HOW NCH IS REIMAGINING HEALTH CARE FROM THE INSIDE OUT.
CLEARED FOR TAKEOFF: BARRY SHEVLIN AND THE GROWTH OF FLY USA.
HOW DAVID COBA TURNED A BILLION-DOLLAR BRAND INTO A BLUEPRINT FOR HIS NEXT BIG MOVE.
SENATOR GEORGE LEMIEUX
ORAL REPRESENTATIONS CANNOT BE RELIED UPON AS CORRECTLY STATING REPRESENTATIONS OF THE DEVELOPER. FOR CORRECT REPRESENTATIONS, MAKE REFERENCE TO THIS BROCHURE AND THE DOCUMENTS REQUIRED BY SECTION 718.503, FLORIDA STATUTES, TO BE FURNISHED BY A DEVELOPER TO A BUYER OR LESSEE.
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ORAL REPRESENTATIONS CANNOT BE RELIED UPON AS CORRECTLY STATING REPRESENTATIONS OF THE DEVELOPER. FOR CORRECT REPRESENTATIONS, MAKE REFERENCE TO THIS BROCHURE AND THE DOCUMENTS REQUIRED BY SECTION 718.503, FLORIDA STATUTES, TO BE FURNISHED BY A DEVELOPER TO A BUYER OR LESSEE. The St. Regis Residences Bahia Mar, Fort Lauderdale, referred to for ease of reference as The St. Regis Residences, is a community of three towers: including Tower 1 of condominium residences developed by PRH/TRR BM Tower 1, LLC; Tower 2 of condominium residences developed by PRH/TRR BM Tower 2, LLC; and Resort Tower 3 which includes a condominium within a portion of a building or within a multiple parcel building developed by PRH/TRR BM Condo, LLC. For ease of reference, PRH/TRR BM Tower 1, LLC, PRH/TRR BM Tower 2, LLC, and PRH/TRR BM Condo, LLC are each a “Developer” and collectively the “Developers.” The St. Regis Residences are not owned, developed, or sold by Marriott International, Inc. or its affiliates (“Marriott”). The Developers use the St. Regis marks under a license from licensor, Marriott, which has not confirmed the accuracy of any of the statements or representations made about the projects by Developers. The Developers each also use the trade names, marks, and logos of the licensor, The Related Group®, which licensor is not a Developer of any tower. Artist’s conceptual renderings of exterior or site plan and depicting water, marina, surrounding buildings, or landmarks are modified with some surrounding buildings and landmarks omitted. Sketches, renderings, or photographs depicting lifestyle, amenities, food services, resort services, finishes, designs, materials, furnishings, plans, specifications, or art contained in this brochure are proposed only. The St. Regis Residences are developed on a site that is near water, but water access is not guaranteed. No specific view is guaranteed. The associations for each tower will be a part of a master association which will require payment of master association assessments. Some amenities described require payment of fees in addition to regular assessment payments. Consult the Developer’s Prospectus for the tower in which you desire to purchase to understand the offering, the amenities, the proposed budgets, terms, conditions, specifications, fees, unit dimensions and size calculation method, site plans, and to learn what is included with the purchase and the payment of regular assessments. The Developers are not residents of the State of New York, and the offerings of Developers are not intended for residents of New York nor any other jurisdiction in which such an
THERE'S NOTHING LIKE NEW
TABLE OF CONTENTS
THE FRONT
20 EDITOR’S LETTER
23 NEWS IN BRIEF
Short takes — because time is money.
30 WHY I BUILT IT FLY USA’s Barry Shevlin proves that sometimes the best business ideas really do take flight.
36 CRYPTO CORNER
Bitstop’s Doug Carillo separates signal from noise in the fastchanging world of digital finance.
THE MIDDLE
40 COVER STORY
Gunster’s Chairman George LeMieux on leadership, legacy, and life beyond the Senate.
46 THE BUSINESS OF HEALING
Nicklaus Children’s CFO on driving financial resilience while keeping care at the heart of every decision.
48 THE C-SUITE LIFE
Entrepreneur and Restaurateur, David Coba waxes wise on leadership, legacy, and life in the C-suite.
58 THE BALANCE SHEET
Running a business takes energy. Here’s how to get yours back—naturally.
THE BACK
62 BUILDING CONNECTIONS
66 LAST WORD ON THE COVER
Former U.S. Senator George LeMieux built his career on balance— between policy, purpose, and power.
CREATIVE DIRECTOR
Ben Johnston, Joel Feldman, Jennifer Fulton, Raelene Brooks, Doug Carillo, Jesse Scott
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The Future in Focus
stock of how far they’ve come and set their sights on what’s next. For South Florida Business & Wealth, that means closing 2025 on a high note with an issue centered on leadership, innovation, and the forces shaping the future.
Our November cover features Senator George LeMieux, a statesman and strategist whose insights on governance, ethics, and Florida’s economic growth remain as relevant as ever. In conversation with SFBW, he shares his perspective on what it takes to lead effectively in a time of rapid change, balancing principle with progress in both public and private sectors.
That balance between tradition and transformation runs through every page of this issue. From the expanding influence of crypto and digital finance to the region’s thriving tech ecosystem, our stories explore how innovation continues to redefine South Florida’s economic landscape. We’re also proud to debut
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NEWS IN BRIEF
ParallelBooms, DivergingBlueprints
FORT LAUDERDALE REACHES FOR THE SKY WHILE WEST PALM BEACH BUILDS ITS FINANCIAL FOUNDATION.
According to the latest development data, Fort Lauderdale currently has 99 projects on the map, compared to 57 in West Palm Beach. Nearly 61% of Fort Lauderdale’s projects are multifamily, with another 18% mixed-use, totaling more than 24,000 residential units. West Palm Beach’s mix skews smaller and less dense, with about 9,300 units across its multifamily and mixed-use pipeline.
Fort Lauderdale’s vertical growth has also spurred retail and hospitality expansion, including 993,000 square feet of new retail space and more than 3,600 hotel rooms in development—triple that of West Palm.
Meanwhile, West Palm Beach is fast becoming the region’s financial hub, with nearly 3.3 million square feet of office space in the pipeline and 693,000 square feet already under construction. That surge reflects the city’s growing reputation as the “Wall Street of the South,” drawing major financial firms and developers to its urban core.
Together, the two cities illustrate South Florida’s dual momentum: Fort Lauderdale rising higher, West Palm Beach building smarter.
