In a sun-dappled ceremony on Key Biscayne, Miami-Dade County officials announced the renaming of a section of Hobie Beach to honor a local non-profit's longstanding fight against cancer. Now known as Castaways Against Cancer Beach, the site serves as the launch point for the group's annual fundraising journey—a kayaking trip to Key West. "Cancer does not discriminate; most of us know someone who has been affected by this disease," Mayor Daniella Levine Cava said, praising the initiative to recognize the contributions of those battling cancer, according to the Miami-Dade press release.
The move, backed unanimously by the Miami-Dade County Board of County Commissioners, casts light on the Castaways Against Cancer's 25-year commitment to supporting cancer research, awareness, and survivors. On the morning of June 8, participants set sail from their newly dedicated beach adorned with a banner inscribed with over 2,000 names of cancer patients, marking another year of their touchstone fundraising event which, this year included runners departing June 12 and cyclists on June 14 all aiming to reconvene in Key West. "This is one of the most exciting things that’s ever happened to us," Eric Pino, Captain of the Castaways, told Miami-Dade County in a statement filled with gratitude and renewed resolve.
The park's rebranding is more than a symbolic gesture; it's an acknowledgment of the power places have to unite and heal communities. Miami-Dade Parks Director Maria I. Nardi lauded the effort, highlighting parks as spaces of resilience, strength, and healing. Castaways Against Cancer, driven by an all-volunteer cadre, has become a robust movement since its origin in 2000, with numerous volunteers who have managed to raise over $2.3 million in their fight against this pervasive illness.
