HOLLYWOOD, FL (Boca Post) (Copyright © 2023) — Mystic Force Foundation’s heartfelt parade in Hollywood, FL, joined by law enforcement, honors childhood cancer heroes, raising awareness for a crucial cause.
On Thursday, November 30th, in Hollywood, FL, the Mystic Force Foundation for Childhood Cancer is teamed up with the Broward Sheriff’s Office, law enforcement and fire departments from across South Florida, SuperHeroes, community leaders and families dealing with childhood cancer. They came together to show immense love and support for the courageous young Heroes who are battling the leading cause of death among children in the United States.
The main highlight of this event was a beautiful showcase of vehicles adorned with gold ribbons. The vehicles represented more than 18 Law Enforcement Agencies from the tri-county region as well as Fire Rescue Emergency vehicles and SuperHeroes. Together, they participated in a heartwarming procession to bring joy to our youngest Heroes who are hospitalized during the holiday season.
With lights flashing and sirens blaring, this unprecedented display of hope, love and unity passed by Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital and Salah Foundation Children’s Hospital located in Ft. Lauderdale. The children there eagerly watched and waved at all the participants. The Parade concluded at the Backyard where a heartfelt luncheon of gratitude took place.
This collaboration was not about having a parade; it was a powerful demonstration of solidarity that serves as a reminder that when we come together as a community, we can truly make a difference in the lives of those facing Childhood Cancer.
It served as a powerful reminder to the children and families who are fighting this devastating disease that they have a strong support system standing beside them. The event was especially meaningful as it pays tribute to all the courageous children battling cancer and honors the memory of five beloved young souls. These young individuals will forever be remembered by our police departments:
- Jeremiah Valera: A forever-7-year-old junior officer in the North Miami Police Department.
- Kayson: forever-8-year-old captain in the North Miami Police Department.
- Cali Franklin; A forever-7-year-old junior chief in the North Miami Beach Police Department, also serving as a junior deputy in the Palm Beach Sheriff’s Office.
- Jacob Schwartz; A forever-7-year-old from the Biscayne Park Police Department.
- Gabriella Rivera; A forever-7-year-old from the Miami Dade Police Department.
About Mystic Force Foundation
The Mystic Force Foundation was established in 2008 by Dr. Steven and Silvia Vanni, following the diagnosis of their four year old son, Salvatore, with Stage IV Neuroblastoma Cancer. Although Salvatore lost his fight against cancer in 2011, his legacy lives on through the foundation’s efforts to improve the lives of children facing this devastating illness. This year marks the foundation’s one year anniversary of raising awareness and crucial funds for Childhood Cancer Research, as well as advocating for change in Washington, DC.
Additionally, they have been granting wishes organizing hospital parties and bringing hope, joy, happiness and smiles to brave young heroes battling childhood cancer. To commemorate this milestone even further, they are celebrating the fifth anniversary of The Heroes Hangout. A dedicated haven for children fighting cancer located in North Miami Beach. The Heroes Hangout serves children from hospitals across South Florida and is offered free of charge to families affected by cancer thanks to community support.
Throughout the year, Mystic Force Foundation collaborates with local law enforcement agencies at various events and special occasions to bring joy and happiness to kids facing cancer.
From parades, to going on rides in police cars, to fulfilling special “Wishes,” and celebrating the end of chemotherapy, officers demonstrate love, kindness and support to children battling cancer and their families. These police departments partner with the Foundation to reassure families that they are never alone in their fight.
This year marks the 4th Annual Mystic Force & Broward Sheriff’s Office Parade of Hope.
About Childhood Cancer
Childhood Cancer remains the leading cause of disease related deaths among children in the United States. The incidence of Childhood Cancer is increasing, with recent statistics from the American Cancer Society revealing that approximately 1 in every 260 children in the US will receive a cancer diagnosis before reaching age 20. While there is an almost 90% cure rate for the most common Childhood Cancer, Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL), survival rates for other forms remain discouraging. Some types have no known cures upon relapse, while others are terminal upon initial diagnosis.
Survivors often face lifelong health issues and have a heightened risk of developing secondary cancers.
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