27 • Mobilizing Hope and Funding for Young Cancer Fighters with Nicole De Lara Puente

May 8, 2024

WITH CO-HOSTS: HEREDES RIBEIRO & COLLIN HOKE

H sits down with Nicole de Lara Puente, CEO of Live Like Bella Childhood Cancer Foundation to discuss her visionary leadership in the fight against childhood cancer and the transformative impact they provide to affected families.

Episode Summary.

When Nicole de Lara Puente, CEO of the Live Like Bella Childhood Cancer Foundation, joined our show, she brought more than her story; she brought the enduring spirit of Bella, a young girl whose courage in the face of cancer sparked a global crusade. Nicole's transition from various leadership roles in major media outlets across Europe and Latin America to leading an organization that has raised over $35 million for childhood cancer research is a poignant reminder of the impact one life can have. This episode is a tribute to the unyielding support of communities and the transformative power of storytelling in the quest to provide hope to families grappling with this harrowing diagnosis.

In our heartfelt discussion, we confront the stark realities that children with cancer and their families must endure, emphasizing the necessity for research tailored to their unique needs. The Live Like Bella foundation's efforts have been instrumental in propelling forward clinical trials and research funding in Florida, highlighting a pressing issue: the critical lack of advanced treatment options for our youngest warriors. Nicole's call to action is not just a plea but a rallying cry for us all to join forces in the battle against pediatric cancer.

We also peel back the curtain on the intricacies of nonprofit fundraising, where Nicole sheds light on the importance of diversifying income streams and the profound influence of donor engagement. This episode is an invaluable resource for anyone involved in philanthropy, offering strategic advice on sustaining charitable efforts and the significance of fostering connections beyond the dollars raised. Nicole's unwavering dedication to the cause and her insights on rallying community support make this conversation a masterclass in driving change for a deeply personal mission.

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Chapters.

0:09 - Introduction to Nicole and Live Like Bella
1:43 - Bella's Story, Foundation Origin, Global Impact, and Viral Moments
14:26 - The Challenges of Childhood Cancer Research
25:32 - Nonprofit Revenue Diversification and Engagement
33:49 - Philanthropy, Sustainability, and Research Collaboration
44:55 - Inspiring Pediatric Cancer Research Symposium

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Resources and Info.

If you’d like to recommend or be a guest on the show, email us at podcast@verscreative.com ‍

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About Nicole De Lara Puente.

Nicole de Lara Puente is the CEO of the Live Like Bella® Childhood Cancer Foundation, a leading organization in childhood cancer research and advocacy, providing support across 49 states and 37 countries. Under her leadership, the foundation initiated a pioneering collaboration with the State of Florida, securing over $35 million for childhood cancer research, funding 68 clinical trials and projects across 10 prestigious institutions. Nicole also serves on Florida's Biomedical Research Advisory Council, influencing program priorities and advocacy for childhood cancer.

Prior to her role at Live Like Bella®, Nicole developed significant expertise in non-profit management, healthcare, and global communications. Her career includes key positions at Baptist Health South Florida and partnerships with Memorial Sloan Kettering, as well as leadership roles in major media outlets across Europe and Latin America. Nicole holds a Bachelor of Science in Mass Communication from Florida International University, with additional certification in International Business from Scuola Lorenzo de’ Medici, Italy. In 2023, she was honored as “Businesswoman of the Year” by the Coral Gables Chamber.

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