Since 2003, nearly 100 young designers who have suffered serious illness or injuries have contributed to Doernbecher Freestyle to create widely celebrated Nike footwear and apparel collections. These designs have been auctioned and sold to benefit Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU) Doernbecher Children’s Hospital, the same hospital that saved the lives of the creative geniuses behind them.

This year, the ongoing coronavirus pandemic changed the course of the Doernbecher Freestyle event as it will now be held virtually. The event celebrates and reflects on the exceptional young patients who have courageously shared their personal stories of strength. It will also feature the unveiling of a special-edition shoe design that celebrates 17 years of Doernbecher Freestyle by fusing 14 iconic Doernbecher Freestyle designs into one.

100% of the proceeds raised during the event will be donated to benefit hospital patients and staff in multiple ways, such as delivering advanced clinical treatment and emotional support that helps lift spirits. Click here to donate now.

The one-hour livestream will be free of charge, however registration is required prior to attendance. Attendants of the event will be able to:

  • Hear from the alumni Doernbecher Freestyle patient-designers
  • Have the opportunity to raise a virtual paddle to donate
  • Be the first to see (and bid on) a limited run, special-edition shoe design that celebrates 17 years of Doernbecher Freestyle

The “Virtually Freestyle” Event will be live-streamed on Thursday, February 25th, 2021 beginning at 6pm. Whether or not a full Nike Doernbecher collection will be released this year remains to be seen, though the collection that was slated to release last year, Freestyle XVII, was postponed with hopes of a Spring 2021 debut. Stay tuned to Modern Notoriety for updates.