WHAT: Doernbecher Freestyle VI shoe unveiling and auction event
WHO: Six Doernbecher patients-turned-Nike designers will unveil their shoes and share their inspiring stories of triumph over serious illness
WHEN: Saturday, Sept. 19, 5:30 to 9 p.m. (opening remarks at 6:45 p.m.)
WHERE: Wieden+Kennedy, 224 N.W. 13th Ave., Portland, OR 97209
WHY: Auction proceeds benefit health care and research programs at OHSU Doernbecher
Six one-of-kind Nike shoes designed by OHSU Doernbecher Children's Hospital patients will make their debut at the 2009 Doernbecher Freestyle kick-off event. A unique partnership between Nike and Doernbecher, Freestyle raises significant funds for Doernbecher while giving courageous former patients a unique and empowering form of self-expression. Nike generously donates all net proceeds from nationwide Freestyle sales to the hospital. Money raised at Saturday's event will further benefit Doernbecher.
This year's designers hail from Salem, Lake Oswego, Stayton, Mt. Angel and Elgin, Ore., and Stevenson, Wash. They were treated by Doernbecher specialists in cancer, liver dysfunction, kidney disease, neurosurgery and cardiology. They will be on hand Saturday to share their stories, explain their designs and pump up the crowd for an exciting live auction of each shoe, autographed by a top celebrity athlete.
Designers and Nike representatives will be available for interviews 4:30 to 5:15 p.m.