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Partner Content NOVEMBER 22, 2023

PSYONIC, CREATOR OF THE WORLD’S MOST POWERFUL BIONIC HAND, NOW CALLS SAN DIEGO HOME

PSYONIC, the company behind the world’s first touch-sensing bionic hand, recently moved its headquarters to Scripps Ranch in San Diego, California from Chicago, Illinois with the support of JLL, a Fortune 200 and San Diego-based commercial real estate firm.

PSYONIC, CREATOR OF THE WORLD’S MOST POWERFUL BIONIC HAND, NOW CALLS SAN DIEGO HOME
Screenshot 2023-11-28 at 1.55.40 PM

By JLL San Diego 

PSYONIC, the company behind the world’s first touch-sensing bionic hand, recently moved its headquarters to Scripps Ranch in San Diego, California from Chicago, Illinois with the support of JLL, a Fortune 200 and San Diego-based commercial real estate firm. JLL helped the company search for a new home, identify suitable buildings, tour options virtually, and negotiate favorable lease terms.

The move comes at a time when the company is developing its most ambitious developments to bionic limbs and seeking opportunities to partner with the regions thriving MedTech community and leading orthopedic departments at the Naval Medical Center and UC San Diego.

“My goal is to turn San Diego into the bionics capital of the world where everyone comes here to get the latest and greatest in bionic limbs,” said PSYONIC founder and CEO Aadeel Akhtar.

How and where it all started

Dr. Aadeel Akhtar was seven years old when he first started thinking about prosthetics and imagining what it would mean to help people with limb differences unleash the best in themselves. While visiting Pakistan, he met an amputee for the first time. She was his age and didn’t have the same access to healthcare. 

It was striking, even to a kid. How could they share a heritage but have such different lives? As he grew older, he came to understand the vast discrepancies in resources that people have around the world and right here in the United States. And so, he started PSYONIC while in graduate school to help develop advanced prostheses that are affordable for everyone.

What began as a small group of engineers now includes public health experts, social workers, and designers along with an incredible group of doctors, clinicians, and non-profits working in the developing world.

America’s Finest City: a hotbed for innovation, talent, and opportunities 

In addition to the regions established MedTech community, San Diego’s military presence, access to advancements in processors and proximity to Los Angeles make it a prime location for its new headquarters. 

PSYONIC worked closely with JLL to locate a flex-office space including a mix of modern work areas, a warehouse and manufacturing space along the I-15 corridor – a strategic location home to top universities and engineering talent. JLL’s keen understanding of the region and its 3-D visualization and mapping technology, Blackbird, helped PSYONIC identify sites for talent, take virtual tours and access key data such as availability, rental rates and building class – ultimately helping the company refine its search and make a selection that best fit its needs. 

So, what’s next? 

The company is working on new technologies right here in our backyard to be released in five years. PSYONIC is partnering with local organizations and surgeons studying how to directly integrate bionic limbs with patients’ bones and researchers specializing in nerve implants to enable users to control individual fingers. This advancement will allow users to play instruments again, type on a keyboard and more.

PSYONIC is also developing hands for robotics applications and companies like Meta, Apptronik and NASA who have ordered The Ability Hand™ to develop robots to complete human tasks.

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Studio S OCTOBER 22, 2026

Milan Design + Build Helps San Diegans Remodel Their Homes

The San Diego home remodeling company works on full homes, kitchens, bathrooms, home additions, ADUs, garages, landscapes, and hardscapes.

Milan Design + Build Helps San Diegans Remodel Their Homes
Courtesy of Milan Design

Most homeowners want two things before they commit to a remodel: a realistic sense of cost and a clear picture of what the finished space will look like. Milan Design + Build helps deliver both through its online remodeling estimator and personalized design consultations, supported by a showroom experience and 3D renderings.

“The online estimate gives homeowners a starting number in about a minute, and the showroom and 3D renderings let them see materials and layouts before anything is built,” says David Noriani, CEO of Milan Design + Build. “Keeping design, permits, and construction with one team helps us manage expectations and keep everyone working toward the same vision.”

Courtesy of Milan Design

Modern design is a particular focus for Milan, with an emphasis on clean lines, natural light, functional layouts, and carefully selected materials. The team adapts each design to the homeowner’s lifestyle and the character of the property. Milan Design + Build combines thoughtful design with construction expertise, creating spaces that are as functional as they are beautiful.

