Holtz Children's Hospital Sets Sail with Shake-A-Leg Miami, Creating Unforgettable Experiences for Patients and Families

On October 22, 2023 - Holtz Children's Hospital and Shake-A- Leg Miami joined forces to host an extraordinary day on the bay, providing an unforgettable experience for patients and their families. The event offered children the opportunity to go sailing, kayaking, and enjoy boat tours, while Sea Salt provided a delicious lunch for all attendees.

Kim Juanico, Pediatric and Neonatal Palliative Care (PediPals/NeoPals) Nurse Coordinator, expressed her excitement, stating, "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."

Hamilton Clark, CEO of Jackson Hospital, shared his pride in the collaboration, saying, "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 can team up to provide opportunities for kids with challenges and their families to experience the joy of sailing on Biscayne Bay."

Dr. Barth Green, a founder of Shake-A-Leg Miami, expressed his pleasure in sharing the healing qualities of the water with these children and families. He stated, "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."

For youth and families interested in getting involved, they can visit the Shake A Leg Miami website at www.Shakealegmiami.org or email info@shakealegmiami.org for more information.

For more information on Holtz Children’s Petipals program contact Kim Juanico at KJuanico@jhsmiami.org

About Holtz Children's Hospital:

Holtz Children's Hospital, part of the Jackson Health System, is a leading pediatric facility dedicated to providing exceptional healthcare to children in the Miami area. With a team of highly skilled professionals and state-of-the-art facilities, Holtz Children's Hospital is committed to delivering compassionate care and improving the lives of young patients and their families.

About Shake-A-Leg Miami:

Shake A Leg Miami is a non-profit organization that works in conjunction with the City of Miami to empower individuals, foster independence, and celebrate the healing power of the sea. Through various programs and activities, Shake A Leg Miami provides opportunities for people of all abilities to engage in watersports, build friendships, and discover new possibilities.

‍