How Amy Margolies Found Health, Community, and Purpose in South Florida
When Amy Margolies and her family left Short Hills, New Jersey, for South Florida, it wasn’t just about warmer weather or a change of scenery—it was about embracing a healthier, more fulfilling lifestyle. After facing a breast cancer diagnosis, the pandemic, and the loss of her father-in-law, Amy and her husband Jay realized that prioritizing their physical and mental well-being was paramount.
“Health is wealth,” Amy says, a sentiment that led the family to seek out more outdoor activities, a strong sense of community, and new opportunities more than 1,200 miles away.
“For Amy and her family, the journey wasn’t just a relocation,” says Suburban Jungle Florida Strategist Melissa Schneider, who worked with Amy on their big move. “It was a life reset, and South Florida was the perfect place for their exciting new chapter.”
A sunnier outlook in South Florida
For Amy, the decision to leave New Jersey wasn’t just about relocating. It was driven by a desire for a healthier lifestyle after her breast cancer diagnosis. In the middle of the pandemic, while pregnant with her youngest daughter, Liv, Amy underwent cancer treatment, all while managing the challenges of COVID-19. That period of her life was a turning point, and she realized that her health—physical and mental—was key.
“Health is the most important thing,” Amy says. “If you don’t have your health, nothing else matters.”
The couple had spent time in South Florida visiting her husband Jay’s parents and, after every trip, wondered if they should consider making a move. With each visit, the vision of a life filled with sunshine, outdoor activities, and a calmer pace seemed more and more clear—until, soon enough, it became the perfect path forward.
Embracing life in the Sunshine State
With their next steps laid out, Amy and Jay dove into the process with Melissa. But their move didn’t happen overnight.
“We spent two years working with Suburban Jungle, looking at different areas and figuring out what made the most sense for us. It’s all about finding what works for your family and making the move when it feels right,” Amy says.
Major relocations can take time, Melissa says, and she encourages families to explore the unique options in South Florida.
“I’ve made the move,” Melissa says. “I was a lifelong New Yorker until we relocated to Florida. So I get it! When you’re ready, you’re ready and you want to be here. But taking a step back, thinking about what’s important now and in the future, and working with your Suburban Jungle Strategist is so important to ensure you find the perfect town and the perfect community for your lifestyle.”
One of the family’s key priorities was being close to Jay’s mother in Palm Beach Gardens. They also wanted a fresh and dynamic community with lots to do.
“We wanted a place where everyone was in the same stage of life—where people were moving in together, making friends, and creating community,” Amy says. They specifically wanted a neighborhood where their three children—Leo (14), Mia (12), and Liv (4)—could ride their bikes and enjoy all of the local happenings.
After looking at several areas, including Wellington and Parkland, they ultimately chose Boca Raton’s Lotus, a newer gated community that checked all of their boxes.
“They wanted to be close to Jay’s mom, but also needed to be somewhere that made sense for their daily lives—both work and play,” Melissa says. “Lotus was the perfect balance.”
Settling into South Florida
Two years into their search, the family headed to South Florida, a lifestyle shift that aligned perfectly with their wants, needs, and goals. At the same time, Amy says, moving three kids—each at different stages of life—was no small task, but the family quickly found their groove.
“The kids have adjusted really well,” Amy says. “Liv loves swimming, and Leo and Mia have made good friends. There’s something really special about being in a place where everyone is so active and community-oriented.” They’ve also been able to lean into favorite activities and spend more time together as a family. “Both my husband and I play tennis and pickleball, Leo is playing golf and tennis,Mia is riding horses, and Liv swims and dances. It’s so important for us to have that outdoor lifestyle—mentally and physically.”
One surprise, though, was the lack of seasonal change—a stark contrast to the Northeast. “We were used to the seasons, so it was funny to see pumpkins next to palm trees when fall came around,” she says. “But honestly, I’ll take the sunshine any day.”
The school system in Florida was another plus, Amy says. Coming from top-rated public schools in New Jersey, Amy was initially concerned about the options in Boca, but she found that the choice and variety of educational programs in Florida exceeded her expectations.
“There are so many great programs here—my son is in an engineering program, and there are incredible options for all the kids. It really opened our eyes to the possibilities.”
Launching Sunshine Theory
As Amy settled into her new life in Boca Raton, she also found a deeper purpose. Her experience with cancer and the challenges of balancing work, treatment, and motherhood led her to launch Sunshine Theory, a platform that supports cancer survivors.
“When I finished treatment, I realized I wanted to help others going through similar experiences,” Amy says. “I started Sunshine Theory to provide support, coaching, and resources to survivors who need help navigating life after treatment.”
Amy now dedicates her time to coaching cancer survivors through a five-step program that addresses emotional healing, physical wellness, and the fear of recurrence.
“When you finish treatment, you feel like you’re dropped, and it’s hard to find your way. I work with survivors to help them grieve their old selves and discover their new identities.” Amy’s approach focuses on mental health, nutrition, and finding a positive outlook—key components that helped her through her own journey.
Now, reflecting on her journey from Short Hills to Boca, Amy has no regrets. “We’re so happy we made the leap,” she says. “This move has been everything we hoped for and more.”
Ready to make a move–or considering what comes next? Let’s talk! Schedule a free suburbs strategy session now.
