$700,000 Raised for LLUCH at Barrett Jackson Car Auction

A 1957 Lincoln Continental Mark II sold for $700,000 at Barrett Jackson, “The World’s Greatest Collector Car Auctions” on Sept. 26 at the Las Vegas auction. Not only did the classic car earn the highest bid at the event, but all proceeds from the sale will go to Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital (LLUCH). Classic car collectors Tom and Candace Spiel, from Riverside, donated the classic car to the auction—their third car in the history of the auction benefiting the hospital. “Tom and I are thrilled that this beautiful car could be an instrument to raise much-needed funds to help children receive life-saving care at Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital,” Mrs. Spiel said. “We are grateful for this opportunity to bring attention to the wonderful difference the Children’s Hospital makes in the lives of children in the community and throughout the world.” Tom and Diane Day, from Newport Beach, were the winning bidders on the 1957 Lincoln, and coincidentally, this is the second car they have purchased from a Barrett Jackson auction that benefited LLUCH. “We are extremely thankful to Barrett Jackson for hosting such a remarkable event,” said LLUCH administrator Zareh Sarrafian. “Our immense appreciation goes out to the donors of the car, Mr. and Mrs. Spiel, as well as Mr. and Mrs. Day. Their contribution to this hospital will make a difference to so many young lives. The Loma Linda family is beyond blessed to have people like them to support us.” Prior to the auction, the crowd was given an enthusiastic welcome by Kimie Metcalf, an 8-year-old cancer survivor and patient from LLUCH. “Hello Barrett Jackson participants!” She then briefly shared her courageous story. “Doctors gave me only a 30 to 40 percent chance of surviving. Well, here I am!” Tears flowed freely in the crowd after hearing Kimie speak. “The doctors at Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital saved my life and took care of me like I was their own family. I would like to thank the Barrett Jackson auction for letting us be a part of this amazing event and the generous car donors. Without the help of a lot of special people like you, LLUCH wouldn’t be able to save lives just like mine.” Richard Chinnock, MD chief of pediatrics at LLUCH, also attended the auction and was inspired by the events that occurred. “Kimie is an inspiration to us all,” he said. “She is a true testament to the work that our physicians and nurses strive to do every day. We do what we do for the kids, and it is made possible through amazing contributions like this.”