The courage to face cancer and bounce back even stronger.
Our Stories
Udonis Haslem's Story
Cancer has affected Miami Heat legend Udonis Haslem on a personal level. As the Bounce Back from Cancer™ ambassador, he wants to lead the fight for a world without cancer.
Courtney's Story
After a diagnosis of a rare vaginal cancer, Courtney had a fertility-sparing uterine disposition surgery — the first one performed at Baptist Health Herbert Wertheim Cancer Institute. Now cancer free, Courtney walks 14 miles with her physician Dr. John Diaz every year.
Eddie's Story
As an employee on the facility operations team, Eddie walks the halls of Baptist Health Herbert Wertheim Cancer Institute, making sure things are running smoothly. His unexpected cancer diagnosis led him to experience firsthand the care he helps support every day.
Doug's Story
After Doug was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, he relied heavily on his support system and his positive attitude. He’s eternally grateful to Baptist Health Herbert Wertheim Cancer Institute and Dr. Michael Choung for allowing him to continue enjoying his family and active lifestyle.
Efrain & Gladys' Story
With 30+ locations across South Florida, Pinecrest Bakery is a popular fixture in the community. Their Bounce Back support is personal. As a cancer survivor, owner Efrain shows up year after year, supporting the event with his family and staff.
Carolina's Story
After a difficult journey with primary mediastinal B-cell lymphoma, Carolina crossed the finish line at Bounce Back from Cancer™ in remission and with the unwavering support of her family and friends.
Peter's Story
Thanks to a clinical trial that gave him the hope of beating Stage 4 lung cancer, Peter walks the 14.2 miles at Bounce Back from Cancer™ every year and encourages others to join him.
Cristy’s Story
With her son Javi's support and Dr. Kotecha's expertise, Cristy beat non-small cell lung cancer thanks to a radiation therapy clinical trial.
Dr. Ahluwalia’s Story
Inspired by his grandmother, Dr. Ahluwalia works on new treatments like immunotherapy that helped Peter beat Stage 4 lung cancer.
Stephanie’s Story
At 28, Stephanie was diagnosed with breast cancer that spread to her liver. But thanks to proton therapy, her future is bright.
Richard’s Story
A cycling accident led to a surprise discovery of lung cancer for Richard, who considers himself lucky to have had an astute medical team.
Maddie’s Story
Maddie was just four when her family learned she had a rare form of leukemia. Thanks to Dr. Daghistani's care, she's now cancer-free.
We bring awareness, we raise funds and we change the way cancer care is delivered here in South Florida.”
-John Diaz, M.D.
Chief of Gynecologic Oncology, Baptist Health
Director of robotic surgery and lead physician for clinical trials in gynecologic oncology, Baptist Health Herbert Wertheim Cancer Institute
Chair and associate professor of the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, FIU Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine
Without research, I wouldn’t have the chance I have today. That’s why I show up for Bounce Back from Cancer.”
-Courtney De Stefano
Patient, Baptist Health Herbert Wertheim Cancer Institute