns early, stay informed, and build a strong foundation for the year ahead. She also reminds us that it is not too late to schedule your appointment and make your health a priority.

Visit AdventistHealth.org/Doctors to find a doctor near you and schedule an appointment.

12/11/2025

Want to know a gift that keeps on giving? Good health! Staying up to date on your family’s flu shots is one way to help make that happen. Schedule an appointment with your family’s provider and arm yourself against the flu, just like Pip. Visit: AdventistHealth.org/Doctors

12/10/2025

Both boys and girls experience depression and anxiety, but that doesn’t mean their warning signs look the same. Amanda Fletcher, LCSW, talks about how girls typically turn their feelings inward; they may feel sadness, worry, guilt, and experience physical symptoms. While boys often express their feelings outwardly, by showing anger, irritability, increased risky behaviors, or acting out.

While these are typical signs of depression and anxiety in boys and girls, you know your child best. If you see any concerning changes that are persistent in their mood, temperament, or school performance, we encourage you to reach out to your child’s healthcare provider and share with them the changes you are seeing.

12/10/2025

What if a bowl of soup didn’t just satisfy your hunger? What if it also filled your heart with memories, warmth, and a feeling of deep love?

In this video, see why for Adventist Health team member Ariel Armanino, the holidays mean a bustling kitchen and creating a meal for those you love.

She’s sharing her grandfather’s Minestrone Soup recipe, a healthy, hearty dish perfect for gathering around the table during the winter season. Find the recipe here: ahlink.org/44vBnT9

12/10/2025

From Tehachapi to Selma to Hanford and beyond, our Adventist Health teams joined Christmas parades all across the Central Valley! Supporting our local communities isn’t just something we do during the holidays — it’s part of who we are every day.

As John 10:10 reminds us, “I have come that they may have life, and have it abundantly.” That purpose guides every float, every smile, and every moment we get to share with you this season. We’re grateful for the opportunity to celebrate together and to serve you and your families throughout the year. ❤️