After decades spent serving in some of New York City’s most fearsome precincts, retired NYPD Sgt. Damian Muniz is not normally prone to tears.
But his eyes welled and his lip quivered Friday night as he accepted a check for $13,200 — a gift from a community rallying behind his 13-year-old daughter, Mila, who is battling an aggressive and inoperable brain tumor.
More than 120 guests gathered at Private 131 in Jacksonville Beach for the emotional fundraiser. Many wiped away tears as event organizer Elizabeth Meyers handed over the donation and embraced Mila’s mother, Gracie.
“We are so thankful,” Gracie told the hushed room as several of her family members looked on. “We really appreciate all the love and support you have shown us and Mila. This is not easy, but our community has helped us so much.”
One Night, One Cause
The fundraiser doubled as the kickoff event for North Florida Influencers, a new philanthropic network led by Meyers, a successful entrepreneur who lives in Nocatee. She launched the group — soon to be renamed The Altruist Society — to help families in crisis and brought together dozens of local businesses that donated raffle prizes, services and support.
Generous gift baskets for the raffle came from donors across the county, including Pauline Le of Le Dental Spa, Randy Bagary of Dental Care on Longleaf, Troy and Elizabeth Kelly of RBM Plumbing Systems, Leah Rae Yawn of Skin by Leah and Brad Peterson of The Juju Swing.
“We can do so much for our community,” Meyers told The Citizen. “When we come together at events like this, anything is possible. Philanthropy doesn’t have to be hard. We can all do our part — one person at a time, one cause at a time.”
The Muniz family moved to Florida from new York City in 2018 seeking a quieter life for their only child. Mila quickly found her place — especially on the cheerleading squad at Palm Valley Academy.
But earlier this year, after subtle symptoms at practice, doctors discovered a tumor lodged deep in the center of her brain.
Every Memory Matters
Since her diagnosis, the Munizes have traveled the country seeking treatments, living out of hotel rooms while juggling scans, procedures and emotional turmoil.
Through it all, her cheer team named her captain — a title she carries proudly, even if she can’t always stand on the sidelines anymore.
“We are trying every single day,” Gracie told The Citizen at the fundraiser. “We love Mila dearly, and we will do everything we can to be there for her no matter what.”
The family says they’re prioritizing joy and connection, traveling when they can and cherishing every smile and laugh their adventures bring.
They are holding onto hope — and thanks to their community, never walking alone.
