20 years of Doernbecher Freestyle: Presenting the 2024 patient-designers

June 11, 2024 Nicole Rideout Community , Philanthropy

Nike-OHSU Doernbecher Freestyle patient designers

On Friday, October 18, six young patients from OHSU Doernbecher will reveal their personally designed Nike sneakers.

What started as a simple idea 20 years ago has now turned into an annual event that has raised nearly $37 million to benefit OHSU Doernbecher Children’s Hospital.

Since its inception in 2004, the Doernbecher Freestyle program has featured the incredible stories and creativity of 122 patient-designers and engaged over 330 Nike Design team employee volunteers and thousands of generous donors and community members. The longstanding partnership between Nike and OHSU Doernbecher gives young patients the opportunity to create one-of-a-kind footwear that is released and auctioned, with all profits benefiting the hospital where they received care.

The designs tell the patients’ personal stories of bravery, gratitude and hope. The profits from these sought-after designs have helped expand and support OHSU Doernbecher’s pioneering research and specialized care unavailable anywhere else in the region.

Now in its 20^th year, the annual auction event will take place Oct. 18 at the Portland Art Museum.

“It’s incredible to reflect on the past 20 years and all of the people who have been impacted by this unique program,” said Dana Braner, M.D., FAAP, FCCM, Credit Unions for Kids chair and professor of pediatrics (critical care) in the OHSU School of Medicine, and physician-in-chief of OHSU Doernbecher Children’s Hospital. “Every year we are amazed and inspired by these kids and their creativity, spirit, passion and desire to give back. Twenty years marks a special milestone for the Doernbecher community, and we’re so grateful for the community support and industry partnerships that continue to make this once-in-a-lifetime experience possible.”

Meet the Doernbecher Freestyle 20 patient-designers: