A message from our CEO
Dear friends,
At Jackson Health Foundation, we often talk about the power of philanthropy. But its true impact is found in the moments it creates — a child finding joy during a difficult hospital stay, a patient receiving lifesaving care or a family finding hope when they need it most.
Those moments are possible because of you.
Across Jackson Health System, your generosity continues to help advance exceptional care and create meaningful experiences for patients and families. We are proud to see that commitment reflected in the Christine E. Lynn Rehabilitation Center, which was ranked No. 1 among the nation’s best rehabilitation hospitals by U.S. News & World Report.
The transformation of emergency care at Jackson Memorial Hospital is also moving forward. With the first phase of the emergency room complete, upcoming phases will bring additional services and enhancements to further strengthen care for our community.
And as we look to the future, we’re engaging a new generation of philanthropists through the Young Impact Collective, bringing together emerging leaders under 40 who are passionate about making a difference in Miami-Dade County.
There is much to look forward to, including the 27th Annual Guardian Angels Luncheon and Fashion Show on October 30 and the Holiday of Miracles Toy Drive and Boat Parade on December 5.
Thank you for believing in Jackson and for being part of a community that continues to make a difference for patients and families across South Florida.
Together, we are making miracles happen.
With gratitude,
Flavia Llizo
Chief Executive Officer, Jackson Health Foundation
Welcoming David Zambrana
Welcoming David ZambranaCEO of Jackson Health System
At Jackson, some stories come full circle. That is certainly true for David Zambrana, who recently became Chief Executive Officer of Jackson Health System. More than 35 years ago, David began his career at Jackson Memorial Hospital as a nurse, caring for patients at the bedside. Today, he returns to that same mission in a new role, leading one of the nation’s largest public health systems.
Before becoming CEO, David served as Jackson’s President and Chief Operating Officer, working alongside Carlos A. Migoya to help guide the health system’s remarkable growth and transformation.
David brings something uniquely valuable: a lifelong understanding of Jackson’s people, patients and purpose. His journey reflects the values shared by so many of our donors — dedication, resilience and the belief that every member of our community deserves access to world-class care.
Please join us in welcoming David as Jackson begins its next chapter. With the continued partnership of our donors and community, that future is filled with possibility.
A New Chapter in Maternal Care
A New Chapter in Maternal CareThe Karlie Kloss Center for Maternal Health Opens at Jackson
On August 18, Jackson Memorial celebrated the opening of the Karlie Kloss Center for Maternal Health at The Women’s Hospital, a milestone made possible by a $2.5 million gift from the Joshua Kushner and Karlie Kloss Foundation.
For Karlie and her family, the gift carries personal significance. All three of their children were born at Jackson, and the donation reflects her desire to give back to the team that cared for their family during those milestone moments.
To celebrate this expression of generosity, Karlie and her family joined us in opening this maternity emergency room, a modern space featuring a welcoming environment designed to enhance the experience of pregnant patients requiring emergency obstetrical care. It features updated patient rooms, enhanced clinical space, and an improved clinical environment built to support timely, specialized care for patients experiencing pregnancy-related emergencies.
We’re deeply grateful to Karlie, Josh and their family for their generosity and their investment in the future of maternal health across South Florida.
Building the Next Generation of Philanthropy
Building the Next Generation of PhilanthropyYoung Impact Collective
Jackson Health Foundation’s Young Impact Collective brings together emerging leaders under 45 who want to connect with their peers while creating meaningful change across Miami-Dade County.
Through networking, service and philanthropic opportunities, members are helping build a community of young professionals who understand that improving health care is something we all have a role in.
Whether you’re looking to expand your network, give back or help shape the future of health care philanthropy, there’s a place for you at Young Impact Collective.
Discover how you can get involved.
Click here to learn more or contact Gradon Hadaway, senior director of development, at Gradon.Hadaway@jhsmiami.org or 305-585-GIVE.
From Storytelling to Service
From Storytelling to ServiceVeronica Puig Brings Kindness to Young Readers and Holtz Children’s Patients
Teen author, songwriter, and founder of Veca’s Hope Children’s Foundation, Veronica Puig shares a message of kindness, compassion, and resilience through her debut children’s book, Treehouse Rescue.
Inspired by her experiences supporting children with pediatric cancer and their families, Veronica followed a young boy named Mike as he becomes engrossed in a story of animals seeking shelter from an approaching storm. Through themes of generosity, empathy, and putting others first, the story encourages young readers to recognize the impact even small acts of kindness can have.
Puig’s commitment to uplifting children extends beyond the pages of her book. On Valentine’s Day, she joined fellow Little Guardian Angel Cecilia Florin Veiga and their families in surprising pediatric patients at Holtz Children’s Hospital with 100 teddy bears and colorful tote bags.
Through both her storytelling and community service, Puig continues to remind children and families that even the smallest acts of kindness can make a powerful difference.
Two Transplants. One Lifesaving Mission
Two Transplants. One Lifesaving MissionMiami Transplant Institute
Emilio and Mauricio Barbosa Martinez both live with Alport syndrome, a genetic disease that can silently destroy kidney function over time. After Hurricane Maria brought their family from Puerto Rico to Miami, their care journey quickly became urgent, and ultimately life-saving.
Mauricio was first. He needed immediate dialysis and a kidney transplant. A living donor made that second chance possible, and the Miami Transplant Institute became a strong support system.
Years later, Mauricio followed the same path. Balancing school in Puerto Rico and treatment in Miami, he received his transplant in 2025 through the generosity of a living donor. His now continuing his education at Nova Southeastern University, closer to his care team and his future.
Across both journeys, the pediatric kidney transplant team at the Miami Transplant Institute provided steady support, care, and expertise. Puig continues to remind children and families that even the smallest acts of kindness can make a powerful difference.
(Note: the story text overlaps/repeats near the end in the original layout, so the final lines echo the previous section.)
Upcoming Events
Upcoming EventsThis October, Jackson Health Foundation’s Guardian Angels will host our 27th Annual Guardian Angels Luncheon and Fashion Show, the event will feature a Saks Fifth Avenue fashion show, exciting raffle opportunities, and stories that highlight the impact of philanthropy on the lives of families across South Florida. Save the date and join us as we celebrate compassion, community, and the extraordinary care provided at Holtz Children’s.
Purchase your tickets or reserve an entire table today.
Kick off the holiday season with Jackson Health Foundation’s Holiday of Miracles, a festive waterfront celebration benefiting patients at Holtz Children’s Hospital. Beginning at sunset on Saturday, December 5, beautifully decorated boats will cruise through Biscayne Bay, and passersby stopping to admire will enjoy live music, food trucks, and family-friendly activities.
Help make the holidays even brighter by donating new, unwrapped toys — proceeds also benefit Holtz Children’s Hospital. This year’s efforts are as important as ever, with an anticipated increase in the number of families in our community facing financial hardship this holiday season.