Leslie Crane finds compassionate care at Providence Holy Cross Medical Center after a devastating horseback riding accident

An accomplished horsewoman with 50 years of riding experience, Leslie Crane and her horse were practicing jumps when something went terribly wrong. After a small jump, her horse unexpectedly rodeo-bucked, sending Leslie flying into a wooden box.

Although her breathing was labored, and speaking became challenging, she made a clear request to the responding paramedics. “I knew I was hurt badly,” remembers Leslie. “And I also knew that Providence Holy Cross was where I wanted to be treated.”

She made the right choice. The Providence Holy Cross trauma center is one of the few Level II trauma centers in Los Angeles, enabling it to provide the highest level of care for injured
patients. The trauma team sprang into action. An assessment revealed devastating injuries, including a collapsed lung, 10 broken ribs, two fractures in her pelvis and fluid buildup in her
swollen heart.

During her 10-day stay, Leslie experienced firsthand the exceptional care and dedication of the caregivers at Providence Holy Cross. “The medical center and the staff literally saved
my life,” she says. Leslie formed strong bonds with trauma surgeon Evan Valle, M.D., whose daily visits and compassionate care provided her with comfort and reassurance.

Leslie adds, “Dr. Valle was there for me every day. The entire staff, from nurses to housekeeping, were pleasant and professional. The mission is evident in every person who works there.”

Paying it forward
That was in March 2022. In 2023, Leslie joined Providence Holy Cross Foundation board, dedicating her time and efforts to advancing the medical center’s mission. Recognizing the
critical need for trauma care, Leslie made a planned gift to support the trauma department.

“Having a medical center with advanced capabilities like Providence Holy Cross is important for this community,” she says. “It’s excellent from top to bottom. The technology
and the doctors who practice there are incredible. It’s the hidden gem of the Valley.”

Leslie is back to hiking with her husband and their Great Dane and continues to compete in hunter-jumper shows with her horse. “I couldn’t be more grateful,” Leslie smiles. “I’m back in the saddle today because of Providence Holy Cross.”