TheProject
A Publication of The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis & The Buoniconti Fund to Cure Paralysis
A Message from the President Marc Buoniconti
Dear Friends:
I would like to thank everyone who has continued to support us as we celebrate another year of remarkable scientific accomplishments at The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis. It’s incredible to think of all that we have accomplished these past 39 years, and it all began when my dad, NFL Hall of Famer Nick Buoniconti, and Dr. Barth Green decided to join forces and change the world after my paralyzing football injury. They felt strongly that if we invested in the right people and technologies, that we could change the way the world looks at paralysis, and it’s safe to say that they were right.
Marc Buoniconti
As a designated Center of Excellence at The University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, The Miami Project continues every day in our quest to cure spinal cord and traumatic brain injuries. As an added benefit, we’re finding that our work is having a significant impact on so many other neurological injuries, diseases and disorders including Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s Disease, Multiple Sclerosis, ALS, and stroke.
Thanks to the remarkable vision of Dr. Green and my dad, and the ongoing support of The Buoniconti Fund and so many generous friends and foundations, The Miami Project has changed medical history. This ongoing support has funded the basic and clinical science programs, and these significant investments in research have propelled The Miami Project to be one of the most comprehensive and productive research and rehabilitation centers in the world.
The Lois Pope LIFE Center and the Christine E. Lynn Rehabilitation Center work in tandem to create basic science, clinical research and the clinical application of that research that is regarded among the best in the world.
Another great point of pride for our team is that The Miami Project’s research scientists each year are awarded many ground-breaking research grants from the National Institute of Health (NIH), Department of Defense (DOD), Health and Human Services (HHS), and National Institute of Neurological Disease and Stroke (NINDS). These types of grants are among the most competitive in the world. The prestigious awards substantiate our relevant contributions to the field of neuroscience.
A very special thank you for the incredible efforts of our scientific leadership team of Barth A. Green, M.D., W. Dalton Dietrich, Ph.D., and Allan D. Levi, M.D., Ph.D., and the entire Basic Science and Clinical Rehabilitation research team, and our dedicated advancement team who work tirelessly to advance our cause.
Thank you to everyone who has shared our vision and contributed to The Miami Project and The Buoniconti Fund. You have each made an incredible difference in the lives of so many.
Marc A. Buoniconti
President
A
Message from The Miami Project
We sincerely appreciate the continued support of our friends and colleagues for our programs focusing on novel strategies to improve function and quality of life in individuals living with paralysis and other neurological disorders.
The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis, a Center of Excellence at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, continues to make important discoveries in the areas of brain and spinal cord injury. Our multidisciplinary program in the areas of discovery, translational and clinical research are directed to protecting and repairing the nervous system after injury. We sincerely thank all our friends, volunteers, and the Spinal Cord Injury (SCI) community for supporting our research mission to seek fundamental knowledge about brain and SCI and use that knowledge to reduce the burden of neurotrauma and other neurological diseases.
In the area of neuroprotection, our multicenter trial in therapeutic hypothermia is continuing to recruit spinal cord acutely injured subjects with the goal of changing medicine. Our drug discovery programs are developing new drugs to reduce structural damage and promote successful axonal regeneration. Our therapeutic translational pipeline includes NIH and DOD funded programs which are changing the way we improve function and quality of life in people living with spinal cord injury.
In the area of repairing the nervous system, current research is evaluating the beneficial effects of human Schwann cell-derived extracellular vesicles as a novel approach to delivering important proteins and genetic materials that our scientists feel will have a significant impact on treating a variety of neurological disorders.
Drs. Barth A. Green, W. Dalton Dietrich, and Allan D. Levi
In an attempt to retrain the nervous system after injury, our neuroscientists are working closely with engineers to develop novel strategies for stimulating residual brain circuits to takeover function that is lost after spinal cord injury. Brain computer interface programs and neuromodulation are already showing benefits in SCI subjects in terms of improved motor function and quality of life issues.
These are exciting times for The Miami Project as we translate neurotrauma discoveries to other neurological disorders including neurodegenerative diseases such as ALS, MS, Parkinson’s, and Alzheimer’s disease.
The Christine E. Lynn Rehabilitation Center is allowing our clinical investigators to more efficiently work with several clinical programs to recruit new subjects for our research initiatives. We are evaluating rehabilitation approaches to improve locomotor function, upper extremity movement and quality of life issues including neuropathic pain, spasticity, obesity and cardiovascular disease. Our multidisciplinary scientific community is fortunate to work in two state-of-the-art facilities where new discoveries in the Lois Pope LIFE Center can be successfully translated to the Lynn Center where every day advances are being made to improve medical care.
These are exciting times for The Miami Project as we translate neurotrauma discoveries to other neurological disorders including neurodegenerative diseases such as ALS, MS, Parkinson’s, and Alzheimer’s. We sincerely appreciate the continued support of our friends and colleagues for our programs focusing on novel strategies to improve function and quality of life in individuals living with paralysis and other neurological disorders.
Barth A. Green, M.D., F.A.C.S - Co-Founder
W. Dalton Dietrich, Ph.D. - Scientific Director
Allan
D. Levi, M.D., Ph.D. F.A.C.S - Clinical Director
The
Project
Barth A. Green, M.D.
Chairman and Founder, The Miami Project
Marc A. Buoniconti
President, The Miami Project and The Buoniconti Fund
W. Dalton Dietrich, III, Ph.D.
Scientific Director, The Miami Project
Stephanie Sayfie Aagard, Executive Director The Miami Project Board Member, The Buoniconti Fund
Suzanne Sayfie, Director of Major Gifts, The Buoniconti Fund
David McMillan, Ph.D., Director, Education
Diana Berning, Senior Manager of Business Operations
Scott Roy, Director, Public Relations & Communications
Teri Bendell, Director, Web Services, Auction and Database Management
Randy Medenwald, Director, Government Relations
David McMillan, Ph.D., Editor
Scott Roy, Managing Editor
Robert Camarena, Graphic Editor
Contributors: Marc Buoniconti, David McMillan, Dr. Dalton Dietrich, Stephanie Sayfie Aagaard, Suzie Sayfie, Teri Bendell, Robert Camarena, Randy Medenwald, Scott Roy, Lisette Hilton
Photographs
Robert Camarena, Getty Images, Ralph Notaro
Physical Address: 1095 NW 14th Terrace, R-48 Miami, FL 33136
Phone: 305-243-6001
www.TheMiamiProject.org
The Project is published twice a year by The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis, a Center of Excellence at the University of Miami Leonard M. Miller School of Medicine. All contents ©2024 Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited. The University of Miami is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer.Privacy Policy: If you do not wish to receive The Project in the future, please send your request to the address above or call 305-243-2267.
On the cover: In studies performed by Mary Bartlett Bunge, Ph.D., Damien D. Pearse, Ph.D., and colleagues, Schwann cells transduced to express green fluorescent protein and transplanted into the spinal cord injury site are observed with myelinated axons that are identified by myelin basic protein (red) immunochemistry.”
Nature Medicine Publishes Large Multicenter Trial on Transcutaneous Stimulation’s Effect on Chronic Spinal Cord Injury
Miller School researchers are among the authors who report ARC Therapy safely and effectively improves hand and arm functions in people with cervical spinal cord injury.
By Lisette Hilton
In a large multicenter clinical trial recently published in Nature Medicine that evaluated the safety and efficacy of ARC Therapy to improve arm and hand functions in people with chronic spinal cord injury, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine and other researchers found 72% of those studied experienced meaningful improvements in strength and function.
ARC Therapy delivers externally applied electrical stimulation over the cervical spinal cord during structured rehabilitation.