THE ALL-STOCK DEAL FORMS A TOP-TEN U.S. BANK WITH $288 BILLION IN ASSETS AND NATIONWIDE REACH.
In one of the most significant U.S. banking mergers of the decade, Fifth Third Bancorp (Nasdaq: FITB) has announced plans to acquire Comerica Inc. (NYSE: CMA) in an all-stock transaction valued at $10.9 billion. The deal, representing a 20% premium to Comerica’s recent stock price, will create the
nation’s ninth-largest bank with $288 billion in assets and a footprint spanning 17 of the 20 fastest-growing markets in the country.
Comerica shareholders will receive 1.8663 Fifth Third shares for each Comerica share—valued at $82.88 per share—with closing expected by Q1 2026. Upon completion, Fifth Third shareholders will own 73% of the combined company and Comerica shareholders 27%.
“This combination marks a pivotal moment for Fifth Third,” said Tim Spence, Chairman, President and CEO of Fifth Third Bank. “Comerica’s strong middle-market franchise and complementary footprint make this a natural fit. Together, we are creating a stronger, more diversified bank positioned to deliver long-term value.”
The merger significantly extends Fifth Third’s reach beyond its Midwest base, aligning the combined bank with highgrowth regions across the Southeast, Texas, Arizona, and California. It will also unite two $1 billion fee-generating businesses—Commercial Payments and Wealth & Asset Management—to drive efficiency and shareholder returns.
Comerica CEO Curt Farmer called the merger “a natural evolution” that will allow both banks “to build on our shared heritage of relationship-based service.”
Griffin and Bezos Commit $7 Million to Transform Math Learning in Miami-Dade
THE THREE-YEAR INITIATIVE WILL BRING ADAPTIVE MATH INSTRUCTION TO 75 PUBLIC SCHOOLS BY 2028.
Ken Griffin, founder of Citadel and Griffin Catalyst, and the Bezos Family Foundation have announced a $7 million gift to expand a personalized math learning program across Miami-Dade County Public Schools—the fourth-largest school district in the nation.
The three-year initiative will fund the implementation of New Classrooms’ Teach to One Roadmaps, a program that tailors math instruction to each student’s proficiency level. It will launch in roughly 30 schools this year and expand to about 75 by 2028, though the district has not yet named which schools will participate.
I am proud to partner with the Bezos Family Foundation to bring this important initiative to students in Miami-Dade County.”
“New Classrooms is reimagining math education to help students reach their full potential,” Griffin said. “Every child deserves the opportunity to succeed in the classroom, and
Founded in 2011, New Classrooms designs adaptive learning solutions for public schools. Its CEO, Joel Rose, a North Miami Beach Senior High graduate, said the organization will customize a Miami-Dade version of Roadmaps aligned to the district’s curriculum.
The partnership also marks a return to local roots for both donors: Jeff Bezos graduated from Miami Palme o High School in 1982, and Griffin from Boca Raton Community High in 1986. Griffin’s latest gift builds on more than $100 million in education-focused philanthropy across South Florida since relocating to Miami in 2022.
help students pursue their ideal career
Affordable Ambition: Aspire 1650 Brings 90 Units to Pompano Beach
THE EIGHT-STORY PROJECT WILL BRING AFFORDABLE UNITS TO BROWARD COUNTY.
The Broward Partnership for the Homeless is expanding its mission beyond emergency services with plans for an eightstory affordable apartment building in Pompano Beach. The nonprofit has teamed up with Fort Lauderdale-based Green Mills Group—its partner on the Seven on Seventh affordable housing project in Fort Lauderdale—to develop the new community under Florida’s Live Local Act.
Called Aspire 1650, the project would rise on a three-acre vacant site next to the Broward Partnership’s existing shelter at 17300 N.W. 30th Ave. It would include 90 affordable apartments, a community/game room, fitness center, and conference room. The mix would feature eight studios, 68 one-bedrooms, and 14 two-bedrooms, supported by 239 surface parking spaces to allow for a potential second phase.
According to the application, the entire project will be dedicated to affordable housing, serving residents earning up to 120% of the area median income.
Designed by Gallo Herbert Architects, Aspire 1650 marks a new model of collaboration between nonprofits and private developers under the Live Local Act—an effort to address Broward County’s growing housing affordability crisis.
Lennar Grows Its Footprint After Buffett’s Big Bet
THE HOMEBUILDER’S LATEST SOUTH MIAMI-DADE ACQUISITION COMES JUST MONTHS AFTER BERKSHIRE HATHAWAY’S $575 MILLION VOTE OF CONFIDENCE.
Lennar Corp. (NYSE: LEN) continues to build momentum in South Florida with a new residential development in the Redland area west of Homestead, just months after Warren Buffe ’s Berkshire Hathaway took a major stake in the Miamibased homebuilder.
In October, a land bank acting on Lennar’s behalf paid $16.25 million for a 31-acre site at Krome Avenue and SW 288th Street/ Biscayne Drive. The seller, Four Aces Properties IV LLC, managed by Miami builder Peter Adrian, previously purchased the agricultural tract for $6 million in 2022. Its value rose sharply following approval for residential development.
The buyer, TPG AG EHC III (LEN) Multi State 6 LLC, is part of Essential Housing, a land bank operated by TPG Angelo Gordon. Under Lennar’s model, the builder doesn’t buy the land outright until homes are ready to deliver, reducing risk and capital exposure.
Plans for the property—marketed as Redlands Ridge—include 97 single-family homes, with 10% reserved as workforce housing for residents earning up to 140% of the area median income.
The expansion follows Berkshire Hathaway’s August disclosure that it purchased 5.3 million Lennar shares valued at $575 million, signaling confidence despite industry challenges and a recent lawsuit alleging construction defects at select Florida communities.
While Lennar’s second-quarter home-sales revenue slipped 7%, deliveries and new orders both climbed, underscoring steady demand across South Florida’s more affordable markets—a bet Buffe seems willing to back.
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WHY I BUILT IT
Florida.
Flying High with FlyUSA CEO Barry Shevlin
The Florida-based CEO and lifelong entrepreneur shares how a marketing experiment took flight—becoming one of America’s fastest-growing private aviation companies.
■ BY JESSE SCOTT
WHEN BARRY SHEVLIN
launched FlyUSA in early 2020, he wasn’t chasing headlines or a billion-dollar valuation. He was testing a theory. The longtime tech entrepreneur and pilot believed there was a be er way to connect flyers with aircraft within an industry long overdue for modernization. Fast-forward five years, and FlyUSA has become one of the nation’s fastest-growing private aviation companies, landing at No. 45 on the 2025 Inc. 5000 list and generating upward of $80 million in annual revenue.
