This October, the Green Bay Packers, Bellin Health and the Vince Lombardi Cancer Foundation are teaming up and inviting fans to take part in the Packers Vs. Cancer campaign.
For the second straight year, the initiative is aimed at raising awareness of all cancers and raising funds for research and cancer care.
"Cancer continues to touch the lives of many in our community, and we're proud to team up with Bellin Health and the Vince Lombardi Cancer Foundation to show our support for the families and individuals that have been affected," said Packers President/CEO Mark Murphy. "By increasing awareness and raising funds, we can ensure that more people get screened and have the resources they need to fight cancer."
Packers Vs. Cancer will be highlighted by the Packers-49ers game on Oct. 15, presented by Bellin Health, which will recognize cancer survivors on the field during the pregame Ambassador Line, the national anthem and halftime activities. Game attendees can also show their support with the game giveaway flag.
Packers linebacker Blake Martinez, the spokesperson for the initiative, took part in a public service announcement, which will air in October throughout Wisconsin, reminding fans how they can be a part of Packers Vs. Cancer. Several Packers players will also join the effort, visiting cancer patients in the hospital and meeting with survivors as part of the initiative throughout the season.
"Cancer is a devastating disease, but we know that improved awareness and higher rates of screening are making a difference when it comes to prognoses and long-term survival rates," said Bellin Health President and CEO George Kerwin. "This high-visibility campaign is an important part of that work, and we are honored to partner with the Packers and the Vince Lombardi Cancer Foundation to be a part of it."
The Packers, Bellin Health and Vince Lombardi Cancer Foundation kicked off Packers vs. Cancer, a campaign aimed at raising awareness for all cancers.
The initiative, which will run from now throughout the month of October, also features a variety of fundraising efforts, including an opportunity for shoppers at the Packers Pro Shop to contribute by adding $1 or more to their purchase that will go directly to the Vince Lombardi Cancer Foundation. Those who donate during October have the opportunity to put their name on a special card that will be displayed in the Pro Shop throughout the month.
Additionally, the Packers Pro Shop is again selling a Vince Lombardi cancer awareness hat available for purchase now at the Packers Pro Shop, with $5 from each hat sale going directly to the Vince Lombardi Cancer Foundation. Each hat purchased will also come with a free 100 Seasons pin, while supplies last, in-store and online at PackersProShop.com.
Packers players will also bring the Packers Vs. Cancer initiative to the high school level by visiting with fans at Pulaski High School, when the Red Raiders take on the Preble High School Hornets on Oct. 5. Community members are invited to the game, and rally towels and t-shirts will be for sale, with proceeds benefitting the Vince Lombardi Cancer Foundation.
Named for the legendary Packers coach, the Vince Lombardi Cancer Foundation is dedicated to winning the battle against cancer by funding advancements in cancer research and compassionate care.
"We're proud to continue our partnership with the Green Bay Packers and Bellin Health. When combined, the strengths of our organizations have a powerful impact in the fight against cancer," said Benjamin R. Haas, President of the Vince Lombardi Cancer Foundation. "Winning the battle against cancer is only possible when we come together, and this partnership brings us one step closer to our goal."