Pinecrest nonprofit Miggy's Gift will bring free skin cancer screenings and a western-themed family walk to Evelyn Greer Park on Nov. 15.

The eighth annual Melanoma Walk, titled "Saddle Up for Melanoma," starts at 9 a.m. at the park, 8200 SW 124th St. Gates open at 8 a.m. for check-in. The event is organized in partnership with Baptist Health Herbert Wertheim Cancer Institute and the Pinecrest Parks and Recreation Department, according to Community Newspapers.

Health care professionals from Baptist Health and the Children's Skin Center at Nicklaus Children's Hospital will offer free skin checks on-site. Participants will receive event bags with a western neck scarf, sunscreen, sunglasses, lip balm and sun safety literature. Children will also receive surprise goodies during the walk.

A son's diagnosis became a family's mission

Marilu and Herman Chavez, both Pinecrest residents, founded Miggy's Gift after their son, Stephen "Miggy" Chavez, died of metastatic melanoma in November 2017 at age 29. Stephen was diagnosed after discovering a mole on his back. The cancer was surgically removed, but it returned as stage 4 melanoma, and he died 106 days after that diagnosis.

"We were going to educate other families, so they don't have to live this nightmare," Marilu Chavez told Community Newspapers on Oct. 23, 2025, ahead of the organization's seventh annual walk.

While undergoing treatment, Stephen began designing a superhero-inspired hospital gown for children battling cancer. That idea became the foundation of Miggy's Gift, which now runs financial assistance programs for families, educational outreach and college scholarships through Miami Dade College.

Pony rides, raffles and a petting zoo

This year's walk features music, food, raffle prizes, a silent auction, a photo booth, pony rides, a farm animal petting zoo and a surprise performance. Attendees who show up in western attire will receive three free raffle tickets.

The walk is free to attend.

How to register or donate

Registration is scheduled to open Oct. 1 on RunSignUp and closes Nov. 14 at 11:59 p.m. Those who cannot attend can make tax-deductible donations at miggysgift.org. For questions, contact Marilu and Herman Chavez at 305-812-1273 or [email protected].