Nicklaus Children’s Hospital today announced a $5 million gift from VoLo Foundation – a private family foundation - to support advancements in pediatric surgical care and treatment. In recognition of this generous gift, made possible by VoLo Foundation co-founders David S. Vogel and Thais Lopez Vogel, the hospital will soon designate a “VoLo Foundation Cardiac and Neurology Floor” on the Nicklaus Children’s main campus.

“We are honored to be able to give back to the hospital that helped save our son’s life over 20 years ago,” said David and Thais Vogel. “It is because of the amazing cardiac surgery team at Nicklaus Children’s that our son, Mitch, is here today and living a full, happy, healthy life. With this donation, we want to show our appreciation and do what we can to help impact more precious lives.”

The $5 million gift will build upon Nicklaus Children’s 70-year legacy of pediatric clinical excellence, with support for important advancements in state-of-the-art medical technologies and innovations, medical education and expansions in surgical operating suites that will each help to enhance patient care for generations to come. 

“Nicklaus Children’s is grateful to VoLo Foundation and the Vogel family for their generous gift that will help advance all aspects of surgical care, while fueling innovation and our vision in creating healthy futures for every child,” said Matthew A. Love, president and CEO of Nicklaus Children’s Health System. “This charitable support will go a long way in providing hope and healing for thousands of children and families who rely on us during a time of need.”

At South Florida’s only freestanding pediatric hospital, Nicklaus Children’s surgeons perform more than 16,000 surgeries a year, treating some of the most complex and rare pediatric cases. Across all subspecialties, Nicklaus Children’s treats nearly a quarter of a million patients a year.

To learn more about supporting Nicklaus Children’s Hospital, please visit https://give.nicklauschildrens.org.