The free event welcomes families, caregivers, and supporters for games, activities, and community-building fun. It’s more than a party, it’s a tribute to the founders and to five decades of dedication to kids’ health.
How Pediatric Healthcare Started in Bend, Oregon
In the early 1970s, Bend looked very different. With just 15,000 residents and only a few medical providers, specialized care for children was limited. There was no pediatric ward in the first St. Charles Hospital, then located on NW Franklin Avenue. Families had to travel to Portland when their kids got seriously ill, but Dr. Mary Brown saw a better way. “I knew we could do more,” Dr. Brown said.
Her residency training included the emerging science of neonatology, and she brought skills of infant ventilation and critical care to the small town. In 1975, she opened a 700-square-foot pediatric clinic with just three exam rooms on NE 3rd Street. That year, she was instrumental in making sure the newly built St. Charles Medical Center on Neff Road included a pediatric ward—it wasn’t in the original plans, but she converted a storage room on the fifth floor into two rooms. Dr. Brown helped bring in the first infant ventilator, called a “Baby Bird,” to Central Oregon. She believed that Bend kids deserved the same high-quality care as children in larger cities, and her goal was to keep kids healthy and close to home.
One year later, Dr. John Chunn, an infectious disease specialist, joined her. He shared her vision that they could do more. “We were both trained to take care of the sickest kids,” said Dr. Chunn. “It was possible to treat them right here in Bend versus sending them away.” Sue Stanley played an important role as their first nurse and administrator.
Together, they built something extraordinary.
A Clinic with a Mission That Still Guides the Work
The small clinic has grown to include upwards of 35 pediatricians, physician assistants, nurse practitioners, and clinicians on its healthcare team, but its core values remain unchanged. This clinic is still committed to individualized care for all children in Central Oregon, inclusive of all backgrounds, needs, and medical complexities. It believes every child matters, that all families deserve access to exceptional care, and that pediatric health is a lifelong journey.
“I didn’t realize what I was creating back then,” said Dr. Brown. “I just knew it was important to focus on the kids and not forget what it means to be with a family that is struggling. I love what COPA has become.”
A Full Range of Pediatric Services in Central Oregon
Today, families trust the clinics not just for expert care, but for compassion, respect, and a deep understanding of what children need to thrive. As Dr. Brown explained, the job of a pediatrician is an honor: “Once you get in a room with a 5 year old, you forget about other things.” As the region has grown, so has the reach and expertise. The practice now offers:
Services were created with families and children in mind. Whether your child has a high fever at 10 p.m. or a sprained ankle on a Sunday, access to trusted care is efficient, accessible, and built for kids of all ages.
When 24-Hour Nurse Advice Can Make a Difference
Imagine it’s the middle of the night. Your toddler has a sudden cough and a high fever, and you’re not sure whether to head to the emergency room or wait until morning.
That’s when COPA Kids’ 24/7 Nurse Advice Line becomes a lifeline. A pediatric-trained nurse talks you through symptoms, offers real-time guidance, answers your questions, and helps you decide the right next steps.
Sometimes it’s at-home care and a nurse will talk you through it. Other times, it’s a recommendation to be seen urgently. Either way, a nurse advice line offers peace of mind. You’re never alone.
What to Expect from COPA’s Kids Care: Expert Care for Urgent Concerns
Weekends and evenings are when kids always seem to get sick or injured. COPA Kids’ Care offers expert urgent pediatric care without the high cost and stress of an emergency room visit. Healthcare emergencies can’t always wait until Monday.
Maybe your 6-year-old has a sudden earache on Saturday morning. What if your teenager sprains their ankle during a soccer game? You can quickly schedule online for easy access to evening and weekend visits with a trusted pediatric expert.
Bring your children to COPA Kids’ Care for faster recovery and less worry.
Locally Owned Pediatricians Who Know the Community
One of the things families love most about COPA is its inclusive care for all children. Unlike many large healthcare systems, they remain locally owned and financially independent. This matters. It means decisions are made in Central Oregon, by providers who live here and understand the families they serve.
The team is committed to inclusive care. Every child, inclusive of their race, gender identity, background, and ability, receives compassionate and personalized attention.
“We determine our own future,” says Dr. Chunn. “That means we can keep doing what’s best for the kids, always.”
From Curious Toddlers to Confident Teens
Central Oregon Pediatrics Associates has always believed in the power of connection. That starts with seeing each child as unique, curious, imaginative, and full of potential. “Our approach has always been very individual and down to earth,” said Dr. Brown.
From your baby’s first check-up to helping your teen prepare for college, the early vision of care means providers support families through every milestone and stage of life of a child’s life.
They believe that kids aren’t simply small adults; healthcare isn’t just about treating illnesses. It’s about helping kids develop positive, life-long attitudes about their health and wellness.
Building a Healthy Future—Together
The vision that began in a tiny three-room clinic has expanded into a trusted, multi-location practice serving tens of thousands of Central Oregon families. Yet the heart of Central Oregon Pediatrics Associates remains the same: Compassionate care. Local connection. Expert guidance for every stage of childhood.
“The joy of pediatrics is knowing you played a part in the life of someone; that the things you did or said made a difference in the person they’ve become,” said Dr. Brown. “Being a pediatrician is the best job in the world.”
As COPA Kids celebrates 50 years, it looks forward to serving the next generation of young patients as they grow, learn, and thrive. We invite you to attend the COPA 50th Celebration:
A community event with activities, music, and more
