Dolphins Cancer Challenge Presents Another Record-Breaking Check to Sylvester for Cancer Research

More than $15 million was raised as part of the DCC’s mission to fund groundbreaking research and patient care initiatives at South Florida’s only NCI-designated cancer center.

Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center staff and patients on the field during the Crucial Catch check presentation

In a demonstration of community commitment and persistence, Dolphins Cancer Challenge (DCC) recently presented a check for more than $15 million to Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, part of UHealth — University of Miami Health System. This remarkable achievement was the result of DCC XV, the Miami Dolphins annual fundraising event in support of innovative cancer research.

Sylvester Director Stephen D. Nimer, M.D., accepted the celebratory check during pregame of the NFL’s designated Crucial Catch game at Hard Rock Stadium Oct. 12, where the Miami Dolphins faced off against the Los Angeles Chargers. He was joined on the field by leadership from Sylvester, the Miami Dolphins, DCC and its partners.

Halftime featured an interactive throwing competition between Sylvester doctors and cancer survivors from Sylvester’s Believe in You program that contributed to their team’s DCC fundraising goal. At the conclusion of the halftime, three cancer survivors from the Believe In You program rang the Living Proof bell, symbolic of the completion of treatment and triumph over cancer.

Celebrating the Perfect Partnership

DCC XV, which took place in February, was the most successful DCC yet. A record-setting number of attendees raised more than $15 million, bringing the total to nearly $100 million in support of Sylvester’s cancer research mission.

“We’re proud to continue our partnership with Sylvester as we look to support their efforts to drive meaningful impact for cancer research,” said Dolphins Cancer Challenge Executive Director Javier Sanchez. “It’s always special to celebrate that progress with our fans and this community, and we look forward to continuing our contributions in the fight against cancer as we aim to surpass $100 million raised and reach even greater heights together in the years ahead.”

DCC Executive Director Javier Sanchez with Dr. Stephen Nimer
DCC Executive Director Javier Sanchez (left) with Sylvester Director Dr. Stephen D. Nimer

“Our partnership with the Miami Dolphins continues to reach new levels. Each year, we set new records in the funds raised for cancer research and, together, we have changed the face of cancer care and cancer research in South Florida,” said Dr. Nimer, also the Oscar de la Renta Endowed Chair in Cancer Research and executive dean for research at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine. “The commitment and drive to support this important work is truly inspiring.”

Supporting Cancer Research and Care

As the signature fundraising event of the Miami Dolphins, the DCC supports innovative cancer research at Sylvester, the only National Cancer Institute-designated cancer center in South Florida and one of the top 50 cancer centers nationwide, as ranked by U.S. News and World Report.

Founded in 2010, the Dolphins Cancer Challenge has grown to become the largest fundraising event in the NFL. Every dollar raised by participants goes directly to Sylvester’s physician-scientists, fueling breakthroughs in cancer care, cutting-edge technology and personalized treatment.

Register for DCC XVI

Feb. 28, 2026, Hard Rock Stadium’s Miami International Autodrome


Tags: cancer research, DCC, DCC IX, dolphins cancer challenge, Dr. Stephen Nimer, Miami Dolphins, philanthropy, Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center