Diamond Ball

$2.5 Million Raised for the Future of Pediatric Care

On Saturday, October 28, hundreds of philanthropists and community leaders across South Florida gathered to celebrate the most anticipated gala of the season – the 2023 Diamond Ball – at Loews Miami Beach. The glittering event, benefiting Nicklaus Children’s Hospital and presented by Mario Murgado and Murgado Automotive Group raised $2.5 million and counting for Nicklaus Children’s Hospital. Cancer survivor siblings Kaylee, Keanu and Kassem Rodriguez took to the stage with their mom Ketty to share how Nicklaus Children’s saved their lives. Their story is a testament to the high-quality care the hospital provides, and the remarkable impact that donations can make on patient lives. 

Browse the Facebook Photo Album

Relive the magic! See the stunning photographs from this year's Diamond Ball gala now online. Special thanks to those who attended and donated in support of children in South Florida and around the world.
 

Meet Kaylee and Family

A truly remarkable example of not just a brave patient, but three members of the same family overcoming cancer. Kaylee was diagnosed with Ewing Sarcoma, a rare type of cancer that occurs in the bones or soft tissue around the bones. This news ended her college softball career, and she is being treated by Dr. Guillermo De Angulo at Nicklaus Children’s Cancer and Blood Disorders Institute. While undergoing treatment, her two brothers also fought their own medical battles. 

Missed out on Diamond Ball this year?

Introducing the 2023 Hall of Fame Inductees Bibiana and Mario Murgado

At the 2023 Diamond Ball gala, we will pay tribute to Bibi and Mario Murgado, our 2023 inductees into the Ambassador David M. Walters International Pediatric Hall of Fame. This is the highest honor given by Nicklaus Children's to recognize remarkable supporters of the hospital. Bibi and Mario Murgado are exceptional supporters of Nicklaus Children's work to care for children in South Florida and around the world.

Learn more about the Hall of Fame.

Meet our 2023 Diamond Ball Masters of Ceremonies

Kristi Krueger a three-time Emmy award-winning medical reporter and news anchor for Local 10 News who delivers vital health information to help viewers make informed decisions about their health. She's dedicated to serving her community as a board member of the Susan B. Anthony Recovery Center and Chair of the Pembroke Pines Relay for Life for the American Cancer Society.

Jason Alpert a former television sports reporter and voice of NASCAR at Homestead-Miami Speedway, has been named Best Charity Auctioneer by Tampa Bay Magazine five years running and puts on a show like no one else.

Vallye Adams a #1 best-selling author of "Yes I Can! 16 Success Secrets from Inspiring Women Around the World" was named the 2023 national female non-profit consultant and auctioneer of the year by Acquisition International Magazine. As part of Alpert Enterprises’ team of live auctioneers, Adams and Alpert have both helped charities raise more than $300 million. 

Meet the 2023 Diamond Ball Co-Chairs: Ellen and Oscar Feldenkreis

Nicklaus Children's Hospital Foundation is proud to present the 2023 Co-Chairs, Ellen and Oscar Feldenkreis! They are longtime supporters of Nicklaus Children's Hospital and strong community advocates who are working alongside the hospital to create a healthy future for every child.

We are grateful for their service and participation in the hospital's signature annual fundraiser - and know it will be the best one yet under their leadership!
 

2023 Diamond Ball Committee

Thank you to the 2023 Diamond Ball Committee who have volunteered to serve to help make the next gala a successful one! Members include:

Jose and Heide Dans
Michael Fux and Gloria Rubin
Salo and Olga Grosfeld
Garrett and Patricia Hayim
Alex and Juliana Krys
Paul Lowenthal
JC and Vivian Mas
Kenneth and Rachel Schultz