A Milestone of Success in SCI
“This is one of the first, if not the first, pivotal trial to be conducted in spinal cord injury that was successful in most of the participants,” said the study’s Miller School principal investigator James D. Guest, M.D., Ph.D., professor of neurological surgery at the Miller School. “In this study of 65 spinal cord patients, we met the clinical endpoint that this therapy, transcutaneous cervical stimulation, can move forward for FDA approval of a device. If it’s approved, it can begin to be implemented in clinics in North America and hopefully across the world.”
The finding that nearly three-quarters of those studied responded to stimulation treatment and achieved gains in the function of their arms and hands means better quality of life, according to Dr. Guest.
“When you’re dealing with people who have tetraplegia and quadriplegia, they often are dependent upon others for really simple things, like feeding themselves, pushing a button for an elevator, or being able to enter a number on a cell phone. The gains that people in the study experienced were relevant to those kinds of daily tasks,” Dr. Guest said.
A Worldwide Collaboration
The Miller School and The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis were part of an elite worldwide collaboration for the trial (called the Up-LIFT), including former member of The Miami Project Edelle C. Filed Fote, P.T., Ph.D., who directs spinal cord injury research at the Shepherd Center in Atlanta and is a professor at Emory University and George Institute of Technology. Leslie R. Morse, D.O., professor and chair of physical medicine and rehabilitation at the Miller School, was also among the authors. Dr. Morse was at the University of Minnesota School of Medicine at the time of the trial and served as that site’s principal investigator.
“Congratulations to all the dedicated faculty, staff, and trainees that helped make this important trial successful. A special thanks to our Miami Project clinical research team in the Christine E. Lynn Rehabilitation Center, who contributed to the completion of this seminal study and the impressive findings,” said W. Dalton Dietrich, Ph.D., scientific director of The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis and professor of neurological surgery.
Important Step Up from Rehab Only
Researchers compared ARC Therapy to a preceding equivalent period of rehabilitation, alone. They found that while participants in the Up-LIFT trial demonstrated some improvement in measures of arm and hand functions after a period of rehabilitation alone, their neurological status improved more significantly when delivering ARC Therapy.
“Persons with lived spinal cord injury experience have made an urgent call to the scientific community to accelerate discoveries that improve function, particularly of the hands and arms, in chronic spinal cord injury. This study is an important step in that direction, and I am honored to have been part of this team,” Dr. Morse said.
Participants also reported a decrease in the frequency and severity of muscle spasms, improved sleep quality and reduced pain-improvements that translated into notable increases in overall well-being.
The therapy, according to Dr. Guest, is not noninvasive in that it does not require any type of implant.
“You can put electrodes on and have this for an hour, three times a week, and the rest of the time you don’t have to deal with any devices being attached to your body,” he said. “ARC Therapy is quite simple. One can be trained quite quickly to do it, so it’s one of those things
that centers that specialize in spinal cord injury can scale up, which is an issue that we have in the spinal cord injury field. Many of the most impressive things that we can do are not scalable.”
What’s Next?
Dr. Guest and colleagues will soon launch an investigator-initiated study using these stimulators, which Onward Medical has provided. The researchers will look beyond the findings of the Nature Medicine study, at such things as the therapy’s effects on spasticity. They’ll also study the optimal duration of the treatment.
“People were in the study for four months. They only received stimulation for two months. And many people were still improving at the end and were sad the study was over,” Dr. Guest said. “We’re going to be studying a longer time frame to try and figure out when people stop showing a recovery benefit.”
Professor Dr. James Guest and researcher Dr. Nilanjana Datta apply a spinal cord simulator to a participant.
The Inflammasome for Early Detection of Complex Alzheimer’s Disease Progression
This project is part of a broader, collaborative team science AD/ADRD program at The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis to understand and combat neurodegenerative diseases.
The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis’s rich history of conducting team science research on a variety of neurological conditions has resulted in an important federal award. The Co-Principal Investigators Drs. W. Dalton Dietrich, PhD, Professor and Scientific Director, and Juan Pablo de Rivero Vaccari, PhD, Associate Professor have received a $1.6 million award, designated under the accelerated RF1 grant category by the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS). The project is investigating the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying traumatic brain injury (TBI) as a clinically relevant risk factor for the development of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and Alzheimer’s Disease Related Dementias (AD/ADRD). Proposed aims will determine the role that increased inflammasome activation plays in this increased vulnerability, including the measurements of diagnostic biomarkers to aid in the early detection of these potentially injurious mechanisms. Secondary aims use novel cell-based methods to determine injury mechanisms and examine the therapeutic benefits of inflammasome inhibition in AD and TBI using
transgenic models. In addition to Drs. Dietrich and de Rivero Vaccari, other important collaborations including Drs. Helen Bramlett, Nadine Kerr and Robert Keane provide additional expertise necessary to conduct this multi-disciplinary program.
Drs. Dietrich and de Rivero Vaccari combine their expertise to spearhead this cutting-edge team of science research. Dr. Dietrich’s significant contributions to neuroscience are supported by his recent 2023 Javits Neuroscience Investigator Award, a lifetime achievement award from the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS). Dr. de Rivero Vaccari, who oversees the Miami Project blood biomarker core, is leading the inflammasome field by clarifying the role that this multiprotein complex plays in neurological conditions using fluid biomarker assessments. They now, once again, join forces to unravel the complexities of abnormal inflammasome activation—a process that plays a crucial role in the body’s innate immune response and is believed to be a critical link between TBI and neurodegenerative diseases like AD/ADRD.
The topic of early life
TBI is, unfortunately, relevant given the high prevalence and insidious impact of head injury in children as documented by several Miami Project investigators.
This project now begs the question on the role of inflammasomes in the development and progression of AD/ADRD with and without preceding early life TBI. The team hypothesizes that inflammasome biomarkers, detectable through blood tests, could offer a minimally invasive and early indication of increased risk for AD/ADRD progression much earlier than the traditional diagnostic methods. Current approaches rely on structural brain changes or overt cognitive decline, while inflammasome activation seems to precede the onset of overt cognitive changes in ADRD. These important questions have led to exciting collaborations with Drs. David Loewenstein and Rosie Curiel Cid in the Department of Psychiatry. These investigators are working with Dr. de Rivero Vaccari to clarify the importance of early increases in inflammasome biomarker signaling on disease progression and memory disorders in high-risk patients that show the earliest signs of AD/ADRD.
To explore these hypotheses, the research team is employing a well-established pre-clinical model of AD/ ADRD, which is genetically engineered to develop Alzheimer’s symptoms. In this model, the scientists induce TBI at a stage before AD/ADRD symptoms manifest. They predict that while TBI alone will cause a transient spike in inflammasome signaling, the combination of TBI with a predisposition to
AD/ADRD will result in sustained inflammasome activation and accelerate AD onset when compared to mice that did not undergo TBI. Another novel aspect of this study is the use of a cellular stretch injury device to model in culture the mechanical injury experienced by brain cells after trauma. This mechanical stress, often referred to as primary injury, causes cells to release exosomes— lipid-bound spheres that carry a complex cargo from their cells of origin. The exosomes harvested from injured cells will serve a two-fold purpose, first being analyzed to understand the molecular mechanisms at play within the donor cell, and then infused into recipient cells to see the effect of their diseased cargo on healthy conditions. By comparing exosomes from TBI cells with those from TBI+AD/ ADRD cells, the team hypothesizes that the latter will cause more severe damage when applied to healthy cells, thereby advancing our understanding of how TBI exacerbates AD/ADRD progression.
In addition to diagnostic exploration, the study will evaluate possible experimental therapeutic agents including IC100, a monoclonal antibody specifically directed at an adaptor protein critical for inflammasome signaling and MCC950, a small molecule that inhibits inflammasome activation. IC100 was discovered by the team at the Miami Project and is currently being manufactured for testing in clinical trials. By targeting the inflammasome, the researchers hope to mitigate the inflammatory cascade triggered by the neurological conditions under study, potentially delaying or even preventing the onset of AD/ADRD in high-risk individuals.
