News, Stories, Blogs and Media from Nicklaus Children's

Emma's Hidden Scar and Remarkable Heart: One of Florida's First Right Vertical Mini-Axillary Open-Heart Surgeries

07/30/2026 – After being diagnosed at birth with an atrial septal defect, Emma was expertly cared for by the Nicklaus Children’s Hospital Heart Institute. At just 8 years old, Emma underwent one of Florida’s first right vertical mini-axillary open-heart surgeries performed by Dr. David Kalfa, allowing her to recover quickly and return to enjoying life with her family.

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Things I Wish I Knew Before Becoming a Parent

05/06/2025 – Becoming a parent is one of life’s greatest adventures, but it comes with surprises that no one can truly prepare you for. Joining us to share her unique perspective is Dr. Melanie Suaris, a pediatrician at Nicklaus Children’s who sees patients at our primary pediatric care locations in Cutler Bay and at Nicklaus Children’s at Galloway. Listen to this Podcast

Building Physical Activity Into Your Family’s Routine

09/01/2026 by Food for Salud – Healthy habits are easier to build when the whole family participates. This month, challenge your family to spend time moving together! Whether it's a walk around the neighborhood or a trip to your favorite park every step builds lifelong healthy habits and even small changes make a difference!

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Nicklaus Children’s Taps Market President to Serve as Health System Chief Operating Officer, Chief Clinical Officer Appointed to Chief Physician Executive

07/28/2026 – Nicklaus Children’s Health System has appointed Yair Katz as senior vice president and chief operating officer and Dr. Marcos Mestre as senior vice president, chief physician executive and chief clinical officer to strengthen operational and clinical alignment as it expands across South Florida. These appointments improve coordination across the growing pediatric network, support continued growth, and help deliver high-quality specialty care to more children and families throughout the region.

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New Florida Heart Law Highlights the Importance of EKG Screenings for Student-Athletes

07/09/2026 – Starting with the 2026-2027 school year, Florida’s Second Chance Act will require many high school student-athletes to complete a one-time electrocardiogram, or EKG, before participating in sports governed by the Florida High School Athletic Association (FHSAA). The new requirement is intended to help detect hidden heart conditions that may increase a young athlete’s risk for sudden cardiac arrest.

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What is an Intestinal Ultrasound (IUS)?

8/10/2026 –

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Cyclospora in Kids: What Parents Should Know

August 04, 2026 – National news reports of a surge in Cyclospora infections have left many parents thinking twice about loading up a shopping cart with produce out of fear they’ll bring the diarrhea-causing parasite home to their families on fresh lettuce or fruit. As the situation evolves, parents should be on the lookout for symptoms of cyclosporiasis (Cyclospora infection), throw away any potentially contaminated produce, and handle all other fresh fruit and vegetables properly before eating.