At the 18th Annual Diamond Ball, held on Saturday, October 18, Nicklaus Children’s honored Katy Puig, a patient whose life was saved three years ago following a tragic accident. The gala raised more than $7 million to support Nicklaus Children’s mission to inspire hope and promote lifelong health by providing the best care to every child. 

“Katy’s story is a beautiful reminder of why we come to work each day,” said Matthew A. Love, president and CEO of Nicklaus Children’s Health System. “For 75 years, our mission has remained steadfast: to provide the very best care to every child who comes through our doors. We are deeply grateful to our community for standing beside us in this journey. The incredible generosity shown at Diamond Ball fuels innovation, inspires hope, and ensures that together, we continue building brighter futures for the children we serve.” 

Following a devastating boating accident that caused a traumatic brain injury, Katy received lifesaving care at Nicklaus Children’s Miguel "Mike" B. Fernandez Trauma Center. Through the dedicated support of Nicklaus Children’s medical staff, physical therapy, speech therapy, and the compassion of the Miami community, Katy has become #KatyStrong – a living testament to the transformative power of Nicklaus Children's care. 



Under the theme, Moving Forward – A Night for the Generations of Tomorrow, this year’s Diamond Ball brought together South Florida business leaders, philanthropists, and community members to raise funds to support the Hospital's mission and vision for the future of pediatric healthcare. Among these guests were Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava and Agueda López, philanthropist, author, and model. 

“We are tremendously grateful for the outpouring of support Nicklaus Children's received at this year's record-breaking Diamond Ball," said Allison W. Baker, President of Nicklaus Children's Hospital Foundation. "Our community's investment in the health of children makes stories of hope like Katy's possible, and we are so grateful to everyone who showed up for children in our community – and to our generous sponsors who made this night possible.” 

Each year, Nicklaus Children’s Diamond Ball unites hundreds of supporters to fundraise in support of Nicklaus Children’s patients and families. Sponsors of the 18th Annual Diamond Ball include Ensemble, Citadel, Citadel Securities, Griffin Catalyst, Warner Bros. Discovery US Hispanic, Braman Miami, City National Bank of Florida, Greenberg Traurig, Intermedia Touch, JW Marriot Marquis Miami, ab+a Advertising, Baptist Health, CVS Pharmacy y Más, Navarro Discount Pharmacy, EdgeUno, Inc., FIU Foundation, FIU Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine, KIDZ Medical Services, Pediatrix Medical Group, Perry Ellis International, Perfect Link, Polsinelli, and Stearns Weaver Miller.