Heat is a hard enemy to fight. Heat related illnesses are under reported, and often the only solution is keeping cool. For some people in LA, it's almost impossible to escape the heat island effect, even if their health depends on it.
This story was made possible with support from the Center for Health Journalism at the University of Southern California.
Photo: Marcela Herrera sits for a portrait in her daughter's bedroom. The family has recently painted the walls, installed tile flooring and put up curtains to try to reduce how much heat the apartment retains. (Dania Maxwell)