Cary, N.C. [August 4, 2022] – The second annual Blocking Cancer dinner was held on Thursday, July 21, and hosted by Indianapolis Colts’ All-Pro Offensive Lineman Quenton Nelson. The event, supporting the V Foundation for Cancer Research, a top-rated cancer research charity, raised $280,000 including a $50,000 donation from Colts owner Jim Irsay on behalf of Nelson. Nelson established the Blocking Cancer initiative in 2021 to fund game-changing cancer research through the V Foundation, with the annual dinner as the flagship fundraiser. The dinner was presented by Gregor Private Wealth Group at Merrill Lynch.
“The V Foundation personally holds a special place in my heart,” said Nelson. “Cancer affects everyone, whether it’s you having it or family members having it. We’re here for a great cause and to fight cancer off and be victorious over it.”
This year, attendees had the opportunity to bid on exclusive live and silent auction items after enjoying dinner courtesy of Anthony’s Chophouse. The Blocking Cancer campaign continues as a year-round effort to raise awareness and funds in pursuit of achieving Victory Over Cancer®. Throughout his life, Quenton has been inspired and motivated by the famous Jim Valvano ESPYS speech that launched the V Foundation in 1993. He has applied that “Don’t Ever Give Up!” attitude to his life and NFL career.
“Our mission at the Colts is to entertain, but also to inspire and unite our community around important causes, and that’s exactly what Quenton is doing with his support of the V Foundation,” said Jim Irsay, Colts Owner & CEO. “We all know how often cancer robs us of life and loved ones, so I’m so proud of Big Q for leading the charge in the battle against this cruel disease.”
The V Foundation holds 11 consecutive 4-star (highest) ratings from Charity Navigator, America’s largest evaluator of charities, making the Foundation among the top 2% of all charities evaluated. The V Foundation is also a GuideStar Platinum-rated charity. To learn more about the V Foundation, please visit v.org.
About the V Foundation for Cancer Research
The V Foundation for Cancer Research was founded in 1993 by ESPN and the late Jim Valvano, legendary North Carolina State University basketball coach and ESPN commentator. The V Foundation has funded nearly $290 million in cancer research grants nationwide. Event proceeds benefit cancer research funded by the V Foundation. The Foundation awards game-changing grants through a competitive process strictly supervised by a Scientific Advisory Committee. For more information on the V Foundation, please visit v.org.
Media Contact:
Torrey Winchester
918-638-1413
torrey@intrepidmg.com