Shevlin’s success story is rooted in Tampa Bay, where he grew his previous company, IT services firm Vology, from a $1 million startup in 2002 to a $175 million powerhouse before selling it in 2019. “I’ve spent my entire career growing businesses,” he tells SFBW. “We created great opportunities for employees and families, and that’s fulfilling. FlyUSA has carried that same
spirit—just at 30,000 feet.”
What began as a kitchen-table conversation evolved into a technology-enabled aviation firm with more than 2,000 retail clients, 100 employees, and 30 aircraft under management. FlyUSA’s business spans four divisions: on-demand retail charter, aircraft management, maintenance, and its certified air-taxi
Barry Shevlin, CEO of FlyUSA, inside the company’s private aviation hangar in
operations, which allow aircraft owners to charter their planes when not in use. That versatility has positioned the company as a top-to-bo om solution in private aviation.
For Shevlin, the spark came from frustration as much as fascination. As a CEO and pilot, he constantly fielded pitches from fractional-ownership and jet-card providers but found the industry’s sales playbook outdated. “It felt like everyone took the same shotgun approach—nationwide marketing, no personalization,” he says. “We wanted to build something more costeffective, reliable, and easy to do business with.”
FlyUSA’s approach—responsive, personalized, and easy—became its calling card. What started as $300,000 in 2020 sales ballooned to $4 million the next year, then $10 million, $20 million, $40 million, and now nearly $80 million. Its client base spans Florida and beyond, with heavy traffic between Opa-locka, Palm Beach, and major hubs like Teterboro, N.J., and Tampa.
A key differentiator has been Shevlin’s use of technology. FlyUSA’s proprietary mobile app and digital infrastructure give clients real-time visibility, seamless booking, and control over every flight. “I’ve been shocked by how paper-based this industry still is,” he says. “We’re a technology-enabled business at heart. Everything we build is designed to improve both employee and customer experience.”
FlyUSA’s ambitions aren’t slowing down. By 2027, Shevlin aims to manage 50 aircraft and reach $150 million in revenue. The company also owns
Clearwater Airpark (KCLW), giving it full control over maintenance, operations, and customer experience. That vertical integration—paired with a strong safety record and profitability—sets FlyUSA apart from flashier competitors chasing growth at all costs.
The company’s story also has a personal touch. Shevlin co-founded FlyUSA with his son-in-law, William Holtz, now its president and COO. “It’s been great watching him grow as a leader and executive,” Shevlin says. “We started this as a small project together, and it’s evolved into something special.”
Outside the cockpit, Shevlin and his wife, Kathy, are lifelong baseball fans who a end 30 to 40 games a year. The couple, who’ve built their businesses and family life in the Tampa Bay area, see FlyUSA not just as a company but as a community builder—one that connects people and possibilities across the friendly skies.
“The idea was simple,” Shevlin says. “We wanted to make private aviation more approachable, more personal, and more efficient. Everything else— growth, recognition, success—took care of itself.”
From the runway to the recline, FlyUSA keeps private travel effortless.
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CRYPTO CORNER
■ BY DOUG CARRILLO
The Infrastructure of Trust
WHAT SHOULD
South Florida businesses understand about Bitcoin today?
CARRILLO: Businesses need to separate speculation from infrastructure. There’s a big difference between chasing unproven tokens for quick gains and understanding assets like Bitcoin, which have matured, are clearly regulated, and are integrated into global markets.
Bitcoin isn’t an experiment anymore—it’s infrastructure. It’s reached a level of adoption and institutional support that gives it staying power. The key is taking a long-term view. Too many people think in days or months instead of years. If you zoom out five or ten years, you see a system with real durability and global relevance.
What would you say to companies hesitant about volatility?
CARRILLO: Volatility comes with any emerging technology that’s redefining how money moves. The key is to zoom out. Don’t get caught up in price charts or headlines—focus on the infrastructure being built.
Every major shift, from the internet to mobile to AI, went through speculation before finding stability. Crypto is no different. The builders who stay focused through those cycles shape what comes next. Once you see crypto as a system of rails rather than an asset class, the opportunity becomes obvious.
Where do you see the strongest business use cases?
CARRILLO: Payments are still the most powerful. When a customer pays you in crypto, the transaction is final—no chargebacks, no intermediaries, no risk of reversal. For global businesses, that’s huge.
It’s also transforming B2B payments. Paying vendors in crypto eliminates friction and delay from international wires. It’s faster, cheaper, and more direct.
There’s also a community effect. Accepting crypto signals alignment with a values-driven audience that believes in innovation and financial independence. That can strengthen loyalty and brand perception.
How is regulation evolving?
CARRILLO: We’re in the most constructive environment I’ve seen since getting into Bitcoin. Regulations aren’t suddenly “pro-business,” but they’re clearer—and clarity is the real breakthrough. It lets companies plan responsibly and innovate confidently.
For years, crypto businesses operated in the dark, interpreting contradictory guidance. Now, many major agencies are aligned, and the U.S. recognizes that digital assets are part of the financial future.
At Bitstop, that clarity directly impacts how we build. We design technology that’s compliant by architecture— every layer of our ATM software, fraud prevention, and onboarding aligns with current and emerging regulations. That’s what allows us to scale safely while keeping the experience simple and secure.
Security is still a concern for many. How should businesses approach it?
CARRILLO: Knowledge is everything. In traditional finance, safety is outsourced to a bank. In crypto, you have real control—and real responsibility.
The biggest risk isn’t the technology, it’s using it casually. People click through things too fast and don’t double-
Bitstop’s Doug Carrillo on Bitcoin’s evolution, regulation, and why South Florida businesses can’t afford to ignore digital assets.
check. You have to slow down, think about how you’re storing value, and learn the basics.
Once you do, crypto can be even more secure than traditional systems. You can hold value directly, protect your privacy, and transact globally without intermediaries. That’s why at Bitstop, we make the entry point simple: walk up to a machine, buy a small amount of crypto, and start
learning by doing.
Why has South Florida become such a crypto hub?
CARRILLO: South Florida has always been a global crossroads—it’s where finance, culture, and technology meet. Crypto is about access and inclusion, and this region embodies that. People here understand multiple currencies, remittances, and
financial independence.
