Blizzard Entertainment and Breast Cancer Research Foundation: A Successful Partnership in the Fight Against Breast Cancer
Blizzard Entertainment, well-known for its popular video game Overwatch, has once again joined forces with the Breast Cancer Research Foundation (BCRF) to make a significant impact in the battle against breast cancer. This year, their collaborative initiative, the "Mercy for a Cause" campaign, has achieved remarkable success, raising an astounding $12.3 million. This contribution marks the second-largest single corporate donation ever made to the BCRF, bringing Blizzard’s total contributions to more than $25 million, a substantial resource for life-saving breast cancer research.
Hope for a Brighter Future
Overwatch, a game loved by millions worldwide, partnered with BCRF, the largest private funder of breast cancer research globally, to run the "Mercy for a Cause" campaign. This initiative allowed players to purchase exclusive in-game items, with every penny of the proceeds, minus necessary platform fees and taxes, directed towards BCRF’s mission of preventing and curing breast cancer. The community’s enthusiastic participation played a crucial role in driving this extraordinary fundraising achievement.
The success of this year’s campaign is reminiscent of the original Pink Mercy campaign in 2018, which raised $12.7 million. This reiterates the Overwatch community’s ongoing commitment to contributing to breast cancer research. The cumulative total of donations now exceeds $25 million, supporting research initiatives that have the potential to change lives. The 2018 campaign funded several groundbreaking projects, including:
- Advanced AI for Mammogram Analysis: Researchers developed sophisticated artificial intelligence methods to analyze mammogram images, significantly improving breast cancer diagnosis and risk assessment.
- Predictive Models for Aggressive Cancer Forms: The development of predictive models has been crucial in identifying the most aggressive forms of breast cancer, such as triple-negative breast cancer, aiding in early intervention and treatment planning.
- Tumor Formation Delaying Treatments: Progress in treatments that can delay tumor formation has been pivotal, providing patients with additional options and hope.
- Gene Classifier for DCIS: The creation of a gene classifier that predicts the risk of invasive breast cancer in patients with ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) has been instrumental in assisting individuals with making informed treatment decisions.
In the coming months, BCRF and Overwatch plan to reveal more about the impactful research made possible by the 2024 campaign donation. This will provide further insight into how these funds are being utilized to advance scientific knowledge and treatment options.
Heroes for a Cause
The "Mercy for a Cause" event in Overwatch 2 introduced an all-new Rose Gold Mercy skin and bundle, along with the return of the beloved Pink Mercy skin. Players not only enjoyed these aesthetically pleasing in-game enhancements but also took on the role of real-life heroes by supporting research that saves lives. Mercy, a character embodying peace, healing, and hope in the game, continues to inspire players globally to contribute to positive change in the real world.
Without the dedication and generosity of the Overwatch community, reaching this milestone would not have been possible. The support from players has propelled some of the most promising research in breast cancer prevention and treatment, and Blizzard Entertainment, along with BCRF, extends their deepest gratitude to everyone involved. Together, this partnership moves us closer to a future where breast cancer could become a thing of the past.
Thank You for Your Support
Blizzard Entertainment and BCRF express their heartfelt thanks to every player who contributed to this campaign. The collective efforts have once again demonstrated that when we come together, we can make a substantial difference in the world.
About the Breast Cancer Research Foundation (BCRF)
Established in 1993, the Breast Cancer Research Foundation is the largest private funder of breast cancer research worldwide. Its mission is to advance the most innovative scientific projects, pushing the field closer to a world free from breast cancer. BCRF funds research that addresses every aspect of breast cancer, from prevention to metastasis, impacting countless lives each year. To learn more about BCRF and explore ways to support their vital work, visit their official website at bcrf.org.
In conclusion, the partnership between Blizzard Entertainment and the Breast Cancer Research Foundation exemplifies how the gaming community can contribute to significant societal issues. Through initiatives like "Mercy for a Cause," gamers have demonstrated their capacity to support critical research and make a tangible difference in the fight against breast cancer. As we look forward, the continued collaboration between these organizations promises to bring about even more advancements in breast cancer research, offering hope for millions around the world.
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