American Heritage and BHMC Staff

DECEMBER 30, 2024 – FORT LAUDERDALE, FLORIDA—Pediatric cancer patients at Broward Health Medical Center were treated to a heartwarming holiday celebration thanks to the generous efforts of students from American Heritage Schools’ Pre-Medical Program.

“For 25 years they have brought joy to our pediatric cancer patients during the holidays,” said Manny Linares, CEO of Broward Health Medical Center. “Their kindness in offering gifts to cancer patients is a beacon of hope and a reminder of the profound impact that compassion and empathy can have.”

The festive gathering featured a special visit from Santa Claus, who delivered gifts from the children’s wish lists, which were personalized requests they had sent to the North Pole earlier this fall. In addition, the Florida Panthers mascots, Stanley C. Panther and Viktor E. Ratt, along with the Panthers cheerleaders, made a surprise appearance to spread joy and holiday cheer to young patients and their families.

Leading up to the event, the high school students transformed the hospital auditorium into a winter wonderland with sparkling Christmas ornaments and lights. They also organized fundraising efforts to fulfill the children’s holiday wishes, spending $500 on gifts for each patient. In total, they purchased more than 160 presents, such as a PS5, a kids’ camera and Disney character toys.

The celebration kicked off with remarks from Broward Health Medical Center leaders, including Donna Small, chief nursing officer, and Donald Jaffee, chief financial officer, in attendance. They expressed heartfelt appreciation to the American Heritage students, staff, and families for their continued dedication to bringing holiday cheer to children fighting cancer.

For 25 years, the Pre-Medical Program at American Heritage Schools has partnered with Broward Health Medical Center to bring hope, joy and a sense of holiday magic to children undergoing treatment during the festive season.

About Broward Health

Broward Health, founded in 1938 and headquartered in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, ranks among the 10 largest public healthcare systems in the United States. Nationally recognized for its focus on high-quality care for the residents of Broward County and beyond, Broward Health boasts five hospitals, two trauma centers, a dynamic academic partnership with Florida Atlantic University, was the county’s first statutory teaching hospital and has an ever-growing graduate medical education program. It includes more than 50 health centers and physician practices covering virtually every healthcare specialty.

Broward Health never stops working toward its mission of Exceptional Care, Extraordinary Compassion and Everyday Excellence. Driven by more than 11,000 talented employees and physicians who deliver care to all patients, regardless of their ability to pay, Broward Health is one of the largest employers in Broward County with an operating budget of $1.6 billion and annually provides more than $470 million of charity and uncompensated care.

For more information about Broward Health, visit BrowardHealth.org.