At Bitstop, we’ve seen it firsthand. South Florida is the perfect proving ground for bridging physical cash with digital assets in a way that’s accessible, secure, and familiar. The region’s role will only grow as it becomes a blueprint for how financial access and digital infrastructure can coexist globally.
How will crypto and traditional finance intersect over the next five years?
CARRILLO: Soon there won’t be a distinction—they’ll be part of the same system. Most major banks and asset managers already have digital-asset programs.
Crypto forced competition. It pushed traditional finance to modernize, lower fees, and improve transparency. Over time, you’ll see complete blending. It’ll be normal to log into your bank and hold crypto alongside your checking balance. Crypto isn’t replacing the system—it’s upgrading it.
What’s your advice to entrepreneurs preparing for a digital future?
CARRILLO: Get involved. The best way to future-proof your business is to start learning by doing. Set up a noncustodial wallet, learn self-custody, and understand how digital payments move across networks. You’ll learn more from small, hands-on experiences than from watching headlines.
Everything from payments to international transfers is shifting toward digital rails. Ignoring it would be like dismissing the internet in the ’90s.
ABOUT BITSTOP:
Founded in 2013, Miami-based Bitstop was one of the first companies to introduce Bitcoin ATMs in the U.S. Its infrastructure connects physical cash with digital currency, empowering individuals to access the global digital economy securely and simply. bitstop.co.
DECEMBER, 13 2025
Get Ready for the Ultimate Holiday Spectacle! The Seminole Hard Rock Winterfest Boat Parade
“This year, Winterfest isn’t just making waves –we’re making history!”
This year’s Seminole Hard Rock Winterfest Boat Parade is all about the WOW! – and we’re cranking up the excitement like never before! Prepare for a show-stopping night on the water featuring jaw-dropping new entries that will leave fans cheering. From an electrifying EDMthemed boat, a mesmerizing Polynesian fire-dancers to our daring “Extreme Holiday” spectacle featuring motorcycles inside a cage and holiday finale barge – the thrills just keep coming!
Feel the rhythm with a vibrant Junkanoo band, wave to surprise celebrities aboard the Republic National Distributing Company entry, and watch Santa arrive in true Amazon style. Our Grand Marshals will sparkle on the Fifth Third Bank Showboat, making this a magical evening celebrating artistry, and holiday joy.
Now celebrating 54 years of Winterfest magic, we invite you to be part of the City of Fort Lauderdale and South Florida’s most spectacular holiday tradition – the 12-mile Seminole Hard Rock Winterfest® Boat Parade, gliding from Downtown Fort Lauderdale to Pompano Beach on December 13th. This year’s theme, “Yacht Rock of Ages,” pays tribute to the timeless tunes that make us smile.
Expect a dazzling mix of paddleboarders, kayakers, pontoons, fishing boats, cabin cruisers, and mega-yachts, as families, nonprofits, and companies like LaGassee Pools, FPL, TWO MEN AND A TRUCK, and Visit Lauderdale light up the event with holiday sparkle.
Don’t have a boat? No problem! Catch the Parade from designated viewing areas along the Intracoastal or watch the live stream to experience the magic from anywhere.
There’s no place like South Florida and Greater Fort Lauderdale for the holidays – and no event like Seminole Hard Rock Winterfest Boat Parade to light up your season!”
So, gather your family, friends, and holiday spirit – enter your boat, buy your tickets, or become a partner – and let’s make this year’s Winterfest the brightest celebration yet.
Happy Holidays! We’ll see you at the Parade!
Lisa Scott -Founds and Robyn Vines
President & CEO Chairwoman of the Board
“The World’s Most Watched Boat Parade” captivates over 1 million spectators annually. Call 954-767-0686 or visit WinterfestParade.com #WinterfestFL | Like us on Facebook
Robyn Vines and Lisa Scott-Founds
GEORGE LEMIEUX
IS LEADING FLORIDA FORWARD
Hugh “Bill” Perry and George LeMieux
f you’ve spent any time doing business in Florida, odds are George LeMieux’s name has crossed your desk. The Fort Lauderdale native has worn many hats: U.S. senator, gubernatorial chief of staff, and, for nearly two decades, chairman of Gunster, one of Florida’s preeminent full-service law firms. His résumé reads like a Florida civics textbook, and his fingerprints are all over the state’s biggest deals and debates.
But in 2025, LeMieux isn’t looking back—he’s hyperfocused on shaping Florida’s next chapter.
“I’m the chair for the next two years of the Council of 100,” LeMieux tells SFBW. “It’s a group of Florida CEOs working to make sure Florida is the best place to move, build, and grow a business. It’s a very exciting time to be in this state.”
The State of the State
LeMieux ra les off statistics with the enthusiasm of a startup founder and the knowledge of a Florida historian. “We’re the fastest-growing state in the country, number one for starting businesses, and $4.2 million of wealth an hour is moving to Florida,” he says.
Still, he notes, rapid growth brings challenges. His Council of 100 priorities include a ainable housing, resiliency, and education. “We’re making sure our workforce has a place to live, that we’re ready for weather events and flooding... and that we’re educating a great workforce,” he explains.
The Council will soon present recommendations to state leaders. “We were instrumental in expanding affordable housing funding,” LeMieux says. “Now we’re pushing for property tax reform to reward homeowners who make their homes more resilient.”
THE CLIMATE IN FLORIDA IS A LOT BETTER THAN THE CLIMATE IN WASHINGTON. PEOPLE HERE WORK TOGETHER REGARDLESS OF POLITICAL DIFFERENCES.”
100 Years of Gunster—and Counting Back at Gunster, where LeMieux has spent 31 years (save for public service detours), there’s plenty to celebrate. Founded in 1925, the firm has evolved into one of Florida’s leading full-service law practices, with more than 320 a orneys in 13 offices.
“This year, we published a book chronicling our history, opened a Coral Gables office, and brought in new lawyers,” he says. “We’ve had tremendous success.”
Gunster’s growth, LeMieux notes, stems from a people-first philosophy. “Our mission statement hangs in every office: the most important people are the people we pay, not the people who pay us,” he says. “If we focus on our team members, they’ll take great care of our clients.”
And while many firms expand to New York, London, or other global hubs, Gunster remains all-in on Florida. “If Florida were a country, it would be the 15th-largest economy in the world,” LeMieux says. “There’s plenty to do right here.”
A Florida Man (in the Best Sense) LeMieux joined Gunster in 1994,
mentored by legendary a orneys like Bob Hackleman and Don “Bu e” Beu enmuller. “They gave me opportunities most folks didn’t get,” he says. “They also supported me when I went into public service and welcomed me back.”
