The late Dr. Richard Zakheim, founder of Pediatric Cardiology at Nicklaus Children’s Hospital, was honored at a street dedication ceremony near Nicklaus Children’s Hospital today. Miami-Dade County District 6 Commissioner Rebeca Sosa designated Southwest 60th Court (Tropical Way) from southwest 30th Street to southwest 33rd Street “Dr. Richard Zakheim Way.”
“Dr. Zakheim touched and saved the lives of so many and his impact should never be forgotten,” said Commissioner Rebeca Sosa. “By naming this road we honor his legacy and ensure that he will continue to inspire our community.”
Dr. Zakheim joined Nicklaus Children’s Hospital in 1977 to lead the expansion of the cardiology service and served as its medical director until 2002. It was Dr. Zakheim’s vision that led to the established and world-renowned Nicklaus Children’s Heart Program, which serves patients with both congenital and acquired heart disease. Dr. Zakheim also founded the Adult Congenital Heart Disease Clinic, which provides treatment to patients born with congenital heart defects living through adulthood.
“Dr. Zakheim will forever be an important part of our hospital’s history. We are grateful for Commissioner Sosa for recognizing his commitment to the hundreds of patients he cared for,” said Dr. John Rhodes, Director of Cardiology at Nicklaus Children’s Hospital.