Dolphins Cancer Challenge Marks $100 Million Milestone at Crucial Catch Game
A halftime presentation at the Miami Dolphins’ Crucial Catch game celebrated more than $100 million invested in cancer research and patient care at Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center through the Dolphins Cancer Challenge.
Key Takeaways
- The Dolphins Cancer Challenge has surpassed $100 million invested in cancer research and patient care at Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center since 2010.
- DCC XVI raised more than $18 million in support of Sylvester.
- DCC XVII is scheduled for Feb. 27, 2027, at the Miami International Autodrome at Hard Rock Stadium.
As Dolphins fans cheered from the stands during the Oct.11 Crucial Catch game at Hard Rock Stadium, cancer survivors, researchers and community leaders took center stage on the field. The halftime celebration marked a historic milestone. More than $18 million has been raised through the Dolphins Cancer Challenge XVI (DCC), the Miami Dolphins’ signature fundraising initiative to benefit Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, part of the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, and more than $100 million invested in cancer research and patient care at Sylvester since the DCC’s inception in 2010.
One hundred percent of funds raised by thousands of DCC participants, donors, volunteers, survivors and community partners support Sylvester, fueling clinical trials, treatment innovation and access to care across South Florida.
A Game Day Filled with Tributes
The halftime milestone was one of several moving moments throughout the game. Crucial Catch, an initiative of the NFL and the American Cancer Society, promotes cancer prevention and early detection while honoring those affected by the disease.
“Surpassing $100 million is a monumental achievement, and a testament to the incredible support of friends, family, community members and the Dolphins organization in the fight against cancer,” said Javier Sanchez, executive director of the Dolphins Cancer Challenge. “But the true celebration is honoring the survivors and fighters that those funds directly impact every day. We’re grateful to recognize them at today’s game and are truly inspired by their stories.”
Survivors were recognized in on-field moments, including taking to the field during the halftime presentation and ringing the Living Proof Bell to commemorate the impact of the funds raised by DCC and implemented at Sylvester.
Stephen D. Nimer, M.D., director of Sylvester, accepted the check on their behalf, as well as Sylvester physicians, researchers and community partners.
“Our partnership with the Miami Dolphins reflects the extraordinary impact we can have when a community comes together to support cancer research and patient care,” said Dr. Nimer, who is also the Oscar de la Renta Endowed Chair in Cancer Research and executive dean for research at the Miller School. “Through the Dolphins Cancer Challenge, we can invest in innovative research, accelerate discoveries and bring new and more effective treatments to our patients. We are deeply grateful to the Miami Dolphins and the entire South Florida community for their continued commitment to our mission and to improving the lives of patients and families affected by cancer.”
As part of UHealth—University of Miami Health System, Sylvester is the region’s only NCI-designated Cancer Center and ranked the No. 1 cancer program in Florida by U.S. News & World Report.
Believe in You Survivors Take Part
Among the survivors honored were 37 members of Sylvester’s Believe in You program, led by Tracy Crane, Ph.D., RDN, co-leader of the Cancer Control Program and director of lifestyle medicine, prevention and digital health at Sylvester.
The 20-week program brings cancer survivors and support people together through physical activity, nutrition education and a supportive community. As participants prepare for the DCC’s annual cycling, run and walk event, they work toward personal goals, build confidence and develop healthy habits they can sustain beyond the program.
“Believe in You is about helping survivors build strength, regain confidence and experience the power of a community that shows up for them,” Dr. Crane said. “We want everyone facing cancer to know they are seen, supported and valued. Watching our participants celebrated on this field brings that message to life, an entire stadium cheering them on, with a shared commitment to their health and their future.”
A Shared Mission to Find Cures
Founded in 2010, the DCC has grown into a year-round movement that unites thousands of participants from South Florida and across the country. Over the life of the partnership, DCC funding has supported research, the recruitment of leading researchers and clinicians, and technologies used in cancer detection, diagnosis and treatment at Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center
Join the Movement
DCC XVII, is scheduled for Feb. 27, 2027, at Hard Rock Stadium’s Miami International Autodrome. Registration is now open.
More from Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center
Sylvester researchers will test whether a KRAS vaccine, RAS inhibitor and immunotherapy can strengthen responses against pancreatic cancer.
Cancer philanthropist Bippy Siegal joins Sylvester’s Board of Governors, bringing business experience and a commitment to research.
Registration for Dolphins Cancer Challenge XVII opens August 10. Join the new Day 1 Club and support cancer research at Sylvester.
Community‑powered event marks a historic fundraising milestone for cancer research at Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center.
Tags: Believe in You – You Are Living Proof, cancer screening, Crucial Catch, DCC, dolphins cancer challenge, Dr. Stephen Nimer, Dr. Tracy Crane, Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center