This project is part of a broader, collaborative team science AD/ADRD program at The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis to understand and combat neurodegenerative diseases. The research builds on work with University of Miami’s Brain Endowment Bank™ and the Departments of Neurology with Dr. Regina Vontell, and Psychiatry (Loewenstein and Curiel), funded by the State of Florida, demonstrating the potential of inflammasome biomarkers as early indicators of cognitive decline in AD patients.
The inflammasome is a protein complex that includes a subunit known as ASC. This figure shows the expression of ASC in neurons and microglia, one type of support cells. Furthermore, two potential therapeutics, anti-ASC and IC100, that target ASC are shown to effect preclinical and human cells in brain areas (hippocampus and the entorhinal cortex) of patients with early and intermediate stages of Alzheimer’s disease. The similar findings in pre-clinical and human brains is encouraging for scientific models to understand and treat Alzheimer’s disease. Figure courtesy of Dr. Regina Vontell (Vontell et al. Brain Pathol. 2023).
The topic of early life TBI is, unfortunately, relevant given the high prevalence and insidious impact of head injury in children as documented by several Miami Project investigators. For example, Dr. Gilian Hotz, Professor and Director of UHealth Concussion Program and KiDZ Neuroscience Center is conducting outreach programs for our local South Florida communities to highlight bike safety approaches to limiting injuries. Dr. Jennifer Munoz Pareja, Associate Professor in the Division of Pediatric Critical Care Medicine is currently conducting a large clinical trial assessing various inflammatory blood biomarkers in pediatric TBI patients. Dr. Coleen Atkins, PhD, Associate Professor and pre-clinical TBI researcher is studying early life stress and how those events may lead to increased vulnerabilities to later-occurring TBI and behavioral abnormalities such as post-traumatic stress disorders and other quality of life issues. Recent advances in the field suggest that abnormal inflammasome activation could be a key player in this process.
Finally, concurrent research led by The Miami Project’s Nadine Kerr, PhD, Assistant Professor, explores the role of the gut-brain axis in AD/ADRD progression, and further work with Suhrud Rajguru, PhD, Professor, looks at the impact of blast injuries leading to hearing loss on AD/ADRD outcomes. Indeed, the inflammasome protein complexes that mediate inflammatory responses and their dysregulation have been implicated in many neurological conditions. Together, these efforts underscore The Miami Project’s commitment to advancing our understanding and management of neurodegenerative conditions, with the current project of Drs. Dietrich and de Rivero Vaccari highlighting the need for early detection to allow early intervention in AD/ADRD.
Miami Project Welcomes Two New Faculty Members
Vivek Kanumuri, M.D., joins The Miami Project from existing appointments with the Miller School’s Department of Otolaryngology—Head and Neck Surgery and the Bruce W. Carter Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center. Dr. Kanumuri’s medical schooling at Rutgers University included a prestigious Howard Hughes Medical Institute Research Fellowship involving Columbia University that launched his foray into his current expertise in optogenetic techniques to studying neurological circuits. His contributions to science continued during his residency at Harvard Medical School via a National Institutes of Health (NIH) training grant (T32) that funded further optogenetics work and the concurrent developed a conformable auditory brain stem implant. Having recently completed his neurotology fellowship at University of Miami/Jackson Memorial Hospital, Dr. Kanumuri now continues his surgeon-scientist career path. In doing so, in his clinical research he aims broadly to optimize non-invasive vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) for tinnitus and spinal cord injury (SCI) in collaboration with other Miami Project faculty studying VNS. In his pre-clinical research, he brings optogenetics along with new microscopy techniques that allow for deep in vivo imaging of the brain and spinal cord.
Leslie Morse, D.O., newly appointed Chair and Professor of the Miller School’s Department of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, joins The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis in our combined care and cure mission. Dr. Morse’s proven history of leadership, both as a departmental chair and medical director at a variety of prestigious institutions, is brought to bear in the Christine E. Lynn Rehabilitation Center for The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis at UHealth/ Jackson Memorial. Continuing 20 years of continuous federal funding making her an expert in disuse osteoporosis after spinal cord injury (SCI) and, more recently, neuropathic pain, Dr. Morse looks forward to expanding into the field of neuromodulation and tapping into The Miami Project’s proven history with emerging technologies. She will serve as co-director for the South Florida Spinal Cord Injury Model Systems (SCIMS) Center as she did for SCIMS centers at Spaulding-Harvard and Minnesota Regional. Along with these scientific pursuits, Dr. Morse is positioned to expand medical education and fellowship programs, as she did at Harvard, CU Denver, and University of Minnesota, while also optimizing care provided to more than 35,000 patients each year by her department.
Vivek Kanumuri, M.D.
Leslie Morse,D.O.
“We hold this open house to bond with the people we care so much about,”
Barth Green, M.D., chairman and co-founder of The Miami Project.
The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis’ ninth open house, and first since the COVID-19 pandemic, featured enlightening talks by top researchers in the spinal cord injury field and explored the cutting-edge labs where researchers are developing groundbreaking therapies.
“We hold this open house to bond with the people we care so much about,” said Barth Green, M.D., chairman and co-founder of The Miami Project. “These presentations integrate basic science, engineering and technology as we think of ways to improve our patients’ lives.”
W. Dalton Dietrich, Ph.D., scientific director of The Miami Project and senior associate dean for discovery science at the University of Miami Miller School
of Medicine, gave an overview and highlighted the center’s current standing and future direction.
“We are a neuroscience center without borders,” Dr. Dietrich said. “Here, we are developing an infrastructure for clinical translation science to protect and repair the nervous system. Our center stands strong, with nearly 40 faculty and eight postdocs. We have also been published in hundreds of academic journals.”
Technology and Spinal Cord Injuries
The first part of the open house took place in the Lois Pope LIFE Center and included three scientific talks from leading researchers, who fielded questions after their presentations.
Scientific Director Dr. Dalton Dietrich addresses the open house audience during Dr. Patrick Ganzer’s talk.
Patrick D. Ganzer, Ph.D., assistant professor in the Department of Biomedical Engineering at the University of Miami, presented “Targeted Plasticity Therapy” and noted the therapy uses neuromodulation and bioelectronic medicine to stimulate the perirhinal nerve without side effects. This targeted approach can easily be turned on and off to affect the vagus nerve. When paired with rehabilitation, the therapy is then expected to benefit functional recovery after spinal cord injury (SCI).
Hassan A. Ali, Ph.D. M.S.M., associate professor in the Miller School’s Department of Neurological Surgery, presented on “Combining Microscopy, Robotics and Machine Learning to Accelerate Discovery of SCI Therapeutics.”
“Developing and discovering drugs is difficult and expensive, costing $2 billion to $3 billion per drug,” Dr. Ali said. “Since my lab is involved in testing neurons, which can be a labor-intensive process, we are finding solutions with cutting-edge technologies to ease the
cost by incorporating robots to make the process more efficient.”
In the final presentation, “Brain-Controlled Neuromodulation for Neuromotor Recovery,” Matija Milosevic, Ph.D., The Miami Project’s director of neuromotor rehabilitation, showed how neuromodulation can help improve damaged motor functions, with nearly an 85% success rate. The process is non-invasive and focuses on activating electrodes placed on the patient’s skin to augment muscle activity for simple tasks like holding or picking up an item. The goal is to then stimulate the spine with these same concepts.
Laboratory Tours Showcase Latest Translational Science
Open house participants toured the high-end Christine E. Lynn Rehabilitation Center for The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis at UHealth/Jackson Memorial, a comprehensive inpatient and outpatient rehabilitation
Dr. Matija Milosevic engages open house participants in his Neuromodulation, Engineering, and Therapeutics (NeuroMET) lab.
facility, and its five laboratories. Anthony Cribbs traveled from Oklahoma City with his family to participate.
“Having exhausted the resources available in Oklahoma City, I was eager to explore the potential The Miami Project holds for my progress,” Cribbs said “This event has proven incredibly insightful and beneficial. I’ve had the opportunity to engage with researchers and witness firsthand the cutting-edge technology they’re working with.”
