Daniella Celebrates her Ninth Birthday by Advocating for Children’s Health


Senator Bill Nelson with Daniella and other children healthcare advocates.

Published on: 06/26/2018

Daniella’s story has inspired many on her journey, including the team of doctors and medical professionals that have cared for her along the way. And she continues to share her story to help others.  Daniella celebrated her eleventh birthday by joining 200 other pediatric patients from around the nation at Speak Now For Kids day to advocate for legislation that affect children’s health. Daniella was joined by her parents and two older sisters who met with legislators to share her inspiring story and demonstrate how decisions in Washington impact pediatric patients around the nation.
 
Daniella meeting with Senator Bill Nelson

Among the topics discussed are funding that supports continuing medical education programs physicians and legislation that takes into account the unique needs of pediatric patients, which make up 50 percent of total Medicaid enrollment.
 
Read more about Daniella on the Children’s Hospital Association’s Speak Now for Kids campaign here: http://www.speaknowforkids.org/meet_daniela_2018_family_advocacy_day_champion

Read Previous Read Next

Related News

Ka'lee is Running, Walking and Thriving After Gene Therapy for Muscular Dystrophy

June 19, 2026 – Ka'lee was diagnosed with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD) at just two years old. One of four siblings, he is the only one in his family with this condition. His mother, Carmen, did not expect the diagnosis, and at first, didn't fully understand what it would mean for her son's future. Since his first treatment in 2024 he has achieved milestones that once felt out of reach.

Patient of the Month: Megan

January 26, 2026 – At only seven years old, Megan underwent aggressive cancer treatment that included infusions and chemotherapy and lasted about two years.

Incredible Advances in Cancer Treatment Through Research

September 16, 2025 – In recognition of Pediatric Cancer Awareness Month, this issue of the Research Rundown is dedicated to the incredible advances in cancer treatment through research. The Nicklaus Children's Research Institute (NCRI) with the Helen & Jacob Shaham Cancer & Blood Disorders Institute have more than 30 studies that are actively recruiting new subjects.

Helen & Jacob Shaham Cancer & Blood Disorders Institute at Nicklaus Children's Hospital Recognized for Excellence in Cancer Registration

August 28, 2025 – The Florida Department of Health and the Florida Cancer Data System (FCDS) has awarded the Helen & Jacob Shaham Cancer & Blood Disorders Institute at Nicklaus Children's Hospital the 2024 Jean Byers Memorial Award for Excellence in Cancer Registration. The FCDS recognizes facilities that have met or exceeded the national quality standards for timeliness and completeness in cancer reporting.