Mary Bridge Children's Hospital was established in 1955, through the perseverance of the dedicated women of the Tacoma Orthopedic Association (now the Mary Bridge Brigade). They were convinced of the need for a specialized health care center in Tacoma to serve the children of the South Puget Sound region. Key funding came from the estate of Dr. Albert W. Bridge, a pioneer physician who practiced in Eatonville and Tacoma. The hospital was named for his mother.

Today, Mary Bridge Children's Hospital & Health Center is the only pediatric hospital in the South Sound dedicated to caring for the special health needs of the children. From open-heart surgery to asthma treatment, cancer care to diabetes, Mary Bridge specializes in advanced care for children. At Mary Bridge, we offer specialized pediatric care, equipment and facilities that aren't available in most communities. When a child receives care at Mary Bridge, our specialists work closely with local pediatricians or primary care providers, making sure children receive the care they need. With its family-centered care philosophy, Mary Bridge provides services and accommodations for families in a child-friendly environment - a place where kids get better quicker.