Members of Dr. Milosevic’s lab complemented his lecture by demonstrating neuromodulation strengthening the connection between the brain and the peripheral nerve. Sandra Marin, who came from Colombia to enroll in The Miami Project four months ago, was inspired by the work.
“This event offers hope for all of us with reduced mobility,” Marin said. “I was searching for an advanced
outlook in the latest medical practices in SCI and The Miami Project is truly that place. I have been fortunate to be a part of the neuromodulation and it has been amazing to see motion again in my legs, truly a wonderful experience.”
Mark Nash, Ph.D., associate scientific director for research at The Miami Project, heads up a lab that offered an example of applied physiology, presented by Gary Farkas, Ph.D. Electrical currents target metabolism, rather than movement, in the muscles. The approach is important because paralysis increases the risk of metabolic diseases such as obesity and diabetes.
Eva Widerstrom-Noga, Ph.D., a research professor in the Department of Neurological Surgery and Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation at the Miller School, and her lab team are looking at combining therapeutics, including nonpharmacological approaches, to better treat neuropathic pain.
Founder and Chairman Dr. Barth Green addresses the open house audience.
“Today’s approved medication only reduces pain by 33% for one in seven patients,” Dr. Widerstrom-Noga said. “It’s important to combine some pharmacological treatments with non-pharmaceutical treatments to reduce this neuropathic pain intensity. Here, we are using low-shock therapy to target portions of the brain while working with multisensory integrations.”
Elizabeth Felix, Ph.D., research associate professor in the Miller School’s Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation and project director for the South Florida Spinal Cord Injury Model System, uses another kind of shock, quantitative sensory testing, to study paralysis. Her lab uses thermal sensitivity tests to investigate why some patients with spinal cord injury experience chronic neuropathic pain.
The tours concluded with an exploration of male fertility, with Emad Ibrahim, M.D., assistant professor of urology and neurological surgery at the Miller School and director of the Male Fertility Research Program of The Miami Project. Dr. Ibrahim showed how tools for penile vibratory stimulation can help men with SCI who want to father children.
“I hope the participants found our open house interesting and informative,” said Marc Buoniconti, president of The Miami Project. “We are motivated daily to continue our mission as this project changes lives. Our goal has always been to advance and apply basic translational science. It has been one of the proudest things to be a part of.”
Clockwise top left: Dr. Emad Ibrahim in his SCI Male Fertility clinic; Dr. Gary Farkas demonstrating FES cycling; Dr. David McMillan on The Miami Project’s education and outreach efforts; Dr. Elizabeth Felix demonstrating sensory testing.
Henry G. Steinbrenner Scholars Program
The Henry G. Steinbrenner Scholars Program, directed by The Miami Project’s Office of Education & Outreach, once again delivers a 10 week immersive, competitive, funded, researchdriven summer internship that seeds the future of neuroscience through the lens of neurotrauma. This year ten exceptional students from four states and five different universities took the plunge into Miami Project research, education, and professional development.
The program culminates in a final research day competition, with this year’s awards going to Gina Adams in first, Abigail West in second, and Clara Ford in third for projects on novel methods for labeling
specific neural cell types, biomarkers for male fertility after spinal cord injury (SCI), and application of cutting-edge tools to measure muscle activation after SCI, respectively. Other scholar’s projects spanned topics from cellular correlates of neuropathic pain, to multi-organ impacts of brain injury and disease, to the use of artificial intelligence to automate image analysis to speed drug discovery.
One scholar’s full-circle journey summarizes the transformative power of The Miami Project’s science. Before ever hearing about the Steinbrenner Scholars Program, Annalisa Heiss acquired an injury that severed a nerve in her leg, qualifying her for an experimental therapeutic study lead by Dr. Allan Levi,
2024 Henry G. Steinbrenner Scholars.
Chair and Professor of Neurological Surgery and The Miami Project’s clinical director. Her participation in this peripheral nerve injury clinical trial introduced her to The Miami Project, igniting her aspiration to pursue a career in medicine. Returning this summer not as a research participant, but as a researcher now contributing to the kinds of studies that lead to her personal recovery and professional interest in medicine, the Steinbrenner Scholars Program is another Miami Project step in her journey.
Beyond the laboratory, scholars engaged in a robust curriculum of professional development, including mentorship, career workshops, and networking opportunities, including a neuroscience-themed ropes course to launch the program and embrace kinesthetic learning. This holistic approach, of centering the science while also efficiently integrating relevant supporting content, does not just make good sense, it also works. The program’s efficacy is proven by a number of alumni who have recently been accepted to doctoral (Ph.D.) and medical (M.D.) graduate programs, including two medical school admits who acquired “full-ride” scholarships after participating in the Steinbrenner Scholars Program.
As the 2024 participants head back to their home institutions, we confidently anticipate their future contributions to the field as The Miami Project remains committed to cultivating the next generation of neuroscientists who join us in the quest to cure paralysis.
Steinbrenner Scholar, Annalisa Heiss, attaching leads for an experiment.
Steinbrenner Scholar, Abigail West, working in the lab.
“This has been such an exciting, fruitful and especially fulfilling journey”.
Dr. Mary Bartlett Bunge
The Miami Project Hosts a Celebration of the Incredible Life of Dr. Mary Bartlett Bunge
Family, friends and colleagues from around the world gathered on Friday, June 7th at the Lois Pope LIFE Center on the Miller School campus to celebrate Mary Bartlett Bunge, Ph.D, a true legend in the field of neuroscience. Dr. Bunge was an important member of our Miami Project scientific community and the University of Miami for over 30 years. Her work and contributions significantly impacted The Miami Project’s scientific and educational programs.
There were many outstanding investigators who worked with Dr. Bunge over the years, many of whom were in attendance in person or virtually. All through their association with Dr. Bunge contributed to the field of regenerative medicine and Schwann cell biology over the years.
Welcome remarks were given by W. Dalton Dietrich, Ph.D., Scientific Director, The Miami Project and the Kinetic Concepts Distinguished Chair in Neurosurgery, Senior Associate Dean for Discovery Science. He shared how Dr. Mary, as she was affectionately known, was a pioneer and a strong advocate for scientific discovery, specifically promoting women in neuroscience.
Barth Green, M.D., Chairman and Co-Founder, The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis, Executive Dean, Global Health and Community Service, shared on the day’s celebration, “Today is a big present for all of us to celebrate Dr. Mary Bunge. Mary affected the field of neuroscience and the future of women in neuroscience. She led the charge to make sure that women could enter the field of neuroscience and excel.”
Allan Levi, M.D., Ph.D., Clinical Director, The Miami Project, Professor and Chairman, Department of Neurological Surgery and the Robert M. Buck
Dr. Barth Green, Jon Bunge and Dr. Dalton Dietrich
Distinguished Chair in Neurological Surgery, studied under Dr. Bunge and her husband Richard Bunge, Ph.D., shared how Dr. Mary was, “a woman of incredible integrity and humility. She broke the glass ceiling before we knew there was one. I came here because of Mary and Dick (Bunge) and the family they created.”
Colleagues from near and far came to talk about the impact of Dr. Bunge and her research. They were Jeffrey Milbrandt, M.D., Ph.D. from Washington University who spoke on Schwann cell metabolism and axon support. He was followed by Elizabeth Bradbury, Ph.D. from Kings College of London who discussed Chasing Spinal Cord Repair: from Models and Mechanisms to Human
After a short lunch break, former student James Guest, M.D., Ph.D., Clinical Professor, Department of Neurological Surgery and The Miami Project, presented the Historical overview of Dr. Mary and Richard Bunge’s work. Sandra Lemmon, Ph.D. a longtime friend and collaborator, shared Dr. Bunge’s commitment to supporting women in science.
