Published on: 07/30/2012
Miami Children’s Hospital patient, Maya Carrillo, 2, along with her parents visited Washington D.C. from July 23-24 to take part in the Children’s Hospital Association Family Advocacy Day. Maya and her family shared their personal story along with more than 200 pediatric patients and family members from 18 states across the nation to demonstrate how decisions in Washington impact children’s health.
Maya received lifesaving care at Miami Children’s Hospital in January 2011 when she was diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL). Maya underwent treatment immediately and has been in remission since April 2011.
While serving as an ambassador for children confronting chronic or critical illnesses, Maya and her family had the opportunity to meet with Senators and Congressional Leaders, where they were able to explain how healthcare impacts children.
"It was nice to share this experience with other parents because I think it’s our responsibility to stand up for children,” said Erika Carrillo, Maya’s mother.
About Miami Children’s Hospital
Founded in 1950 by Variety Clubs International, Miami Children's Hospital® is South Florida’s only licensed specialty hospital exclusively for children, with more than 650 attending physicians and over 130 pediatric sub-specialists. The 289-bed hospital is renowned for excellence in all aspects of pediatric medicine with several specialty programs ranked among the best in the nation in 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, and 2012 by U.S. News & World Report. The hospital is also home to the largest pediatric teaching program in the southeastern United States and has been designated an American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) Magnet facility, the nursing profession’s most prestigious institutional honor.