His forays into politics included serving as Florida’s chief deputy a orney general, chief of staff to Governor Charlie Crist, and a stint in the U.S. Senate. Today, he remains a go-to counsel for complex, high-stakes cases, representing Fortune 500 companies, healthcare systems, and, at the moment, The Wall Street Journal in a defamation suit involving the president of the United States.
“I’ve been fortunate to try cases all around the country,” he says. “The phone keeps ringing, and I’m grateful for that.”
Still, Fort Lauderdale remains home base. “I was born and raised here,” he says. “It’s an amazing place to live, raise a family, and do business. It’s the Venice of America— perfectly placed between Palm Beach and Miami.”
Building Broward’s Next Boom
LeMieux’s civic footprint rivals
below: On stage wtih Robert M. Gates, 22nd United States Secretary of Defense.
his legal one. Among his endeavors, he’s chaired the Broward Center for the Performing Arts Foundation and helped launch the Broward County Debate Initiative, a growing annual competition for local students.
“The number one thing Broward County needs is to a ract more businesses,” he says. “We’re not keeping
left: Gunster’s Palm Beach office.
pace with Palm Beach or Miami-Dade. Everyone wants to live downtown, but we need more startups and relocations here.”
He’s equally passionate about the arts. “The Broward Center ranks in the top five nationally, and Parker Playhouse is in the top ten for its size,” he says. “That creative energy is what makes Fort Lauderdale special.”
The Gentleman Statesman
In an era of division, LeMieux stands out for his civility. “I think the climate in Florida is a lot be er than the climate in Washington,” he says. “People here work together regardless of political differences.”
WE’RE THE FASTESTGROWING STATE IN THE COUNTRY, NUMBER ONE FOR STARTING BUSINESSES, AND $4.2 MILLION OF WEALTH AN HOUR IS MOVING TO FLORIDA.”
Through his LeMieux Center for Public Policy at Palm Beach Atlantic University, he fosters respectful debate. “Our focus is on conversations between people with different views in a civil way,” he says. “We need much more of that in this country.” Does that mean he might return to politics? LeMieux laughs. “When people ask me that, I say, ‘I thought you liked me.’ Not at this time. I’m happy with my work at Gunster, my community involvement, and being a dad.”
In a Florida that’s booming, complex, and ever-evolving, George LeMieux remains one of its steadiest voices—a lawyer, leader, and lifelong advocate for the place he calls home.
L to R: George “Max” LeMieux (son), Chase LeMieux (son), Karen LeMieux (mom), Taylor LeMieux (son), Madeleine LeMieux (daughter), George LeMieux, Caryn Botknecht (fiancée)
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BEYONDTHE BALANCE SHEET
Powering Pediatric Healthcare in South Florida
■ BY JESSICA GRAVES
umbers tell a story. In the hands of Dawn Javersack, Chief Financial Officer of Nicklaus Children’s Health System (NCH), those numbers don’t just live in spreadsheets—they become surgical towers, lifesaving screenings, and community partnerships that stretch across South Florida.
“I have had the privilege of serving as the Chief Financial Officer of Nicklaus Children’s Health System for a li le over five years,” Javersack says. “Overall, I’ve spent most of my professional career in healthcare finance, serving in various progressive finance leadership positions for 35 years.”
A Personal Calling
“What first drew me into healthcare finance was a combination of personal experience and professional interest,” she reflects. “Growing up, I saw firsthand how important healthcare is to families, including my own, and how much the financial aspect can impact access to care. At the same time, I discovered I really enjoyed working with complex issues, analyzing data and problem solving. I didn’t just want to apply those skills in a traditional finance role—I wanted them to connect to something more meaningful.”
That connection, she adds, made healthcare finance “the perfect fit. It’s complex, always evolving, and it challenges me to keep learning. But what I value most is knowing that the work I do ultimately supports patients and their families. For me, it’s about more than the numbers— it’s about making sure resources are being used in ways that improve care and outcomes.”
That mission has found a natural
home in South Florida. “From a personal perspective, I love the cultural diversity and year-round sunshine. There’s a strong sense of community despite being a large and growing urban area,” Javersack says. “From a professional perspective, I love the exciting, dynamic market with opportunities for growth and innovation. I have thrived on the ability to serve my community while building a strong career and meaningful professional relationships.”
“As CFO, living our mission centers on financial stewardship that directly supports care excellence and access for every child,” she explains. That stewardship has meant investments in critical programs and facilities like the Kenneth C. Griffin Surgical Tower, new technologies, and specialty institutes devoted to heart, brain, and cancer care. Even as nearly 70 percent of patients are considered underinsured, Nicklaus has secured A+ (Fitch) and A (S&P) bond ratings. “We always focus on financial discipline and stability, including cost management, revenue optimization and ensuring strong cash reserves,” Javersack adds.
Reinventing Financial Culture
Under her leadership, finance at Nicklaus Children’s is anything but dull. In 2022, the hospital introduced “Game Changers,” a performance improvement program that turned cost savings and efficiency into a collaborative challenge, complete with themes like Margin Madness and Space Adventures. “We believe the success of Game Changers is a result of the collaboration and accountability, combined with senior leadership commitment and transparency,” she explains. “We ask for input, listen to ideas and give our leaders ownership over the process. We celebrate our wins! We have also made it ‘fun’ by incorporating fun themes in a way of addressing complex issues.”
The program has delivered more
than 5,000 plans and $42.5 million in operating improvements through 2024.
That blend of creativity and discipline ensures the hospital’s impact stretches far beyond its walls. Javersack recalls the story of Jamie, a boy whose congenital heart condition was discovered during a free EKG screening at a City of Miami summer camp. “Because this condition was identified early, the Heart Institute team was able to intervene promptly in the cardiac
“EXPANSION IS GUIDED BY COMMUNITY NEEDS— ALWAYS ANCHORED IN QUALITY, MISSION, AND LOCAL “ACCESSIBILITY.”
catheterization lab, providing lifesaving treatment,” she says. “Today, Jamie is thriving, and his family has peace of mind about his future.”