Many friends and family then shared poignant memories, videos, and messages followed by a celebratory tea. A Friday afternoon gathering with tea and sweets, was a staple of Dr. Bunge’s lab life. She and her husband would always host the Friday afternoon event as an opportunity to share the week’s accomplishments and promote collaboration and camaraderie. During tea, music provided by the University of Miami’s Frost Music School
Dr. Mary Bunge received many national and international honors during her career, including the Wakeman Award for spinal cord injury repair, and she was a three-time recipient of the Javits Neuroscience Investigator Award from the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. She was elected chair of the of the Society for Neuroscience Development of Women’s Careers in Neuroscience Committee from 1994-2002. In 2000, she received the Mika Salpeter Women in Neuroscience Lifetime Achievement Award for her leadership in advancing the careers of women in neuroscience. In 2001, she
received the Christopher Reeve Research Medal for Spinal Cord Injury Repair. She was elected to the National Academy of Sciences Institute of Medicine and was awarded the Health Care Hero Lifetime Achievement Award by the Greater Miami Chapter Chamber of Commerce.
Dr. Bunge also received the Christine Lynn Distinguished Professor in Neuroscience Award in 2003 and the Lois Pope LIFE International Research Award in 2005. Upon receiving this award, she donated the money to the University of Miami to establish a lecture series to bring prominent women researchers doing groundbreaking work in cell biology to serve as role models to our campus annually. In 2012, Dr. Bunge received the University of Miami Faculty Senate Distinguished Faculty Scholar Award. The ASIA society awarded Richard and Mary with the lifetime achievement award in 2018. On February 6, 2024, the 19th Annual Mary Bartlett Bunge Distinguished Women in Cell Biology Lecture was held. Dr. Bunge listened to this special lecture, demonstrating the enduring passion for science that never left her.
In addition to these many accomplishments and honors, Dr. Bunge was an incredible teacher and mentor. She trained numerous graduate and postdoctoral fellows who went on to become leaders in the fields of cell biology, neuroscience, and Schwann cell transplantation. She will be greatly missed by everyone who knew her and had the privilege of learning from this special scholar who contributed so much to her scientific field, The Miami Project and the University of Miami.
Jeffrey Milbrandt, M.D., Ph.D. speaks at the celebration.
th
38 Annual Great Sports Legends Dinner
to benefit The Buoniconti Fund
Presented by Tudor Group and the Mack family
2023 Great Sports Legends with Gloria Estefan, Marc Buoniconti and Swanee DiMare
Sports Legends Michael Strahan, Missy Franklin, Zdeno Chara, Jim Thome, Larry Little, Tim Howard, Jim Furyk, and Val Ackerman
Honored at the 38th Annual Great Sports Legends Dinner
Armando Christian Perez (Pitbull) received the Buoniconti Fund Award in honor of his commitment to the cause; Gloria Estefan served as Mistress of Ceremonies; Ne-Yo gave a special performance
More than 800 business, community, and civic leaders, humanitarians, celebrities, and philanthropists gathered for The Buoniconti Fund to Cure Paralysis’ 38th Annual Great Sports Legends Dinner to celebrate these Hall of Fame and World Champion athletes from different sporting categories who inspire and motivate others. The sports icons turned out to help raise the much-needed funds to benefit The Buoniconti Fund and The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis, a Center of Excellence at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, which serves as the world’s premier center for research and treatment of spinal cord injury and other neurological diseases and disorders.
This year’s honorees were: New York Giants and NFL Hall of Famer and TV personality Michael Strahan; five-time Olympic Gold Medalist swimmer Missy Franklin, Boston Bruins Stanley Cup champion Zdeno Chara; five-time All-Star and Major League Baseball Hall of Famer Jim Thome; two-time Super Bowl champion and NFL Hall of Famer Larry Little; longtime US Men’s National Team goalkeeper and United Soccer League Champion Tim Howard, U.S. Open Champion, FedEx Cup Champion and PGA Tour Player of the Year golfer Jim Furyk and Big East Conference Commissioner, first WNBA President, and member of the Women’s Basketball Hall of Fame and the Basketball Hall of Fame Val Ackerman
The Buoniconti Fund also honored Grammy Award winning superstar Armando Christian Perez (Pitbull), who received the 2023 Buoniconti Fund Award. And the event featured a live performance by three-time Grammy Award winner Ne-Yo.
Gloria Estefan, Marc Buoniconti and Pitbull
Mark Dalton
Music icon, philanthropist, eight-time Grammy Award Winner and Presidential Medal of Freedom honoree Gloria Estefan, served as the Event’s Mistress of Ceremonies. Estefan’s connection to The Buoniconti Fund dates back more than three decades when she suffered a severe spinal cord injury in a tour bus accident and now, Estefan has served on the Buoniconti Fund’s Advisory Board.
“This year’s Great Sports Legends Dinner was a spectacular lineup of sports champions and honorees,” said Marc Buoniconti, Buoniconti Fund President. “I am incredibly thankful to all our honorees, performers, and guests. Tonight’s contributions will allow The Miami Project to continue its pioneering paralysis and neurological disease research with the goal of finding a cure.”
In fact, he explained that “I am so proud and honored to announce tonight that the state of research at The Miami Project has never been more promising. Following in the legendary footsteps of my father, and through the vision of Dr. Barth Green (co-founder of the Miami Project), I have continued to promise to do everything in my power to find a cure for paralysis and other neurological diseases and disorders. I am here to tell you that we have made some of the greatest discoveries in the history of neuroscience.”
Christine E. Lynn and Harry Carson
Michael Strahan
Marc Buoniconti and Gloria Estefan with the DiMare family
Chaired by Mark Dalton, the Great Sports Legends Dinner benefits The Buoniconti Fund to Cure Paralysis, the fundraising arm of The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis. The high-profile dinner, presented by Tudor Group and the Mack family, annually attracts a veritable “Who’s Who” of sports legends, celebrities, philanthropists, corporate leaders and influential notables from New York and Miami. The event also featured a spectacular silent auction, which included one-of-a-kind autographed sports memorabilia, travel and experiences, electronics, autographed memorabilia, kidz korner, magnificent jewelry, and much more.
The 38th Annual Great Sports Legends Dinner was held in memory of longtime Buoniconti Fund Board Member, generous philanthropist and devoted supporter of The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis, Paul J. DiMare. Additional sponsors included the Legends Reception Sponsor Badia Spices and Supporting Event Sponsor, Thomas E. Smith Foundation.
The Buoniconti Fund, the fundraising arm of The Miami Project, was founded by Nick Buoniconti NFL Hall of Fame linebacker and captain of the 1972 Miami Dolphins, still the only team in NFL history to go undefeated in a season. Nick co-founded The Miami Project with worldrenowned neurosurgeon Dr. Barth Green to find a cure for his son Marc, who was paralyzed in a collegiate football game. Over the past 38 years, the Fund has honored more than 400 sports legends and humanitarians and has raised millions for The Miami Project’s spinal cord injury research programs.
Gloria Estefan, Austin Sayfie Aagaard, Emilio Estefan
Lois Pope with Drs Dalton Dietrich and Helen Bramlett
Diana Morrison, Suzie Sayfie and Victoria Ranger Nuñez
Ne-Yo Performing
Tim Howard, Jim Furyk, Marc Buoniconti and Mike Eruzione
Richard Gray and Dr. Barth Green
The Buoniconti Fund Board of Directors
Stephanie Sayfie Aagaard and Pitbull
Jenna Green Arison and Nick Arison
Chris Pedersen with Terry Buoniconti and Scott Erickson
Mikaela and Jon Secada
Gloria Estefan with Missy Franklin
Lynn and Reed Mack
JACK NICKLAUS
MAGIC JOHNSON
NACHO
JOHN ELWAY
DAVID
KELLY
TOMMY
2nd Annual Equestrian Legends Celebrity Polo Match & Gala to benefit The
Buoniconti Fund
Academy Award-Winning Actor Tommy Lee Jones and Decorated Polo Player
Dawn Jones Served as Honorary Chairs of the Event at the National Polo Center; Renowned Polo Player Nacho Figueras and Equestrian Delfina Blaquier received The Buoniconti Fund Award
Academy Award Winning Actor Tommy Lee Jones and decorated polo player Dawn Jones were joined by polo legend Nacho Figueras and Argentine businesswoman and equestrian Delfina Blaquier for The 2nd Annual Equestrian Legends Celebrity Polo Match & Gala, benefitting The Buoniconti Fund to Cure Paralysis at the National Polo Center on January 30th. The event featured a cocktail reception, silent and live auctions, the presentation of The Buoniconti Fund Award to Nacho Figueras and Delfinas Blaquier, and an equestrian demonstration from Olympic and World Champions in the disciplines of Show Jumping, Dressage and Polo.