The online estimator covers kitchen remodels, bathroom renovations, full-home remodels, and ADU construction. At Milan’s showroom on Carroll Road, visitors can review real materials, finishes, and design options, meet the design-build team, and discuss project scope, budget, and timing. Consultations can also be held virtually for homeowners who prefer to start remotely.

At Milan Design + Build, one integrated team works on the entire project. Design and construction aren’t divided between separate firms. The process begins with a consultation and feasibility review, followed by design, space planning, and 3D renderings developed from detailed measurements and digital scans. The team also coordinates architectural plans, structural engineering, city approvals, and material selection, with construction overseen by a dedicated project manager.

Homeowners can explore their remodeling options, get an initial estimate, or request a design consultation at MilanBuild.com.

Courtesy of Milan Design

Partner Content
Partner Content OCTOBER 29, 2026

Clinical Research: The Other Side of Patient Care

Clinical trials and physician-initiated studies bring new, innovative treatments to patients sooner

Clinical Research: The Other Side of Patient Care
Courtesy of Scripps Health

At any given time, there are roughly 200 research investigations and clinical trials being conducted at Scripps Health in as many as 25 medical specialties. Research and patient care go hand-in-hand at Scripps. Those studies can be categorized as clinical trials of a medication or device that are conducted by Scripps physicians and studies designed by Scripps’ physicians and clinicians. Click here to learn about three exciting studies underway at Scripps and the benefits to patients. 

For more nutrition, wellness, and healthy living tips, sign up for the San Diego Health newsletter here.

Partner Content
Partner Content OCTOBER 29, 2026

Healthcare in the Palm of Your Hand

New MyScripps mobile app features give patients more options to connect with their provider

Healthcare in the Palm of Your Hand
Courtesy of Scripps Health

Scripps has recently unveiled new features in the MyScripps patient portal and mobile app to help patients connect with their primary care team and simplify the payment process. Among the recent updates is the addition of primary care E-visits for minor conditions. Patients who have an established primary care physician can schedule an E-visit, complete an online questionnaire and, if needed, send a photo. Their doctor can then advise and prescribe medication, when appropriate. Autopay is also now available through MyScripps. Patients can enable or disable autopay, allowing them to more easily manage payments. Learn more about MyScripps and how it helps patients stay connected here. 

For more nutrition, wellness, and healthy living tips, sign up for the San Diego Health newsletter here.

Partner Content
Partner Content OCTOBER 29, 2026

Serving Up a Second Chance

A cancer diagnosis forced a Carlsbad woman to prioritize her health. Now she’s using her story to inspire others.

Serving Up a Second Chance
Courtesy of Scripps Health

Farrah Adams had a persistent dull ache in her lower back that her massage therapist suggested might be caused by the way she sat or drove. That explanation seemed reasonable, but when coupled with heavy, painful periods led the then 46-year-old to seek answers. When she looks back on it now, she’s beyond grateful she trusted her gut. She made an appointment with a Scripps OB-GYN, who determined she had Stage 3 cervical cancer that had spread to several lymph nodes. Farrah was overwhelmed, but immediately found a “champion” in Scripps Clinic gynecologic oncologist Jo Marie Tran Janco, MD. After undergoing successful treatment at Scripps Cancer Center, Farrah is now using her story to inspire other women to make time for care. Read more of her story here. 

For more nutrition, wellness, and healthy living tips, sign up for the San Diego Health newsletter here.

Partner Content
Partner Content OCTOBER 22, 2026

Association of Fundraising Professionals San Diego To Recognize 11 Honorees at 54th Annual National Philanthropy Day in November

This year’s theme, 'Impact Through Philanthropy,’ spotlights the impact of individuals, businesses and community organizations throughout San Diego County.

Association of Fundraising Professionals San Diego To Recognize 11 Honorees at 54th Annual National Philanthropy Day in November
Courtesy of AFP

On Friday, November 13, 2026, more than 1,000 community, business, nonprofit and philanthropic leaders will gather at the Manchester Grand Hyatt for AFP San Diego’s 54th Annual National Philanthropy Day, presented by PNC Bank.

