Holtz Children's Hospital Visit: A Day of Joy and Connection at Shake-A-Leg Miami

Holtz Children’s Hospital and Shake-A-Leg Miami Create Unforgettable Day on Biscayne Bay

On a sunny weekend, Holtz Children’s Hospital partnered with Shake-A-Leg Miami to provide an unforgettable day of joy and adventure for their patients and families. The event, held on September 22, 2024, from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm, brought together families for a heartwarming and activity-filled day on the waters of Biscayne Bay.

From sailing and kayaking to eco-boat tours, the children had the chance to explore the bay’s beauty while learning about its rich marine life. One highlight of the day was seeing the children light up with excitement as they took the helm of their boats, felt the sea breeze on their faces, and laughed contagiously while breaking through boundaries. Parents and caregivers looked on with joy, witnessing their kids discover a newfound sense of freedom and happiness on the water.

Kim Juanico, Pediatric and Neonatal Palliative Care (PediPals/NeoPals) Nurse Coordinator, shared her heartfelt thoughts, saying, “This is a dream come true for me. At Holtz Children’s Hospital, we are committed to providing opportunities for our patients and families to live fulfilling lives. Knowing that they can go sailing and participate in other programs at Shake-A-Leg Miami gives them hope and the opportunity to have fun, make friends, and engage in activities with their families.”

The sense of community and connection during the event was undeniable. Hamilton Clark, CEO of Jackson Hospital, reflected on the significance of the partnership between Holtz Children’s Hospital and Shake-A-Leg Miami. “Participating in watersports has always been a part of my life, and I am proud that Holtz Children’s Hospital and Shake-A-Leg Miami teamed up to provide opportunities for kids with challenges and their families to experience the joy of sailing on Biscayne Bay.”

The day wasn't just about activities; it was about creating memories. Dr. Barth Green, a founder of Shake-A-Leg Miami, also shared his thoughts on the event’s impact: “As a founder of Shake-A-Leg Miami, it is our mission to provide a place where families can come together and find hope, friendship, and new opportunities. UM/Jackson is committed to outreach and creating collaborations that improve the quality of life for families living in our community, and this event is a great example of that.”

The event was further enriched by a delicious lunch, generously provided by Miami Q Catering, allowing families to refuel and enjoy more time bonding in the sun. Events like this perfectly represent the heart of Shake-A-Leg Miami’s mission: to bring the healing and transformative power of the ocean to everyone, regardless of ability.

For those inspired to incorporate the healing qualities of the water into their lives, both Shake-A-Leg Miami and Holtz Children’s Hospital offer various programs designed to support youth and families. Interested individuals can visit the Shake-A-Leg Miami website at shakealegmiami.org or contact Kim Juanico at KJuanico@jhsmiami.org to learn more.

This day was a celebration of resilience, community, and the magic of the sea, a beautiful reminder of the power of nature to uplift and inspire.

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