The Miami Dolphins announced today that the Dolphins Cancer Challenge (DCC) has surpassed a historic $100 million raised, with 100 percent of funds supporting life-saving cancer research and care at Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, part of the University of Miami Health System and the Miller School of Medicine. This announcement comes in the lead up to DCC XVI, which will take place this Saturday, February 28, at Hard Rock Stadium.
Now in its 16th year, the DCC has grown to become the largest annual fundraiser in the NFL, uniting tens of thousands of participants from South Florida and throughout the country to run, walk and ride in support of innovative research, access to care and hope for cancer patients. Since its founding in 2010, the DCC's impact has helped elevate Sylvester to Florida's only National Cancer Institute (NCI)–designated cancer center, placing it among the nation's elite institutions for cancer research and care.
"This milestone achievement belongs to our entire community of cancer fighters," said Tom Garfinkel, vice chairman, president and CEO of the Miami Dolphins. "Surpassing $100 million is a demonstration of the power of people coming together around a shared mission to fight cancer. It would not have been possible without the support of Stephen Ross, the dedication of our partners; especially Stuart Miller and the Lennar Foundation, the University of Miami, the generosity of our community and the tireless and life-saving work being done by Dr. Stephen Nimer and the entire Sylvester team. We are grateful to be able to champion a cause that is impacting so many people in such a profound way. Surpassing $100 million at DCC XVI is remarkable and with the momentum we've built I'm confident that we can pass $200 million total at DCC XX in 2030."
Funding from the DCC has played a critical role in expanding Sylvester's reach and capabilities across South Florida and beyond. The center now operates 12 locations, anchored by the new Kenneth C. Griffin Cancer Research Building – a 12-story, 244,000-square-foot facility that has effectively doubled Sylvester's research footprint and supports hundreds of researchers focused on the cancers most impacting the South Florida community.
In July 2025, U.S. News & World Report ranked Sylvester as one of the nation's top 50 cancer centers, following an "Outstanding" rating from the NCI in 2024. Over the past five years, DCC support has also helped Sylvester recruit more than 300 world-class physicians and scientists, further strengthening its position as a premier destination for cancer care.
The DCC's investments extend beyond treatment to survivorship and long-term health. Through initiatives such as Believe In You, an 18-week evidence-based program led by Dr. Tracy Crane, patients benefit from science-driven approaches that improve recovery, reduce recurrence risk and enhance quality of life.
Funds raised by the DCC have also helped advance discipline-specific research through endowed chairs, including the Sylvester DCC Living Proof Endowed Chair in Cancer Survivorship, led by Frank Penedo, PhD, and the SebastianStrong Dolphins Cancer Challenge Endowed Chair in Pediatric Cancer Research, led by Aditi Dhir, MD.
The DCC's impact has been amplified through strategic, multi-year partnerships with leading national and local organizations, including the V Foundation, American Cancer Society, Breast Cancer Research Foundation, SebastianStrong Foundation and more. These collaborations have supported Sylvester's efforts to accelerate scientific discovery, address disparities in cancer research and care, and expand life-saving treatment options for patients across South Florida and beyond.
Momentum continues toward another record-breaking year as the Miami Dolphins host the DCC XVI on Saturday, Feb. 28, 2026. Founded in honor of late Dolphins legend and cancer fighter Jim "Mad Dog" Mandich, the annual run, walk and cycling event will once again bring the community together at Hard Rock Stadium's Miami International Autodrome. The DCC continues to accept donations as it builds toward another record-breaking year and the next chapter of impact.
To learn more or support the cause, visit dolphinscancerchallenge.com.
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ABOUT THE DOLPHINS CANCER CHALLENGE (DCC):
The Dolphins Cancer Challenge (DCC) is the Miami Dolphins' year-round initiative supporting those impacted by cancer. Founded in 2010 in honor of former Dolphins player and broadcaster Jim "Mad Dog" Mandich, the DCC is the largest fundraising event in the NFL, raising more than $100 million. One-hundred percent of funds raised support innovative cancer research and care at Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, part of the University of Miami Health System and the Miller School of Medicine. These contributions have directly supported Sylvester's efforts to expand access to care across South Florida, advance cutting-edge scientific research, fund major infrastructure projects and strengthen survivorship programs. In 2025, the event welcomed 7,300 participants and raised more than $15 million. Donations are accepted through March 13. To donate or learn more, visit dolphinscancerchallenge.com.