The incredible equestrian showmanship was evident at the National Polo Center in Wellington, where dozens of horses, with their accomplished riders, performed in spectacular demonstrations. The equestrian show was announced by Tony Coppola, president of the US Polo Association, and featured Dana Barnes, principal of
Nacho Figueras, Delfina Blaquier, Marc Buoniconti, Tommy Lee Jones, Dawn Jones, Stephanie Sayfie Aagaard
Tim Gannon, Mark Dalton and Tommy Lee Jones
Concord Equity Group and Polo Team Sponsor for the evening; father-and-son polo legends Luis and Lucas Escobar; decorated polo player and Game MVP Dawn Jones, who with her husband, Academy AwardWinning actor Tommy Lee Jones, served as the event’s honorary chairs; Kris Kampsen, three-time US Open Arena Champion; polo icon Stephen Orthwein; Dr. Scott Swerdlin, president of the Palm Beach Equine Clinic, who served as Polo Team Sponsor with his wife Amy Swerdlin; Grand Prix jumper Riley Delbecq; multi-award winning jumper Todd Minikus; and Olympian and champion dressage trainer Jan Ebeling.
The equestrian demonstration was followed by an exquisite sit-down dinner with wine and champagne pairings from Penfolds, as well as the presentation of The Buoniconti Fund Award to Nacho Figueras and Delfina Blaquier for their continued devotion and support of The Buoniconti Fund.
Marc Buoniconti, President, The Buoniconti Fund and The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis, inspired the audience with his story of determination and perseverance, and implored the audience to join him in his efforts to support The Miami Project’s research efforts. Dr. Barth Green, Co-Founder, The Miami Project and Mark Dalton, longtime Buoniconti Fund Board member and Great Sports Legends Dinner Chairman, were thanked for all they do to support The Miami Project’s research advances. Stephanie Sayfie Aagaard, Executive Director of The Miami Project emceed the evening and helped auction one-of-a-kind items in support of the cause.
The unique and impressive list of items included a priceless Taylor Swift, The Eras Tour VIP Concert experience for two that included tickets for one of her May, 2024 concerts in Paris, France and VIP access and treatment. The bidding was so robust that in the
Jumping Demonstration
Mark Dalton and Dr. Barth Green
Polo Exhibition
Nacho Figueras and Delfina Blaquier
Ann and Mitt Romney
Terry Buoniconti and Richard Gray
end three sets of this experience were sold in support of research at The Miami Project. The other items were a 14 KT white gold diamond Tennis Bracelet donated by Hana Stern Diamonds & Jewelry valued at $19,500, and an original acrylic painting by Artist Kyle Lucks created onsite during the polo match valued at $15,000.
The evening’s Platinum Sponsors were Mark Dalton, Co-Chairman of Tudor Investment Corporation, Tim Gannon, co-founder of Outback Steakhouse, Diana Morrison and Itchko Ezratti, Victoria Ranger Nuñez and Mike Nunez, Mack V/Lynn and Reed Mack, Concord Equity Group / Dana Barnes, Jeffrey and Melinda Hildebrand, and Penfolds. Gold Sponsors were Bainbridge/Richard Schechter, Curtis Pilot, and Arlene F. Page & J. David Page Charitable
Foundation/David and Tuny Page, Carole and Scott Swank, and Michael Prince. Co-chairs were Stephanie Sayfie Aagaard, Louise and Red Armour, Marc Buoniconti, Teresa Buoniconti, Mark Dalton, Shannon Falcone, Tim Gannon, Richard Gray, Barth A. Green, M.D., Dawn and Tommy Lee Jones, Reed Mack, Diana Morrison, Victoria Ranger Nuñez, and Suzie Sayfie
Lois Pope and Tommy Lee Jones
Cynthia and Marc Buoniconti Shannon Falcone and Tim Gannon
Diana Morrison and Victoria Ranger Nuñez
Reed Mack and Marc Buoniconti
22 Annual Buoniconti Fund Celebrity Golf Invitational
Presented by Tudor Group at The Bear’s Club
Jack Nicklaus, the greatest golfer who ever lived, and Marc Buoniconti hosted the 22nd installment of the Annual Buoniconti Fund Celebrity Golf Invitational presented by Tudor Group on April 27th and 28th at The Bear’s Club in Jupiter, Florida, Nicklaus’ home club and course. Years ago, Jack Nicklaus was honored at The Buoniconti Fund’s Great Sports Legends Dinner event in New York City, and shortly thereafter he told Nick Buoniconti that he wanted to do more to help the cause. Fast forward twenty-two years, and the event has helped raise millions of dollars for spinal cord injury and other neurological research programs at The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine.
Each year, the event convenes business leaders, philanthropists, sports icons and celebrities who join Jack for a weekend including an exciting casino cocktail reception and silent auction followed by an inspirational program and dinner.
Jack Nicklaus, Marc Buoniconti, Barbara Nicklaus and Mark Dalton
Randy Glein, Victor Calaba, Jack Nicklaus, Matthew Andresen, Mark Dalton
Marc Buoniconti and Christine E. Lynn
A very special thank you to Mark Dalton and Barbara and Jack Nicklaus for their continued generosity in hosting this incredible event.
“Each year our friends continue to not only support us but help us raise more money and awareness to help us find therapies for not only paralysis, but for all those living with neurological injuries and disorders. It means so much to me and my entire family to count Jack and Barbara, and all our dedicated supporters, as friends in our quest to find these cures,” said Marc Buoniconti, President of The Buoniconti Fund.
Golfers and celebrities included former Dolphins Receiver Fred Banks, 1972 Olympic Long Jump Gold Medalist Bob Beamon, former Bears and Dolphins Receiver Marty Booker, former Bengals Running back Ki-Jana Carter, Super Bowl Winning Offensive lineman Jeff Dellenbach, former Rams and Dolphins Tight End Troy Drayton, MLB All-Star and Gold Glove-winning First Baseman Andres Gallaraga, former Dolphins Running Back Lorenzo Hampton, former Seattle Seahawks Safety John Harris, former Browns and Vikings Running Back Leroy Hoard, former NY Giants linebacking great Brian Kelley, former Dolphins Punter John Kidd, Two-Time Super Bowl Champion Running Back Sony Michel, former Falcons, Jags and Cowboys Receiver Laurent Robinson, Actor from Hercules and Andromeda Kevin Sorbo, talented Actor Aiden Turner, and former Dolphins and Patriots Tight End Jed Weaver.
We would also like to thank our sponsors, including: Tudor Group, Mark Dalton, Reed Mack and family, Marc and Cynthia Buoniconti, Terry Buoniconti, Christine E. Lynn, Band Aid Brand and Listerine from our friend Rick Campbell, Fix Healthcare Technology / Scott Thompson, Tim Gannon, Perry Ellis International, Richard Aldrich, Jr., and the Anthony R. Abraham Foundation
Jack Nicklaus and Dr. Barth Green
Dick Aldrich and Lesley Visser
Scott Thompson, Lance Thompson, Bill Rain and Reed Mack
Aiden Turner on the course
Join Jack Nicklaus and our celebrity friends at Nicklaus’ exclusive course!
