Read inspiring stories of hope from patients and families treated at Nicklaus Children's Hospital.
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April 03, 2025 – Matthew was diagnosed with Phelan-McDermid Syndrome (PMS), a rare genetic disorder that affects development, speech, and cognitive ability, and requires extensive medical care and round-the-clock support. Despite his challenges, Matthew radiates love and joy, and his family is advocating for increased awareness of PMS while seeking potential treatments for the condition.
March 31, 2025 – At three, Adam's family moved to Florida, where they started fresh with a new medical team for his stage four Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD). At Nicklaus Children’s Hospital, Adam received expert care from a multidisciplinary team of specialists from Nicklaus Children’s Division of Nephrology, Division of Endocrinology, and Division of Gastroenterology, all who helped him overcome various health issues and be where he is today.
February 04, 2025 – Kimberly and her husband learned their unborn son, Jack, had a congenital heart defect (Transposition of the Great Arteries), and after being referred to Nicklaus Children's Hospital for specialized care, Jack underwent open-heart surgery within days of his birth, leaving his future uncertain.
December 30, 2024 – Born prematurely, twin brothers Benjamin and Emilio have faced health challenges since birth. Parents Maria Paula and Francisco’s concerns intensified when one twin’s stomach became grossly distended. Within a year, both boys were diagnosed with Hirschsprung’s disease, a rare congenital condition with only 21 known cases in identical twins, that negatively impacts the colon. Thanks to the team at Nicklaus Children’s Hospital’s Colorectal Center, the twins underwent life-changing surgery.
December 17, 2024 – Natalie was diagnosed with early onset scoliosis at 19 months and underwent years of treatment, including casting, bracing, and three surgeries, under the care of Dr. Stephen G. George. At age 12, after her final surgery to correct her spine, she completed her 10-year treatment journey and is ready to move forward.
November 26, 2024 – Born with a rare lung disorder known as congenital pulmonary airway malformation (CPAM), Wyatt required specialized surgical treatment to remove portions of his lung. Thanks to the world-class care at Nicklaus Children’s Hospital, Wyatt, who recently celebrated his first birthday, continues to meet developmental milestones.
November 05, 2024 – Joffre Emmanuel, born with Down syndrome and later diagnosed with acute lymphocytic leukemia, has defied the odds since birth. After unsuccessful treatment in Ecuador, he received lifesaving immunotherapy and CAR T-cell therapy at Nicklaus Children's Hospital, leading to significant improvements and is back to enjoying his childhood.