Meet Salma

Salma Richani, now 7, is a pediatric cancer survivor that conquered thousands of hearts and continues to be an example of hope.

After vacationing in Miami from Venezuela in 2014, she was diagnosed with neuroblastoma, a rare form of cancer that affects the nervous system. The cancer was advanced and Salma had to undergo multiple surgeries and a 14-month long medical treatment – today she is healthy, cheerful and stronger than ever.

Holtz Children’s Hospital at the University of Miami/Jackson Memorial Medical Center became a new home for the family. Staff quickly fell in love with Salma and her parents found comfort in the care they provided Salma, both medically and emotionally. Salma persevered through difficult months of her treatment, but she never lost her smile or positive spirit. After doctors declared her cancer-free, caregivers, family and friends organized a flash mob to celebrate her courage through dance.

Today, Salma has begun second grade and lives a normal life. She continues to do everything she likes such as singing, dancing, and painting.

“There were many difficult moments and other joyful ones,” said her father Kaled Richani, MD. “But my daughter is a miracle; she is here with us because of the advancements in science and our faith.”