Meet Christina Bukata. Christina recently celebrated her 23rd birthday. She was born with a variety medical complications and congenital heart defects including patent ductus arteriosus (PDA), coarctation of the aorta & eventration of the diaphragm. After a few months of life, she was brought to Nicklaus Children’s Hospital where Dr. Redmond Burke and the Heart Institute provided the care that she would need.

Over the past 22 years, Christina has overcome all of her medical issues and has since graduated from Harriet L. Wilkes Honors College with a Science degree. Christina wanted to pursue a dental career and after being accepted into all three Florida dental schools, she is currently in her 2nd year of school at the University of Florida Dental Program.

Over the years, Christina has raised over $20,000 for the Nicklaus Children's Hospital Foundation which has been given to the Heart Institute as it has a special place in her heart.
 

Congratulations Christina on your many successes!

We thank you for your commitment and dedication to the hospital and the Heart Program.
❤