ESPN and V Foundation Launch 19th Annual V Week for Cancer Research
ESPN is set to kick off the 19th Annual V Week for Cancer Research, presented by Principal Financial Group, beginning on Giving Tuesday, December 2. This impactful event will run until December 14 and aims to raise funds for the V Foundation for Cancer Research. Throughout V Week, ESPN will highlight the legacy of Jim Valvano, the honored North Carolina State University basketball coach and ESPN commentator.
Details of V Week for Cancer Research
The initiative encourages donations that will be fully allocated to cancer research. To date, ESPN has contributed over $264 million towards this vital cause. The partnership with Principal represents a historic milestone as this is the first time Principal acts as the presenting sponsor.
Giving Tuesday and the $1 Million Match Challenge
On December 2, ESPN will launch its campaign for donations, coinciding with Giving Tuesday. Principal employees have initiated a generous $1 million match challenge to incentivize donations during V Week. This means every contribution has the potential to double in impact, reinforcing the commitment to accelerate innovative cancer research.
Spotlighting Cancer Impact in Sports
V Week will also showcase stories emphasizing the realities of cancer within the sports community. ESPN aims to raise awareness by sharing inspiring narratives from athletes and their families. Kevin Martinez from ESPN said, “Our commitment to achieving Victory Over Cancer® is fueled by the strength of many individuals across the sports landscape.”
Special Events and Initiatives
- NFL My Cause My Cleats (Dec. 1): Special cleats supporting the V Foundation will feature during broadcasts.
- ESPN Roadblock (Dec. 3): A tribute to Stuart Scott’s legacy will air from 7 p.m. to 7:15 p.m. ET.
- Men’s Jimmy V Classic (Dec. 9): Doubleheader at Madison Square Garden featuring Clemson vs. BYU and Florida vs. UConn.
- Boo-Yah Gala (Dec. 9-10): This event celebrates Stuart Scott and supports cancer research funding.
- Documentary Premiere (Dec. 10): “Boo-Yah: A Portrait of Stuart Scott” will air at 9 p.m. ET.
- Fight Like Hell Night (Dec. 13): UFC will promote stories encouraging support for the V Foundation.
Statistics and Future Projections
According to the National Cancer Institute, there are approximately 18.1 million cancer survivors in the U.S. as of 2022, an estimate expected to rise to 26 million by 2040. This highlights the ongoing need for vital cancer research funding.
For more information on V Week and to contribute to the fight against cancer, please visit the V Foundation’s website at v.org.
