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HEAT.HELP.CURE

Miami Cancer Institute 2021 Philanthropy Impact Report

HEAT.HELP.CURE.

HEAT.HELP.CURE., a unique partnership between the Miami HEAT and Baptist Health South Florida, raises critical funds that support research and clinical trials at Miami Cancer Institute. Bounce Back from Cancer, the program’s signature fundraising event, raised $1,072,000 in 2021, thanks to the generous support of our donors and community partners.

On March 14, 2014, Baptist Health Foundation Board Member Ernesto Aviño’s world changed. After days of a persistent fever, he took his son, EJ, to the emergency room at Baptist Hospital, where he underwent scans to determine what was happening. The scans revealed a tumor in EJ’s chest and he was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic lymphoma. The very next morning, the Aviño family met with pediatric hematology and oncology specialist Doured Daghistani, M.D. As EJ began treatment, it became apparent to Ernesto that the compassionate care offered by Dr. Daghistani and other Baptist Hospital clinical staff were as if they were treating a member of their own family. To them, EJ wasn’t just another patient – he wasn’t just a number – he was family. After a two-and-a-half-year journey, EJ concluded his treatment.

In 2021, Ernesto and EJ became involved with HEAT.HELP.CURE., forming their own team to participate in the main event – Bounce Back from Cancer, The Miami Heat challenged participants to raise funds on March 13 by dribbling a basketball or walking a specified course to FTX Arena from Miami Cancer Institute (14.2 miles). EJ and his two cousins joined the youth advisory council, helping with efforts behind the scenes and promoting the event via their social media channels.

I think it gives him a sense of inclusion just knowing that he was not only treated as a patient, but knowing that he can be involved in advancing the causes for future patients – I don’t want him to feel like being a cancer survivor is his first and foremost identify,” says Ernesto. “He’s aware he is a survivor and is aware that others are going through this and keeping him involved with Miami Cancer Institute, HEAT.HELP.CURE. and Baptist Health has helped form him into a young man as he continues to grow”.

Miami Cancer Institute 2021 Philanthropy Impact Report

On behalf of the patients, families and dedicated team at Miami Cancer Institute, thank you for your philanthropic investment in our mission. Your generosity ensures the sustainability of key programs and services that enhance the patient experience and care provided.

We extend our deepest appreciation for your partnership. You are truly making a meaningful impact in our community.