Young cancer survivors took in the concert of a lifetime as Taylor Swift’s “Eras Tour” took over Hard Rock Stadium in Miami.
Several pediatric cancer patients at Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, a part of UHealth – University of Miami Health System, had a chance to “Shake it Off” during Taylor Swift’s recent “Eras Tour” stop in Miami.
Thanks to the generosity of several Dolphins Cancer Challenge (DCC) Foundation board members and other Sylvester supporters, each received a pair of concert tickets to attend one of the year’s most sought-after concerts.
“It was such a special experience,” said Sylvester Director Stephen D. Nimer, M.D., the Universty of Miami Miller School of Medicine executive dean for research who now proudly calls himself a “Swiftie.” “We had cancer survivors there with their moms and one who brought a friend. Everyone enjoyed the show; it was very heart warming. The girls knew every lyric, and you could tell they were having the best time.”
Adam Carlin, who serves on Sylvester’s board of governors and the DCC board, was one of many who were instrumental in making the night possible.
“Cancer can be particularly challenging for younger patients, who are forced to balance their youth with the overwhelming burden of this disease,” said Carlin. “Music has often been described as medicine for the soul. These young patients deserved a carefree night where they could forget about their health issues.”
A Magical Night for a Devoted Swiftie
For 20-year-old Sophia Treadwell, a long-time Swiftie, the evening was nothing short of magical. Dressed in a pink, sequined top and a long, flowing white skirt inspired by Taylor Swift’s “Lover” album, she joined thousands of fans, singing along to every song.
“I am grateful to Sylvester for this experience of a lifetime,” said Sophia. “It’s just another example of how much they truly care about their patients.”
Her mother, Boriana Treadwell, who shared the night with Sophia, expressed her gratitude to Sylvester.
“Thank you from the bottom of my heart for making my child so happy. And thank you for leading a team of world-class doctors, professionals and staff in Sylvester who saved my child’s life when she was diagnosed with AML. We would not be here without Sylvester – and for that, my husband, I and Sophia are eternally in your debt,” Boriana wrote in an email to Dr. Nimer.
Sophia’s cancer journey began in 2019 when she was diagnosed with leukemia after experiencing persistent arm pain. Her oncologist, Julio C. Barredo, M.D., director of children’s cancer programs at Sylvester, reassured her that most pediatric cancer patients go on to lead productive lives.
“I was terrified, but Dr. Barredo gave me the hope I needed,” Sophia recalled.
She received treatment at Sylvester’s Alex’s Place and Holtz Children’s Hospital at the UM/Jackson Memorial Medical Center, fighting bravely through her diagnosis. She completed her schoolwork in an online classroom while also exploring her creativity through music therapy. Sophia performed concerts for other patients, often featuring Taylor Swift songs.
“Everyone became like a second family to me,” said Sophia. “Even though I was going through the hardest time in my life, I knew I was in the best possible hands.”
Today, Sophia is cancer free and a thriving college junior at Boston University.
A Welcome Break from Treatments
Ten-year-old Melia Simon attended the concert with her mom, Claire Marchand. She wore a sparkly pink jacket and Taylor Swift-inspired accessories, including 25 beaded bracelets and glasses with pink lenses that colored everything rosy.
“The concert was really fun,” she said. “It was the single most wonderful day of my life.”
The evening was a great escape for Melia, who will be receiving weekly chemotherapy treatments at Alex’s Place over the next six months. The glioma brain tumor she had has disappeared, but treatments will continue to reduce the chances that it will return. Music has been a constant source of comfort during her treatments, and she typically listens to Taylor Swift when she receives chemo.
“I don’t like chemo, but I really liked seeing Taylor Swift,” said Melia.
As a normal fifth grader, Melia loves talking to her friends, doing arts and crafts projects and spending time with her family and Berry, her miniature dachshund. The last year has been stressful for her and her family. After her first surgery, she had to re-learn certain motor skills, which is sometimes challenging because of tremors in her hands. Despite that, she recounted dancing to her favorite songs at the concert.
With six surgeries behind her and more chemo ahead, Melia’s prognosis is promising. She sees the good in those who have helped her, especially her nurse practitioner, and says she wants to be a nurse someday.
“We are truly grateful for the generosity of our philanthropic partners for making this extraordinary experience possible for our patients,” said Jesse Rodriguez, assistant vice president of medical development at Sylvester. “Their unwavering dedication to our mission amplifies our efforts, creating a collective impact that is both profound and deeply meaningful for those we serve. Together, Sylvester is making a lasting difference in the lives of our patients and communities.”
Tags: pediatric cancer, philanthropy, Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center
