“Unfortunately, sometimes when a child goes through extensive cancer treatments, there are negative side effects like memory loss or even blindness, depending on the treatment,” said Commissioner Diaz. “It’s difficult for these children to then complete their schoolwork without some kind of assistance. The Second Chance Program will help children work around these issues so that they can continue to lead happy and productive lives.”

The program was infused with $75,000 from the Kids & Families Foundation.

As founder, Commissioner Diaz continues to support the Kids & Families’ yearly activities geared towards helping children with chronic illnesses. Most notably, Commissioner Diaz plays Santa Claus every year and distributes toys to pediatric cancer patients at Jackson Memorial Hospital during the Christmas holiday.

 
Miami-Dade County Vice-Chairman Jose “Pepe” Diaz (second from left) listens to Dean J. Pascal Goldschmidt, MD, Senior Vice President for Medical Affairs for the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine discuss the Second Chance Program.