Partnerships also extend Nicklaus’s reach. “Our strategic alliances, such as with Baptist Health, extend Nicklaus Children’s outreach and strengthen access to high quality pediatric care across South Florida,” Javersack notes. “Through this collaboration, our pediatric specialists staff Baptist’s pediatric emergency departments, ensuring families receive consistent, expertled care close to home.” Similar collaborations with Broward Health, Jupiter Medical Center, and Naples Comprehensive Healthcare help reduce the distances families must travel to access specialty care. “Expansion is guided by strategic regional alignment, partnerships, and community needs—always anchored in quality, mission, and local accessibility,” she adds. Leadership, for Javersack, is about people as much as performance.
“For me, focusing on people really shapes how I lead,” she says. “Finance is important, but numbers alone don’t drive results, people do. I try to create an environment where team members feel respected, supported and empowered to bring their ideas forward. I find that when people are valued, they are more engaged and commi ed, and that makes us stronger as a team. In a positive, collaborative culture, even difficult financial decisions can be opportunities for growth, rather than just stress points.”
That philosophy has earned recognition beyond Nicklaus. In 2023, she was named CFO of the Year in the nonprofit category. “On a personal level, it was a moment of immense gratitude and reflection,” she says. “Professionally, the honor is a testament to the collective efforts of the incredible teams I’ve had the privilege to work with.”
Looking Ahead
“I hope my legacy reflects a commitment to financial stewardship that directly supported our mission to inspire hope and promote lifelong health by providing the best care to every child,” Javersack says. “I want to be remembered for implementing financial strategies that ensured the hospital’s long-term sustainability, enabling investments in cu ingedge technology, and expanded access to care for all children.”
But if she could leave one message with the Nicklaus community, it’s this: “You ma er, and your work ma ers. I’d want everyone to remember how much their dedication changes lives every day. The mission we serve is worth every effort we put into it.”
In Javersack’s hands, the numbers add up to something far greater than financial performance—they add up to healthier children, stronger families, and a future for South Florida that proves a good CFO is more than just a bean counter. She’s a lifeline.
Wax. Wellness. Worthwyld.
For David Coba, the through line is experience.
■ BY JESSICA GRAVES
ENTREPRENEURSHIP ISN’T
something David Coba stumbled into—it’s embedded in his DNA. A serial entrepreneur with more than 30 years of experience building consumer brands, he was raised in North Miami Beach and managing his father’s salon while still in high school, handling payroll, billing, vendor relations, and customer service while keeping up with classes. At the same time, he launched a custom woodworking business, which he successfully ran for several years. “Those early experiences taught me the value of hard work, creative problem-solving, and creating systems that help people and businesses thrive,” he says. “They laid the foundation for everything I’ve done since.”
By the time most of his peers were preparing for college, Coba was managing two very different enterprises and learning to prioritize, streamline, and think strategically. That discipline—and the ability to create scalable systems—would become the hallmark of his career.
In 1999, he closed the woodworking business and returned to the industry that had first shaped his work ethic. He opened a salon of his own and immediately focused on operational efficiency and the guest experience. “I led a full overhaul of our systems and introduced an experience-driven philosophy that helped grow the business from 500 client visits per week to over 500 per day, all through word-of-mouth,” he recalls.
recognition validated our approach of building from the inside out—growing talent from within and focusing on values rather than shortcuts,” he says.
The company’s success was more than scale; it pioneered a membership-based model that redefined the waxing industry by making beauty services more accessible, consistent, and experience-driven. It also became a recognized innovator in franchising and lifestyle beauty branding, supported by worldclass operations and a talent management structure that set new industry standards.
Scaling at that pace brought challenges. Early on, the leadership team faced a decision between investing in senior executives or investing in brand systems. “We chose the brand,” Coba explains. “We believed that if we could find people who truly shared our values, we could teach them how to run the business. That’s exactly what we did.” For him, every decision—good or bad—was part of the growth process. “A true mistake is only when you fail to learn and end up repeating the same lesson twice. Every decision, whether it’s a win or a loss, teaches you something new. That’s how you grow.”
AT THIS STAGE, SUCCESS IS MEASURED BY IMPACT, LEGACY,
AND THE JOY OF BUILDING SOMETHING THAT TRULY MATTERS.”
A breakthrough came in 2003, when Coba launched a membership program for waxing services, generating $100,000 in just six weeks. That innovation revealed the scalable potential of wax-only centers and set the stage for his next venture. “That experience eventually led to the founding of European Wax Center in 2004,” he says.
The first location opened in January, the second by November, and within a few years the concept had grown to five centers. By 2011, European Wax Center had been named Inc. Magazine’s No. 1 Franchise in the Country. Over the next decade, it scaled from a single South Florida location into a national franchising leader with more than 750 centers, without a single closure. “That
Over time, European Wax Center transitioned from a founder-led startup to a public company, with investments from private equity in 2013, a strategic partnership with General Atlantic in 2018, and ultimately a 2021 IPO that raised $180 million at a valuation of roughly $1.2 billion. While certain shareholders sold stock during the IPO, public filings don’t disclose a complete founder exit or a personal sale price for Coba. After retiring from European Wax Center, he redirected his entrepreneurial energy toward hospitality. In 2023, he acquired Myapapaya, a Fort Lauderdale café known for scratch-made smoothies, cold-pressed juices, and whole natural cuisine. There, he led a full-scale reinvention, refining the brand’s voice, operations, culture, and design. That experience sparked the vision for Worthwyld, a full-service, all-day café built around what he calls Food Uncompromised™.
“Food Uncompromised™ is about doing things the right way—real ingredients, sourced with intention, prepared with care, and served with soul,” he says. “No shortcuts. No pretending. Just food the way it should be.”
The flagship Worthwyld opened in early October on Las Olas, in the space formerly home to the Royal Pig. The location was chosen for its visibility and central role in Fort Lauderdale’s dining scene. Having already seen strong demand for wellness-driven dining through Myapapaya, Coba knew the audience existed. “Las Olas was an obvious choice,” he says. “It’s the heart of the community.”
Coba credits his ability to scale across industries to a consistent framework. “The foundation of any successful business is
THE BIGGEST LESSON I’VE LEARNED IS THAT GROWTH WITHOUT A STRONG FOUNDATION CREATES
MORE CHALLENGES THAN OPPORTUNITIES.”
consistency,” he says. “At the same time, innovation is inevitable. To balance the two, I rely on five key pillars: systems, structure, organization, education, and technology. These elements create a stable environment that supports consistency while also making room for innovation.”
His leadership style, he adds, has evolved with time. “In the beginning, I believed I could figure things out. Now I lead from experience—I’ve done it, I’ve seen what works, and I’ve learned from what didn’t. At European Wax Center, it took more than a decade to build the foundation. With Worthwyld, I applied those lessons from day one. That’s why Worthwyld looks and operates like a brand with 50 locations, even though we’re just ge ing started.”