• Golf legend Jack Nicklaus will host and attend this exciting event.
• Golf with sports and entertainment stars at this prestigious golf course, The Bear’s Club.
• Exclusive dinner at The Bear’s Club clubhouse on Sunday evening.
• Hotel stay on Sunday evening of event.
• Silent Auction featuring fantasy experiences, sports memorabilia, exquisite jewelry, terrific trips and more on Sunday evening.
• Early Monday morning breakfast at The Bear’s Club clubhouse.
• Dazzling day of golf with on-course contests.
• Awards ceremony luncheon following the golf invitational.
• First-class golfer gifts.
National Volunteer Chapters
Established in 1992, The Buoniconti Fund’s Chapters play a crucial role in advancing the research efforts at The Miami Project. Each Chapter is led by dedicated volunteer regional directors and consists of committed volunteers who work tirelessly to support local events and spread awareness about The Miami Project’s groundbreaking research and hopeful message.
Whoever said friends cannot be family did not know of the incredible bond that Marc Buoniconti shares with his football teammates and F-Troop members at The Citadel. For the past 16 years, many of these friends have traveled from far and near to spend the weekend together as the Charleston Chapter held its Annual Tailgate on November 4th, all to support Marc and The Buoniconti Fund. Members of the F-Troop were given special gifts from Marc and The Citadel President General Glenn M. Walters, USMC (Ret.) stopped by for a surprise visit. Mark your calendars for November 9th!
Members of our Indianapolis Chapter held its 6th Annual Pub Crawl on August 10th with visits to Big Woods Speedway, Daredevil Brewery and finishing at Brozinni’s Pizzeria. This event brought folks together for a fun afternoon led by Volunteer Regional Director Doug Woodwell and members of the volunteer committee. Check out our website for upcoming events!
FORE! Thanks to our incredible Volunteer Regional Director Jimmy Hoy and his committee, our Pittsburgh Chapter once again sold out its 20th Annual Golf Tournament on September 14th at the Carmichaels Golf Club. Each year, this event is one of the most anticipated golf tournaments in the Pittsburgh area having a wait list well before the tournament is even publicized. Special thanks to all of our sponsors who continue to support each and every year! Mark your calendars for September 2025!
Marc Buoniconti at the Annual Tailgate Party
Golfers celebrating at the 20th Annual Pittsburgh Chapter Golf Tournament
Indianapolis Chapter 6th Annual Pub Crawl
The Southern California Chapter, led by Volunteer Regional Director Bill McMillan, hosted its first cultivation event in the Santa Ana community on November 18th at the Orange County Mining Co. The Miami Project’s Director of Education and Community Outreach, Dr. David McMillan highlighted many areas of our ongoing research. Plans are underway for our fall fundraiser, check our website for details.
The Naples Chapter of The Buoniconti Fund to Cure Paralysis, on May 23rd held the 3rd Annual Naples Golf Invitational, Presented by Gulf Western took place at the Bear’s Paw Country Club. This year’s event saw the largest number of golfers to date and raised more than $80,000. Beyond the financial feat, the invitational has proven instrumental in expanding The Buoniconti Fund’s influence along Florida’s west coast. Steering the event’s success was a dedicated committee comprised of Nick Stefanis, Joe Lamb, Keith Reece, Valerie Gonzalez, Paula Mesa, and Alicia Gonzalez. The accomplishments achieved were made possible by the exceptional efforts of the Gulf Western staff, to whom the organization extends its heartfelt appreciation. We would also like to congratulate Gulf Western on celebrating its 25th Anniversary.
As grassroots advocates, our Chapter members are instrumental in rallying community support and sharing our mission. They are the driving force behind local initiatives, helping to amplify the impact of our research and outreach.
We invite you to get involved! Whether you want to join an existing Chapter or establish a new one in your area, there are numerous opportunities to contribute. To learn more about how you can participate, email us at bfchapters@miami.edu or call (888) STAND UP.
Chapters of The Buoniconti Fund include: Charleston - Darrell Gwynn - Indianapolis - Miami - Naples - Orlando - PhiladelphiaPittsburgh - Southern California
Together, we can make a difference in the fight against paralysis. Get involved today and help us advance our mission!
Nick Stefanis, Joe Lamb, Marc Buoniconti and Keith Reece
The McMillan family at the inaugural event of the Southern California chapter of the Buoniconti Fund.
The Kevin Kitchnefsky Foundation Hosts Its 26th Annual Golf Tournament
On August 18th, more than 144 golf enthusiasts played at the 26th Annual Kevin Kitchnefsky Golf Tournament at the Stonehedge golf course in Tunkhannock, PA. Through the years, Kevin has raised almost $1 million for spinal cord injury research and grants that enhance the quality of life for individuals in Pennsylvania living with spinal cord injuries. In 1996, while employed by a construction firm in New Jersey, Kevin Kitchnefsky’s life took an unexpected turn. While unloading two stacks of hefty chain-link fence from a tractor-trailer, an unfortunate mishap occurred. A total of 27 units of chain-link fence, each weighing around 100 pounds, suddenly shifted off the truck and trapped him against the tractor-trailer, resulting in paralysis. Despite this life-altering incident, Kevin’s determination to enhance the lives of those grappling with spinal cord injuries remained unshaken. This resolve led him to initiate his inaugural golf tournament in 1999, aimed at generating funds for paralysis research. The Miami Project extends heartfelt gratitude to Kevin, Yvonne and his family and friends for their role as beneficiaries of this remarkable tournament.
The Ricky Palermo Foundation’s Golf Tournament for Spinal Cord Injury Research
In life, there are rare instances when an organization and an outside family become intertwined in such a way that they are virtually indistinguishable. This represents the enduring partnership between The Miami Project and Ricky Palermo. Only one word describes the bond between the Palermo’s and The Miami Project: Family. Ricky Palermo held a unique place in The Miami Project’s history, being one of its initial research participants. His niece, Annie, devoted herself to the pursuit of scientific knowledge and worked as an Investigator at The Miami Project, driven by the desire to assist her uncle in regaining his mobility. The entire Palermo family, including cousins, enthusiastically volunteers to support Ricky’s initiatives, ensuring that their shared mission passes seamlessly from one generation to the next.
The turning point came in 1996 when Ricky Palermo experienced a life-changing car accident that left him paralyzed after his vehicle rolled off the road. In the midst of being pulled back into his truck seat, Ricky became acutely aware that something was amiss. His next conscious moment found him in a hospital room, confronted with the stark reality that, at 21 years old, walking would no longer be part of his life. It was during this very year that, with the unwavering assistance of family and friends, the inaugural Ricky Palermo Spinal Injury Golf Tournament was born. The event’s maiden year yielded $11,000 in funds, a modest beginning that, over the course of 28 years, blossomed into the Ricky Palermo Foundation—one of the largest golf tournaments in Western New York. Their contributions have exceeded $2 million, benefiting both the local community and The Miami Project’s groundbreaking research endeavors.
On August 3rd more than 200 golfers played at the Terry Hills Golf Course in Batavia, New York. It was an incredible day that included a helicopter golf ball drop. The Batavia community rallied wholeheartedly behind Ricky, evidenced by the sale of over 365 dinners. The momentum continues, as a dinner and comedy night fundraiser featuring Nick Marra, Dan Viola and Tim Meier is scheduled for September 21st. The Miami Project extends its heartfelt gratitude to Ricky, the Palermo family, and the Batavia community for their unwavering allegiance and dedication to the pursuit of a paralysis cure.
Ricky Palermo at Terry Hills Golf Course.
Supporters at the Stonehedge Golf Course.
