Indio mural honors LLUCH patient Desi Cechin, keeping her legacy alive

Community members gathered outside Loma Linda University Children's Hospital's Indio clinic to unveil a mural that honors a young life on Monday, March 16.

The Desi Memorial Mural pays tribute to Desirae "Desi" Ava Grace Cechin, an Indio resident who died at age 6 after battling Stage IV high-risk neuroblastoma.

Artist Patrick Barwinski painted the mural, capturing themes of strength, hope and love, the qualities family members and hospital leaders said defined Desi's life. Barwinski incorporated elements inspired by Desi, including her eyes and her favorite colors, as a tribute to her life and courage.

The mural also incorporates augmented reality technology, allowing visitors to use their smartphones to watch the artwork come to life through an interactive digital layer.

Indio Mayor Elaine Holmes joined LLUCH Senior Vice President and Administrator Peter Baker, Barwinski, and Desi's family at the ceremony, reflecting on the impact Desi's story has had on the community.

"It's been 10 years since our daughter Desi passed away, so it's a lot of emotions," said her mother Laura Palada said. "I feel a lot of love and support from the community. If Desi were here today, she would be very excited and think how cool seeing the butterflies on the mural are. I think she'd be very happy."

The interactive mural is located at 82934 Civic Center Drive in Indio and is open for the community to visit.

Desi received care at Loma Linda University Children's Hospital, which treats more than 2,200 children from the Coachella Valley each year. The hospital also established its Indio clinic in partnership with SAC Health to expand access to pediatric care for families across the region.