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11-Year-Old Burn Survivor Gets Emotional Send-Off After Months of Recovery
After seven months of treatment and a long road to recovery, 11-year-old Abigail Alcenat received an emotional send-off from the people who helped her survive.
Abigail was wheeled out of Jackson Memorial Hospital surrounded by her parents and brothers as firefighters, hospital staff, family and friends gathered to celebrate her progress.
Her father, Edjohns Alcenat, called the moment one of the greatest days of his life.
The 11-year-old has been receiving care at the Miami Burn Center since January following a devastating crash and fire. Doctors say her survival was uncertain at times.
Dr. Shevonne Satahoo of Jackson Memorial Hospital said caring for Abigail over the past seven months had been an emotional journey.
She credited the Miami Burn Center team with helping Abigail through the difficult recovery, which has taken an emotional and physical toll on those caring for her.
Abigail's brother, Jonathan Alcenat, was driving when the crash happened. He said he woke up in the hospital four days later and remembers seeing the vehicle after the crash.
Now, he said, seeing his sister reach the point where she can leave the hospital is an emotional moment for the entire family.
Among those gathered to celebrate Abigail was Palm Beach County firefighter Christopher Sheehan, who helped pull her from the burning vehicle.
Sheehan praised Abigail's strength and resilience, saying she has remained happy and smiling despite everything she has endured.
While Abigail is leaving the hospital, her recovery is far from over. She faces additional surgeries and years of therapy and will continue returning to Jackson Memorial for regular treatment.
A GoFundMe campaign called "All In for Abi" has been established to help Abigail's family with medical and other expenses.
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By: NBC Palm Springs
August 21, 2026
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