“Impact through Philanthropy isn’t just a theme; it’s what we see every day in San Diego’s diverse communities,” said Ingrid de Llamas, CFRE, IAP, AFP San Diego chapter president. “The honorees show what’s possible when intention meets generosity, leadership and dedication come together. We’re honored to celebrate the honorees alongside our presenting sponsor, PNC Bank.”

“Philanthropy is one of San Diego’s great strengths—not just because of this community’s generosity, but because of what happens when people unite around the belief that our region can be better,” said Mark Stuart, President & CEO of the San Diego Foundation and Honorary Committee Chair for National Philanthropy Day. “National Philanthropy Day lets us recognize the donors, volunteers, fundraisers, and organizations who turn that belief into action, strengthening lives throughout our community. Celebrating them reminds us all of the extraordinary power we have when we work together.”

Eleven honorees, including eight individuals and three organizations, were selected from scores of nominees submitted from throughout San Diego County. Honorees were selected through a rigorous vetting process by AFP San Diego’s Honorary Committee.

2026 National Philanthropy Day Honorees:

  • Outstanding Development Professional, Emerging Leader – Miguel Lopez, CFRE (San Diego Foundation)
  • Outstanding Development Professional, Mid-Career – Amie Brown, CFRM (Meals on Wheels San Diego County)
  • Outstanding Development Professional, Career Achievement – David Hanses (Scripps Institution of Oceanography)
  • Outstanding Organization, IDEA – The San Diego LGBT Community Center
  • Outstanding Grantmaking Organization – David C. Copley Foundation
  • Outstanding Philanthropic Business or Corporation – Maya’s Cookies
  • Outstanding Student Volunteer – Chris Zheng (Casa de Amistad)
  • Outstanding Volunteer – Dr. Suzanne Afflalo (A Healthier Me)
  • Outstanding Volunteer – Fred Davis (Serving Seniors)
  • Outstanding Philanthropists – Mel & Linda Katz
  • Special Lifetime Achievement Award – Ingrid de Llamas, CFRE, IAP

National Philanthropy Day Supports AFP San Diego’s Empower Fund

Beyond recognizing local philanthropic leadership, National Philanthropy Day supports the Empower Fund, powered by U.S. Bank, which provides scholarships, educational opportunities and professional development for nonprofit leaders.

In its inaugural year, AFP San Diego raised $28,000 for the Empower Fund through National Philanthropy Day, with a goal of $50,000 in 2026. Contributions directly support educational initiatives for nonprofit professionals throughout the region. Donations are accepted year-round.

AFP San Diego’s National Philanthropy Day is made possible through the generous support of Presenting Sponsor PNC Bank, Empower Sponsor U.S. Bank, Focus Sponsor Sanford Institute of Philanthropy at NU and dozens of partners. View the full list of 2026 sponsors.

Event Details

Friday, Nov. 13, 2026 | 11 a.m.–1:30 p.m.
Manchester Grand Hyatt, 1 Market Place, San Diego, CA 92101

Tickets and partnership opportunities are available at AFPSD.org – NPD 2026! For more information, contact Fiona King at 619-538-6605 or [email protected].

About AFP San Diego

The Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) San Diego Chapter has supported fundraising professionals and nonprofit leaders throughout San Diego County since 1974. Through professional education, mentorship, networking and leadership opportunities, AFP San Diego connects people at every stage of their careers while advancing ethical and effective fundraising practices. With more than 350 local members and connections to a global network of fundraising professionals, AFP San Diego invests in the people behind philanthropy to strengthen nonprofits and the communities they serve. Learn more at AFPSD.org & follow AFPSD on LinkedIn

Partner Contnet
Partner Content OCTOBER 19, 2026

New Tools for Treating Cancer — at Home

Oral oncolytics provide certain patients with effective treatment without IV medication

New Tools for Treating Cancer — at Home
Courtesy of Scripps Health

In the last several years, there’s been a surge in FDA approvals for what’s known as oral oncolytics. Oral oncolytics are targeted cancer therapies that come in tablet, capsule or liquid form that patients can take at home, rather than in an infusion clinic. Scripps physicians have seen exponential growth using this approach, with patients citing convenience as a major quality-of-life enhancement in their cancer treatment. This approach also allows treatments to be customized based on specific genetic mutations and a patient’s unique disease biology. Find out more about oral oncolytics here. 

For more nutrition, wellness, and healthy living tips, sign up for the San Diego Health newsletter here.

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