Company culture, he emphasizes, is the key ingredient. “When the team genuinely loves where they work and what the brand stands for, that energy is felt by our guests,” he says.
South Florida remains central to his entrepreneurial identity. “Growing up in North Miami Beach, I’ve been exposed to diversity, resilience, and a sense of community. That environment shaped my outlook and continues to influence how I approach every venture, including Worthwyld.”
For him, success today is measured differently than it was in his early career. “At this stage, success is measured by impact, legacy, and the joy of building something that truly ma ers,” he says. “It’s about creating meaningful experiences, strengthening communities, and leaving behind something that lasts.” Outside of business, he prioritizes family. Married with two daughters, he enjoys traveling with them, skiing, and playing pickleball. “It’s all about balance, staying energized, and being present— in both work and life.”
From scaling European Wax Center into a global franchising leader to creating Worthwyld on Las Olas, David Coba has consistently applied the same fundamentals: strong systems, disciplined strategy, and values-driven leadership. His career reflects a broader lesson for executives across industries: growth is only sustainable when it is built on a foundation of consistency, culture, and accountability.
WHEN POLICY MEETS PAYROLL
Immigration reforms are forcing South Florida businesses to rethink strategy. Kapitus COO Ben Johnston explains where challenges may become opportunities.
■ BY BEN JOHNSTON
PHOTOGRAPHY BY EDUARDO SCHNEIDER
mmigration policy is quietly reshaping America’s labor market, tightening the pool of available workers, driving up costs in key industries, and shifting how international talent enters the country. For South Florida, where technology, finance, hospitality, and construction depend on global expertise, the implications are profound.
To be er understand the business impact, we spoke with Ben Johnston, Chief Operating Officer of Kapitus, a small business lender that has provided financing solutions to entrepreneurs for nearly two decades. Through its lending work, Kapitus tracks the pressures facing business owners, from rising wage costs to labor shortages. Immigration reform, Johnston says, is one of the most immediate challenges influencing both workforce strategy and financial planning.
A Fee That Raises Questions
For Johnston, immigration reform is inseparable from the financial pressures his clients face. One of the most striking proposals is a $100,000 application fee for the H-1B visa program, a change that has drawn concern across industries. His reaction is measured. While the headline number is staggering, he explains, the H-1B process is dominated by corporate giants such
as Amazon, Microsoft, Meta, Apple, JPMorgan, and Deloi e. These companies, he notes, “place a lifetime value of each H-1B visa at greater than $100,000” and are unlikely to pull back. Still, changes to the H-1B lo ery now favor higher-paid applicants, tilting opportunities toward more experienced international professionals at the expense of recent graduates. “This could negatively impact U.S. colleges and universities that have grown their international student populations with the expectation that many of these graduates would obtain H-1Bs upon graduation,” Johnston says.
South Florida’s Labor Reality
While Silicon Valley may feel the direct hit of H-1B changes, South Florida’s economy relies on a wider mix of visa programs. Johnston points to H-2A and H-2B visas for seasonal workers, O-1 visas for individuals with extraordinary ability, and EB preference categories for permanent residency. These programs deliver the skilled and unskilled labor that fuel the region’s hospitality, agriculture, construction, and service sectors. “For industries like hospitality, manufacturing, agriculture, and construction, these visas are far more critical than the H-1B,” Johnston emphasizes. Still, technology, consulting, and financial services firms with a growing presence in South Florida may feel ripple effects.
Rising Costs, Rising Innovation
Any contraction in the labor pool, Johnston warns, drives up costs. Wage inflation has outpaced overall inflation since spring 2023, and with the Baby Boomer generation retiring in record numbers, immigration has historically filled critical labor gaps. Tightening immigration policies risk pushing wages higher and margins thinner. Yet constraint can also spark creativity. “Higher wage costs inspire businesses to innovate,” Johnston explains. “In the age of artificial intelligence, we are seeing new automation tools, from customer service chat to back-office accounting, that reduce dependency on human labor while enhancing efficiency.”
Construction at a Crossroads
Construction, a sector already under strain in South Florida due to high demand and limited labor, could feel an outsized impact. Immigrant workers make up a large share of the workforce in residential and commercial building, and tighter visa restrictions may slow project timelines or drive costs even higher. “If businesses cannot access the skilled labor they need, projects take longer and become more expensive,” Johnston cautions. “That affects everything from housing affordability to infrastructure development.”
A shortage of immigrant construction workers, he adds, would ripple into related industries, from suppliers and subcontractors to developers and real estate investors.
Planning Ahead
What can business owners do now? Johnston stresses proactive financial management and scenario planning. “Well-capitalized businesses with strong cashflow are best positioned to weather storms,” he says. Monitoring profitability levers, keeping financing options open, and building workforce redundancy are key. For companies dependent on visas, Johnston recommends applying early, creating staffing buffers, recruiting more domestic talent, and investing in AI tools that reduce reliance on foreign labor.
Despite the challenges, Johnston sees opportunity. “Necessity is the mother of invention,” he says. “It is in times of disruption that new business models and technologies emerge. I expect many business owners, faced with hiring constraints, will innovate in ways that ultimately strengthen the economy.”
For South Florida’s business leaders, the message is clear: immigration policy is no longer a distant, Washington-driven debate but a bo om-line reality shaping margins, talent pipelines, and competitiveness. Whether you are running a hospitality group, managing a construction firm, or scaling a tech startup, preparing for labor constraints through smart financing, early planning, and strategic innovation is essential. As Johnston underscores, disruption also creates openings, and the companies that adapt fastest will define South Florida’s next chapter of growth.
Nicklaus Children’s is a trusted leader in pediatric care, serving families across South Florida and beyond. With eight locations in Broward County, we’re making world-class care more accessible than ever. Now in Davie, our newest location connects families to pediatric specialists in cardiology, gastroenterology, neurology, orthopedics, plastic surgery, and spine & scoliosis all delivered with the same exceptional care you expect from Nicklaus Children’s.
BALANCE SHEET
■ BY RAELENE BROOKS
Recharge Naturally
How to Boost Energy and Beat the Seasonal Slump
As the days grow shorter and the air turns crisp, many of us start to slow down. A cozy night in sounds nice—but when fatigue lingers and motivation wanes, it can leave you feeling more drained than rested. The good news? There are natural ways to boost your energy and help your body and mind find their rhythm again.
