Celebrating 25 Years of Joy and Hope
Pre-Med Society’s Annual Holiday Party for Pediatric Cancer Patients

For a quarter of a century, the American Heritage Schools’ Pre-Medical Program has demonstrated the power of compassion and community through its annual service project to benefit pediatric cancer patients at the Salah Foundation Children’s Hospital at Broward Health Medical Center. This year, the Pre-Med Society marked an extraordinary milestone: 25 years of spreading joy and hope to young patients and their families.
The initiative comprises three key events: a Superhero Party, the Pre-Med Gala, and the Holiday Party. Together, these events create a meaningful and impactful journey of care and celebration for the children battling cancer.

Superhero Party: A Celebration of Strength
The festivities began with the cherished Superhero Party, where pediatric cancer patients embraced their inner heroes. This tradition has brought joy to children for 25 years, allowing them to craft their “letters to Santa” while engaging in playful and uplifting activities. Over the program’s history, the Pre-Med Society has raised and donated over $1 million to support these young warriors, helping fund critical improvements at Broward Health Medical Center.

The Gala: A Night of Elegance and Generosity
The 7th Annual Pre-Med Gala raised an incredible $41,000 through donations and silent auctions. This black-tie affair brought together parents, students, and community leaders for an evening of dining, dancing, and fundraising. This year’s gala set a record, emphasizing the program’s unwavering commitment to providing for pediatric cancer patients.

25th Annual Holiday Party: A Heartwarming Tradition
The culmination of the year’s efforts was the 25th Annual Holiday Party, a day filled with joy and laughter for 17 pediatric cancer patients and their families. To ensure all families can attend, the Pre-Med Society, under the guidance of Dr. Carlos Pulido, also provides transportation options such as Uber and taxis.
This year, the students went above and beyond, spending $500 per child on gifts, with a total of over 160 presents carefully chosen for the children. The event featured engaging activities, including gingerbread cookie decorating, ornament making, bracelet crafting, games, and festive treats like pizza, shaved ice, cupcakes, and drinks.

Adding to the excitement were special guests, including cheerleaders from the Florida Panthers, Stanley the Panther, Victory the Rat, and the team’s sub-director of marketing. The hospital’s staff, including the COO, Chief of Nursing, Chief of Physician Affairs, and Chief of Hematology and Oncology, joined the celebration.
The highlight of the party was a stunning acapella performance by the AHS choir, with Pre-Med Society student Noah Duro Andre delivering a breathtaking solo of “Oh Holy Night.”

25 Years of Impact
The dedication of the Pre-Med Society and its students has touched the lives of countless families, with over 500 AHS students participating in the program’s 25-year history. This year’s celebration was not only a testament to their commitment but also a reminder of the transformative power of kindness.
As the Pre-Med Society concludes this monumental year, their efforts stand as a shining example of how collective goodwill can bring light to even the darkest days, offering hope and happiness to those who need it most.