Harrison Axel Esquinaldo was born in Key West on May 18, 2016 and passed away 11 days later at Nicklaus Children’s Hospital in Miami due to congenital heart defect. Harrison’s parents, Alicia and Harrison Esquinaldo, own a custom fishing rod shop in Key West, Florida and wanted a way to honor their son and bring awareness to congenital heart defect, all while raising money to support other families facing the same tragedy.

 

Max Thomas Scanlon was born in Key West on October 10, 2019 and passed away at birth due to an umbilical cord accident. Max’s parents, Cassi and Jed Scanlon, also wanting to create a way to support families facing this unthinkable tragedy, founded Maxs’ Angels, an organization aimed at assisting grieving families with their expenses, mental health and well-being.

 

The two families were introduced through mutual friends and bonded quickly over their determination to honor their sons and their aspirations of helping other families experiencing similar tragedy. It was out of this bond that Reelin’ for the Cause was born.

 

On April 24, 2021, the Esquinaldo and Scanlon families hosted the 1st Annual Reelin’ for the Cause - Kids’ Fishing Tournament on the Edward B. Knight - White Street Pier to a remarkable success. It was a beautiful day that brought our community together to support each other and honor the lives of Harrison and Max. In the first year the foundation raised $15,000; the second year $30,000, third year $25,000 and last year we raised an incredible $55,000.

 

To date, Reelin’ for the Cause has donated $125,000 to Nicklaus Children’s Hospital in Harrison’s honor for CHD awareness and family support and this April 26, 2025 we will host the 5th annual Reelin’ for the Cause - Kids’ Fishing Tournament with the goal of bringing our community together as we continue to raise money to support families in need.

 

The tournament has grown into an amazing event that brings the community together.  Each year the angler registration fills up in a matter of minutes and the pier is packed with hundreds of families excited to be a part of the fun and CHD support. It has become a can’t miss event in our community and we cannot thank everyone enough for their support.

 

We look forward to seeing you all again on April 26, 2025!