Children undergoing cancer treatment at Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital were celebrated with a parade of gold-decorated vehicles, first responders and community supporters during the hospital’s fourth annual Go Gold Parade, held in recognition of National Pediatric Cancer Awareness Month. The gold ribbon is recognized worldwide as a symbol of pediatric cancer awareness and is used throughout September to show support for children and families affected by the disease.
Presented by the Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital Foundation and the Anthony Rizzo Family Foundation, the annual event brings joy and encouragement to children and families facing cancer while raising awareness of the challenges that can accompany a pediatric cancer diagnosis.
The Anthony Rizzo Family Foundation was founded by three-time MLB All-Star and cancer survivor Anthony Rizzo, who was diagnos-ed with Hodgkin lymphoma at age 18. His own experience under-going cancer treatment inspired his mission to support children and families navigating the disease.
“The Go Gold Parade is a heart-felt reminder to our patients and families that they are surrounded by a community that cares deeply about them,” said Kelley Morris, president of the Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital and Memorial Foundations. “For children facing treatment, moments of joy and the chance to simply be a kid are so meaningful and an important part of healing. We are incredibly grateful to the Anthony Rizzo Family Foundation and everyone who helps make this special experience possible each year.”
Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital is one of the nation’s leading pediatric hospitals, offering a comprehensive scope of healthcare services and programs in a caring, compassionate setting designed specifically for children. The level one pediatric trauma center combines advanced technology, the expertise of some of the region’s most diverse, board-certified specialists, and a patient and family-centered focus to heal the body, mind, and spirit. Part of Memorial Healthcare System, the pediatric hospital in Hollywood, Florida, recently doubled in size, adding four floors, including a comprehensive cardiac care floor, an intraoperative MRI, an inpatient rehabilitation gym, family and staff support areas, and the 14th Garth Brooks Teammates for Kids Child Life Zone, among other offerings.
The hospital’s nonprofit foundation focuses on philanthropy to positively impact patients, families, and underwrite programs, facilities, and equipment that support the pediatric facility’s mission.