SUNSERVE CELEBRATES IN TIME OF CHANGE

John Hayden

The start of 2023 has been busy for the team at SunServe. Highlights include their affiliation with AHF, raising more than a half-million dollars and being the top team at Florida AIDS Walk, and beginning a move to their new digs in downtown Fort Lauderdale.

The group took time to celebrate their accomplishments at their facilities on the Sunshine Cathedral campus. The mood in the room was light and festive, in part due to a surprise visit by CEO Tony Lima.

“It’s been quite the adventure,” he said. The adventure he refers to isn’t the organization’s growth, but his own personal recovery.

He had surgery on one of his hips in early May, and had surgery on the other this week. Titanium parts are being inserted into each hip. While he’s been recovering, his staff has carried on.

“They’re incredible. I really have to be thankful to everyone who’s kept everything rolling,” he said.

Lima’s been keeping up with business via phone and internet, but has seen first hand how the group is doing much more than limping along. “It’s been incredible. I start to do things and they’re like ‘oh we just got this done. It’s like they’re anticipating what could happen. I’m so proud of this team and the way they roll with the punches.”

While Team SunServe rolls along, Team Tony is providing TLC at home. His parents, Esther and Tony, and his boyfriend, Dr. Guillermo Salinas, are taking care of him while he does physical therapy and literally gets back on his feet.

He hopes to be back and active in June, optimally in time for Stonewall Pride.

“We see it as our pride, since our main campus is in the center of Wilton Manors. We want to put our stamp on the advocacy and protesting necessary.”