Before diving in, remember: these tips are for general informational and educational purposes only. Always consult your physician or qualified healthcare provider before making changes to your health or treatment plan.
Why Energy Levels Drop
Feeling tired isn’t always just about a lack of sleep. Energy depends on how well our body moves oxygen and nutrients through its systems—and a surprising number of factors can get in the way.
• Limited Sunlight: Sunlight helps the brain produce serotonin, a neurotransmitter that regulates mood and focus. Less daylight in winter can lower serotonin and
Vitamin D levels, both linked to fatigue and low mood.
• Dehydration: Even mild dehydration can shrink red blood cells, reducing their ability to carry oxygen. The result? Fatigue, irritability, and restlessness.
• Digestive Issues: When digestion slows—whether from illness, medication, or diet—nutrient absorption suffers. Blood is redirected to the digestive system, pulling energy away from other tissues.
• Blood Sugar Imbalance: High blood sugar (hyperglycemia) thickens the blood and damages red blood cells, impeding oxygen delivery.
• Thyroid Problems: An underactive thyroid slows metabolism, which can make you feel sluggish and foggy.
• Kidney or Heart Disease: Both organs play roles in oxygen transport—so when they’re under strain, fatigue often follows.
• Sleep Apnea: Interrupted breathing during sleep leads to poor oxygen exchange, causing grogginess and
Raelene Brooks, Ph.D., RN, is the Dean of the College of Nursing at University of Phoenix
irritability during the day.
• Given how many systems contribute to energy, even one imbalance can leave your body feeling “low battery.”
How to Reignite Your Energy
• The body is remarkably adaptive, and small, consistent changes can make a big difference.
• Soak Up the Sun: A few minutes of sunlight supports serotonin production, improves mood, and helps the body make Vitamin D—key for bone health, blood pressure regulation, and energy metabolism.
• Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate: Proper hydration plumps up red blood cells, improving their ability to carry oxygen throughout the body. Aim to sip water consistently throughout the day rather than all at once.
• Move Your Body: Physical activity—whether a brisk walk or light stretching— increases circulation and oxygen flow, delivering a natural energy lift.
• Breathe Deeply: Taking slow, intentional breaths increases oxygen intake and helps the body relax, restoring both calm and vitality.
• Once energy starts to return, consistency is key. The longer you maintain healthy habits, the more stable your energy will become.
When to Seek Medical Advice
If fatigue persists despite lifestyle changes—or if it’s accompanied by shortness of breath, dizziness, or pain in the chest, neck, back, or abdomen—contact a healthcare professional immediately.
People with chronic conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, obesity, or high cholesterol should be especially vigilant. Persistent fatigue could indicate a more serious metabolic or cardiovascular issue.
About the Author
Raelene Brooks, Ph.D., RN is the Dean of the College of Nursing at the University of Phoenix. With decades of experience in health education and patient care, Dr. Brooks is passionate about empowering individuals to take proactive steps toward better health and well-being.
COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS
ROSÉ
SOIRÉE
The
Rosé Soirée united the
community to support Junior Achievement of South Florida and honor local leaders.
This year’s Rosé Soirée brought together community leaders and supporters for an evening of elegance and philanthropy. Guests gathered at The Galleria to raise critical funds for Junior Achievement of South Florida while celebrating the achievements of local women. The event welcomed 10 new members into the Circle of Wise Women, awarded a scholarship to Solena Joachim, recognized Spark Award honoree Taylor Heitner, and honored this year’s WOW Woman, Lisa Duke.
Walter Duke, Baby, Lisa Duke
Alyssa Lovitt, Susan Renneisen
Juliet Murphy Roulhac, Debbie Savage, Kim Sarni
Jennifer Starkey
COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS
Taylor Heitner, Robyn Raphael Dynan
Karen Castoria, Rachel Kantosky, Monica Navarro, Yasha Riley, Patrick Daoud, Dyan Delfin, Diane Cruz, Ana Samiresan, Dr. Vanessa Herrera
Laurie Sallarulo, Sharon Gustafson-Florescue, Kim Sarni, Elizabeth Rogue, Diana Metcalf, Julia Williamson-Bressett, Jennifer Starkey, Sharon Alexander, Adrinia Woods
Maureen Canada, Stephanie Toothaker, Lisa Duke, Debbie Banks-Synder, Maureen Rotella
8 BEDS | 6.5 BATHS | 6,250 SF OFFERED AT $27,500,000
Located in Fort Lauderdale’s exclusive Harbor Beach, this Intracoastal trophy point lot estate offers 300+ feet of waterfront, a premier south-facing dock for yachts over 100’ and sweeping views throughout. The lot spans over 21,000 SF and includes a main residence and guest house with a sky terrace and a tropical pool area ideal for entertaining. Designed by architect Ed LeBlanc, the home features a Bulthaup kitchen, whole-house generator and a new 2025 solar paneled roof. Enjoy unmatched privacy and luxury just minutes from Port Everglades Inlet, downtown/ Las Olas and the international airport. Harbor Beach residents enjoy a private beach club, private marina and private security patrol.
Skincare from the Inside Out
Beauty is more than skin deep. In the world of aesthetic and integrative/functional medicine – it’s an intricate balance of health, artistry, and attention to detail. At Icon Aesthetics & Wellness in Pompano Beach, Florida, Chad Van Horn, PA-C, embodies this philosophy by redefining beauty standards with a holistic approach.”
YOUR WELLNESS DESTINATION.
From unlimited group fitness, to personalized coaching, to resort-like spaces with spa and dining experiences, Midtown Athletic Club is your destination for immersive wellness.
Scan to explore what Midtown has to offer.
INSPIRES HOPE
A Family Heals Together, Gives Back Together
Joe Lubeck’s connection to Cleveland Clinic began years ago when his father needed complex surgery, and the best place to get it was Cleveland Clinic. Joe’s father underwent a major cardiac procedure and went on to live another 23 healthy years. Years later, Joe himself began experiencing heart complications. After multiple stents and worsening symptoms, Joe once again turned to Cleveland Clinic.
Today, Joe is grateful—not just for his recovery, but for the opportunity to give back. His family established a first-of-its-kind program to deepen clinical exchange and expertise between Cleveland Clinic’s Ohio and Florida cardiac teams. “They saved my life,” he says. “This is my way of making sure others have access to that same level of care.”
Your gift makes an impact on patient care. Donate today at Cle.Clinic/FloridaGiving
