Play with Purpose: A Heartwarming Partnership

ESTA and Extra Life’s Mission for Lurie Children’s Hospital

In a world where the power of play can transform lives, the Esports Trade Association (ESTA) stands as a beacon of hope and joy for children facing health challenges. Since 2022, ESTA has partnered with the Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago, bringing the magic of gaming to the hospital’s young patients through the Extra Life Fundraiser.

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Sowing seeds of hope

The seeds of this impactful partnership were planted when a development officer at Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago approached Megan Van Petten, the founder of ESTA, to explore collaboration possibilities. This conversation marked the beginning of a relationship that has since blossomed, enriching the lives of children at Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago. Over three years, the partnership has grown stronger, with the Lurie/Extra Life team becoming integral to ESTA’s operations and fundraising committee. This collaboration is celebrated annually at the EsportsNext conference, which started in 2020, merging esports with charitable initiatives.

Creating joy at the Panda Cares Center of Hope

The highlight of this partnership is the event hosted at Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago’s inpatient play center, the Panda Cares Center of Hope. This vibrant space is a sanctuary where children can momentarily escape the rigors of their medical treatments and immerse themselves in a world of play and creativity. Here, weekly events and programs are meticulously designed to bring light and joy to patients and their families. Understanding that illness affects the entire family, Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago ensures that their events cater not only to patients but also to their siblings, parents, and relatives.

The Panda Cares Center of Hope stands as a testament to the hospital’s commitment to holistic healing. It recognizes that emotional well-being is a critical component of recovery, and through a variety of engaging activities, it aims to uplift the spirits of everyone involved. The center offers a wide range of programs, from arts and crafts to interactive storytelling sessions, ensuring that there is something for everyone.

Gaming: a gateway to community and belonging

Video games have a unique ability to create virtual worlds where children can explore, compete and collaborate with their peers. They serve as a powerful tool for normalization, offering patients a way to engage in activities like those of their healthy counterparts. This sense of normalcy is crucial for maintaining a positive outlook and fostering resilience.

“The ESTA event provides a normalizing and fun afternoon through a love of video gaming,” said Jackie Lohr, development officer for the Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals at the Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago Foundation. “For children unable to participate in traditional sports and games, video games offer a perfect alternative. They provide not only entertainment but also a sense of community and belonging, which can feel lacking in the isolating environment of a hospital.”

These gaming events contribute to the emotional and psychological well-being of patients. They help reduce stress, alleviate anxiety and provide a much-needed break from the constant focus on illness. The importance of these events extends beyond the children to their families. Siblings, often feeling neglected or overshadowed by the attention given to the sick child, find joy and inclusion in these activities. Parents and relatives, who face immense emotional strain, get to witness moments of happiness and laughter, which can be profoundly healing.

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Leveling Up: Exciting Activities and New Additions

Last year’s event featured a variety of gaming activities, including a Mario Kart tournament, Pacman, air hockey, gaming-related arts and crafts, and a Twitch-style video game setup. These activities allowed patients to experience the thrill of being a streamer, among other fun experiences.

This year, ESTA has taken the excitement to a new level with the introduction of “Game On,” a groundbreaking segment that will be hosted by Ian Porter, known by his handle Crimsix. A former Call of Duty pro, current race driver, and 2024 ESTA Hall of Fame inductee, Crimsix brings a wealth of experience and enthusiasm to the event.

“Game On” is designed to be an inclusive and interactive experience, featuring E-rated video games that are suitable for all ages. Patients in the play center can participate directly, while those unable to leave their rooms can join in the fun through the hospital’s internal network broadcast. This innovative format ensures that every child, regardless of their physical limitations, can be part of the excitement.

“Game On” is not just about playing games; it’s about creating a sense of community and normalcy within the hospital. Children can call in from their hospital beds, interact with Crimsix, and engage with their peers in a virtual environment. This inclusive approach maximizes participation and ensures that every child has the opportunity to experience joy and distraction from their medical challenges.

Every patient who participates in “Game On” earns a prize, adding an extra layer of motivation and excitement. The participation of children varies based on several factors, including the number of inpatients and their health conditions, but the goal is always to include as many children as possible.

ESTA Hall of Famers become involved

Each year, ESTA invites its Hall of Fame Inductee to participate in fundraising efforts through Extra Life, raising awareness and providing children in the hospital with a fun experience. The Hall of Fame award recognizes individuals who have made significant and lasting contributions to the esports industry, shaping its development and advancing its growth. Charles Conroy was last year’s inductee, and Crimsix is this year’s inductee. To thank Charles for his efforts and witness his impact firsthand, he was invited to Lurie’s to participate in the event and game with patients. This tradition continues this year with Crimsix, who will also be participating in the event and gaming with the patients.

“The ESTA Hall-of-Famer event is unique in that it brings experts in the video game field to interact and talk with patients about how to game professionally,” said Jackie Lohr. “We are so grateful to have the opportunity to host ESTA and their Hall of Famer so that patients can interact with, and have fun with, someone who can really appreciate and talk about video games.”

Fundraising Efforts and Goals

At the core of this partnership is a relentless drive to raise funds that fuel hope and innovation. In 2023, ESTA raised $2,685 and has ambitiously set its sights on a goal of $25,000 for this year. These donations are the lifeblood of Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago, providing the flexibility needed to make a real difference.

No matter the amount, each donation builds a foundation of hope and healing. These funds empower the hospital to swiftly adapt to emerging needs, ensuring every child receives not only medical treatment but also crucial emotional and psychological support. Through the generosity of donors, ESTA and Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago can continue to make a profound and lasting difference in the lives of countless young patients and their families.

Compassionate Collaboration

The partnership between ESTA and Lurie Children’s Hospital has blossomed into a heartwarming collaboration that exemplifies the power of community, uplifts spirits and inspires hope. By combining fundraising with engaging activities, ESTA continues to bring joy and support to the young patients at Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago, creating lasting memories for children and families facing adversity while also providing essential resources for their care and well-being.

Together, we can create more stories of joy and recovery, proving that in every game played and every dollar donated, there is a spark of hope. Be a part of this extraordinary journey. Your support today can transform the lives of children, bringing smiles, laughter and the promise of a brighter tomorrow. Donate now and be the hero in a child’s story.