ESPN’s 11th annual V Week for Cancer Research set a new record, raising more than $4.5 million for the V Foundation for Cancer Research. That represents a 17% increase from the 2016 total of $3.8 million. All proceeds raised go directly to cancer research and related programs.

“Each year we continue to make tremendous progress towards the fight against cancer by sharing heartfelt stories and inspiring journeys, while documenting the wide-ranging challenges that our friends and loved ones faces,” said Kevin Martinez, vice president of ESPN Corporate Citizenship. “It is our way of using the power of sports to make a difference.”

“V Week is a special time for the V Foundation,” said Susan Braun, CEO of the V Foundation.  “Our wonderful partners at ESPN raise critical funds for cancer research and give the world our shared message of hope:  We WILL have victory over cancer!”

This year’s campaign — with the theme ‘Cancer Is’ — ran from Nov. 28 – Dec. 8 and focused on capturing each person’s journey and experience as a patient, caretaker, researcher or individual affected by cancer.

Also new for 2017 was ESPN’s collaboration with Twitch — the world’s leading social video service and community for the video game culture, hosting a 24-hour live streaming marathon called “Don’t Ever Give Up.”

Over the past 11 years, V Week fundraising has totaled over $22.2 million for cancer research.

About the V Foundation for Cancer Research
The V Foundation for Cancer Research is dedicated to declaring victory over cancer.  It was founded in 1993 by ESPN and the late Jim Valvano, legendary North Carolina State basketball coach and ESPN commentator. Since 1993, the Foundation has funded more than $200 million in cancer research grants nationwide. It awards 100 percent of all direct cash donations to cancer research and related programs. Due to generous donors, the Foundation has an endowment that covers administrative expenses.  The Foundation awards peer-reviewed grants through a competitive awards process vetted by a Scientific Advisory Committee.  For more information on the V Foundation, please visit www.jimmyv.org.

About ESPN Corporate Citizenship
ESPN believes that, at its very best, sports uplifts the human spirit. Its corporate citizenship programs use power of sport to positively address society’s needs through strategic community investments, cause marketing programs, collaboration with sports organizations and employee volunteerism, while also utilizing its diverse media assets. For more information go to www.espn.com/citizenship.

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Contact: Belen Michelis, ESPN, (860) 766-1425, [email protected]