Miggy's Gift

Much of this week’s focus was rightfully on the Village budget.  But tucked into the council agenda, a very special item moved quietly forward – one that speaks to Pinecrest’s heart.  It is the story of Miggy’s Gift, a nonprofit founded right here in our Village.  A story of a Pinecrest family turning loss into a legacy.

The Chavez Family moved to Pinecrest before we incorporated and raised their three children here. Their middle son, Steven (“Miggy”) was only 27 when he discovered a mole on his back.  It was melanoma. Two years later, at 29, Steven passed away.

Four months after Steven passed, his parents – Marilu and Herman Chavez -- turned grief into action. They founded Miggy’s Gift, committing themselves to raise awareness on sun safety, and the critical importance of screening and early detection. And Miggy’s Gift also provides scholarships to Miami Dade College students studying video and game design – Steven’s passion. “Miggy” was Steven’s game name.

On Sunday, November 9, at Evelyn Greer Park at 9 a.m., the Village is partnering with Miggy’s Gift to host a free, public event focused on melanoma prevention, skin checks, and the importance of protecting yourself and your children from harmful sun exposure.  The event will feature a color guard presentation at 9 a.m., educational presentations, resources for families, and a silent auction to help fund scholarships and direct support for families affected by skin cancer.  The event will include a walk through the Park for the Cause.

This collaboration reflects the very best of Pinecrest – neighbors coming together to help turn loss into hope; our Community acting to protect and educate one another.

Please mark your calendars for November 9.  Together, let’s honor Steven’s legacy and spread the word on the life-saving message of Miggy’s Gift.

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Committed to our Community,