On October 28, hundreds of philanthropists and community leaders across South Florida gathered to celebrate the most anticipated gala of the season – the 2023 Diamond Ball – at Loews Miami Beach. The glittering event, benefiting Nicklaus Children’s Hospital and presented by Mario Murgado and Murgado Automotive Group raised $2.5 million and counting for Nicklaus Children’s Hospital. Cancer survivor siblings Kaylee, Keanu and Kassem Rodriguez took to the stage with their mom Ketty to share how Nicklaus Children’s saved their lives. Their story is a testament to the high-quality care the hospital provides, and the remarkable impact that donations can make on patient lives.
The Roaring Twenties-themed event transported nearly 700 guests back in time and featured a special tribute to community leaders and philanthropists Bibiana and Mario Murgado, who were inducted into the Ambassador David M. Walters International Pediatric Hall of Fame for their decades of service and support of children and families at Nicklaus Children’s and in South Florida.
An evening of recognition and celebration, Nicklaus Children’s Dr. David Lowe was also honored as the 2023 recipient of the Excellence in Pediatric Medicine Award, voted by his colleagues. This is the highest honor given to a physician at Diamond Ball each year. Nicklaus Children’s Hospital Foundation Board Chair Peter Lopez also recognized Oscar and Ellen Feldenkreis for their leadership and support as this year’s Diamond Ball Chairs.
