Volunteer of the Month | Sal “Joe” Nunziata

In 2007, at the age of 39, Joe Nunziata’s primary care physician discovered that he was suffering from a mitral valve prolapse (MVP) during a routine physical. Joe was told he needed a heart valve replacement. His condition was deemed so risky few doctors were willing to take on his case. Joe searched all over the country for a surgeon skilled enough to conduct this specialized procedure. Ironically, he found one in the place he least expected – right in his backyard at Florida Hospital (now AdventHealth) Heart, Lung and Vascular Institute. During their first consultation, Dr. Kevin Accola told Joe that he could repair not replace his damaged heart valve, giving Joe complete confidence in his surgical expertise. Twenty-four years later, Joe credits Dr. Accola and his longtime cardiologist Dr. Chin Kim with saving his life.

Shortly after his patient experience, Joe wanted to express his gratitude by getting involved with the hospital. In 2007, along with a handful of other dedicated volunteers, Joe founded the Heart, Lung and Vascular Institute (CVI) Board of Directors and has served as a member ever since. Joe currently co-chairs CVI’s Board Development Committee and has recruited numerous high-profile community and business leaders for board service and philanthropic contributions. Most recently, Joe and his wife Jodi renewed their personal philanthropic commitment to the Foundation and named a physician-consult family room as part of the renovation and expansion of the new Heart, Lung and Vascular Institute Surgical Unit Family Waiting Room.

“AdventHealth treats their patients like family, not transactions. AdventHealth has come through for me, my family and friends time and time again.”

Today, Joe is the Co-CEO of FBC Mortgage, LLC, and a Director at One Florida Bank, a Central Florida based community bank. He is a graduate of the University of South Florida with a degree in business. Joe and his wife Jodi live in Winter Park and have three adult children, including twins.

AdventHealth Foundation Central Florida is proud to honor Joe Nunziata and his lifelong commitment to improving the quality of life and healthcare in our community!

GO HERE to donate to the AdventHealth Heart, Lung and Vascular Institute.