Nascar Team Wins Annual Gettrx Hot Rods & Reels Fishing Tournament at Daytona International Speedway
Hall of Fame Drag Racer Darrell Gwynn Gathered NASCAR Legends for Charity Fishing Tournament and Donated a $25,000 Wheelchair to a Spinal Cord Injured Girl
NASCAR Driver Harrison Burton led his team to first place honors with a three-fish total of 5.83 pounds at this year’s GETTRX Hot Rods & Reels Charity Fishing Tournament held on February 16 to benefit The Darrell Gwynn Chapter of The Buoniconti Fund to Cure Paralysis. NASCAR drivers and Legends convened this morning on Lake Lloyd at Daytona International Speedway for the annual charity fishing event that kicks off the racing season.
Joining Jones for the event were Christopher Bell, Ryan Blaney, Harrison Burton, Noah Gragson, Timmy Hill, Brad Keselowski, Michael McDowell, David Ragan, Layne Riggs, Kenny Schrader, Martin Truex, Jr., Crew Chief Adam Stevens. Burton’s team’s three fish total beat out Layne Riggs’ team that came in 2nd and Ryan Blaney’s team came in third.
The largest fish, weighing 2.46 pounds made Harrison Burton’s team eligible to try to win the GETTRX Million Dollar Challenge. There were specially marked envelopes that allowed the winner a chance to win a million dollars. Unfortunately, they did not open the lucky envelopes, but it was an exciting moment for all in attendance.
Darrell Gwynn with Michael McDowell and his team.
“Each year these drivers and sponsors continue to support us and we couldn’t be more grateful. Racing and fishing just go together perfectly. We’re happy to join them as we kick off the NASCAR season and give the gift of mobility to a wonderful young girl who was paralyzed,” said Darrell Gwynn.
Hot Rods & Reels Charity Fishing Tournament annually benefits The Darrell Gwynn Quality of Life Chapter of The Buoniconti Fund to Cure Paralysis. This year Darrell donated a $25,000 custom wheelchair to a spinal cord injured girl from Orlando. The wheelchair will allow her to continue her rehabilitation and help her to be more active.
Event sponsors included: Title Sponsor GETTRX, Daytona International Speedway, Bass Pro Shops, Bass Online, Scherr Family Fund who donated the custom wheelchair, Aggressive Hydraulics, DMR, Dobbs Equipment, NASCAR, Halifax Health, Mission for Miracles and Stanley Black and Decker.
Crew Chief Adam Stevens in the Stanley-Black & Decker boat.
Darrell Gwynn (center) with our wheelchair recipient and the NASCAR Drivers and Guides.
Driver Timmy Hill in the Bass Pro boat.
2024 Darrell Gwynn Gainesville Gatornationals Track Walk
Each year at the Gainesville Gatornationals, Hall of Fame Drag Racer Darrell Gwynn, invites FANS to WALK FOR THOSE WHO CAN’T.
Fans truly enjoy having the unique opportunity to walk on the historic Gainesville Raceway track along with their favorite NHRA drivers.
Each year they come out in force as they did this past March. The Burnyzz Fanfest, hosted by NHRA Great Josh Hart and his amazing wife and Brittanie, also benefitted the Darrell Gwynn Chapter of The Buoniconti Fund and promises to be bigger and better to kick off 2025. Some of the other NHRA drivers who regularly participate include: John Force, Don Garlits, Antron Brown, Doug Kalitta, Troy Coughlin Jr, Jeg Coughlin, Jack Beckman, Leah Pruett, Matt Hagan, Richie Crampton, Ron Capps, Alexis DeJoria, Chad Green, Steve Johnson, Shawn Langdon, Tommy Johnson Jr., JR Todd, and so many more.
Will you walk for those who can’t?
Join us at the Gainesville Gatornationals in 2025! The Historic NHRA Gatornationals is set to open 2025 NHRA season on March 6-9, 2025 at the legendary Gainesville Raceway.
Tammy and Mark Leslie with NHRA driver Antron Brown.
Stacy Harris, Jerry Gwynn, Darrell, Josh Hart, Joan Gwynn and Brittanie Hart
NHRA driver Ron Capps signing autographs.
2024 Red Door Classic Charity Golf Tournament
The Red Door Classic proudly boasts being “South Florida’s funnest charity golf tournament,” but it isn’t just the fun and games that set it apart. This year’s event, hosted at the Miami Shores Country Club, not only delivered on the fun, but made a significant impact raising over $70,000 for worthy causes.
Since its inception in 2015, the Red Door Classic has been a driving force in philanthropy, accumulating just over $400,000 in charitable contributions. This year’s tournament benefited three worthy charities, including the Miami Chapter of the Buoniconti Fund, supporting our mission to cure paralysis through spinal cord injury research. Additionally, funds raised contribute to First Generation scholarships and leadership education grants at Florida International University and for members of Sigma Phi Epsilon at FIU.
The event is organized by the Thomas B Jelke Foundation in partnership with FIU Sigma Phi Epsilon Alumni and features Mark Marandino and Associates as the presenting sponsor. This collaboration underscores the tournament’s commitment to making a difference in the community through a fun, competitive spirit and generous support.
The next tournament will be held on March 7, 2025. Join us for another unforgettable day on the greens. To learn more or reserve your spot, please email tjelke@gmail.com
FIU Sigma Phi Epsilon Breaks Fundraising Record
Florida International University’s Sigma Phi Epsilon (SigEp) chapter proudly hosted their annual “Queen of Hearts Pageant,” setting a record by raising $41,538 for the Buoniconti Fund. This achievement marks the highest amount ever raised by an FIU chapter, showcasing the fraternity’s commitment to philanthropy and community service. Over the course of two weeks, the 100man undergraduate chapter of FIU SigEp collaborated with campus sororities to bring this significant event to life.
The Queen of Hearts Pageant is more than just a competitive event; it represents SigEp’s deep dedication to improving the lives of those affected by spinal cord injuries. The funds raised will directly support cutting-edge research aimed at finding a cure for paralysis, aligning perfectly with the Buoniconti Fund’s mission to inspire hope and create a brighter future for individuals facing these challenges.
This successful event highlights the positive influence of Greek life and the power of community involvement. Special recognition goes to the brothers who meticulously organized the event and to the contestants whose dedication was instrumental to its success.
With the steadfast support of the FIU community and its partners, FIU SigEp continues to make a significant impact, advancing the mission of the Buoniconti Fund and working towards a future free from the limitations of paralysis.
Jackson Memorial Adaptive Golf team playing in the Red Door Classic.
FIU SigEp brothers and campus sorority members present a check to Marc Buoniconti.
2024 Poker4Life to benefit The Buoniconti Fund
Charity Poker Championship was a tremendous success with another amazing turnout, the 19th Annual Poker4Life™. A special thank you to the entire team at Poker4Life, especially Jeremy Schwartz and Ethan Ruby, and all our guests, supporters and sponsors.
Congratulations to our 2024 Champion Joe Guarnari and the rest of the final table, and to the 2024 “All-In” Award recipient Peter Shapiro. We hope to see you at our 20th Annual Poker4Life™ Charity Poker Championship Event in 2025.
Ethan Ruby and Jeremy Schwartz founded Poker4Life in 2005. After hosting many charity poker tournaments at the Park Avenue Country Club in Manhattan, they realized how much of an impact poker can have in the world of charitable giving. Poker4Life was formed to harness The Positive Power of Poker by hosting charity poker tournaments to benefit all non-profit organizations. Their mission is to provide a forum for professional, celebrity and everyday poker players to come together and support causes they believe in while playing a game they enjoy.
Poker4Life has attracted thousands of poker players and philanthropists with their charity poker tournaments. Over the last 16 years they have raised millions for many worthwhile causes. The Buoniconti Fund is grateful to be the charity of choice for Poker4Life and we are happy that they continue to help us, and the many other worthwhile causes, raise money to make a difference through the great game of poker.
A Full House! Poker Players betting it all in Manhattan.
Jeremy Schwartz and Ethan Ruby
