Minnesota Vikings wide receiver Justin Jefferson has raised more than $45,000 for cancer research through a charity bowling event, while giving a young fan undergoing treatment an experience she is unlikely to forget. According to announcements published by the Minnesota Vikings on October 6 and the NFL Players Association (NFLPA) on October 9, 2026, Jefferson also surprised seven-year-old Claire Van Epps, who has been undergoing treatment for Ewing sarcoma, with two tickets to Super Bowl LXI.
The NFL star and his JJets Foundation hosted the inaugural “Strike Out Cancer” fundraiser for the American Cancer Society (ACS), bringing together cancer patients, survivors, caregivers and Vikings teammates.
The event raised funds for cancer research and support services while giving 25 cancer patients, survivors and caregivers an opportunity to meet Jefferson and spend time with the football star. The player then called her to the front of the room and presented her with oversized tickets to Super Bowl LXI, scheduled for February 2027. The NFLPA named Jefferson its Week 5 Community MVP on October 9 in recognition of the fundraiser and his broader charitable work. The organisation confirmed that the bowling event raised more than $45,000 for the American Cancer Society to support cancer research. The NFLPA also announced a $10,000 donation to the JJets Foundation following Jefferson’s selection as Community MVP. Since joining the Vikings in 2020, Jefferson has supported several community initiatives in Minnesota and his home state of Louisiana. The JJets Foundation has reached more than 1,500 children through programmes that include youth football camps, school laptop donations and holiday initiatives, according to the NFLPA.
The evening included bowling, games and a silent auction featuring sports memorabilia, including signed helmets, game-worn cleats and a Randy Moss jersey. The evening became even more memorable when Claire’s family won a football autographed by Jefferson through a raffle. The fundraiser included a silent auction featuring an LSU helmet, a Vikings helmet and Jefferson’s signed game-worn cleats. A signed Randy Moss jersey was among the other items available to bidders.
The wide receiver said he had seen pictures of the young fan wearing his jersey while undergoing cancer treatment and found it inspiring that she looked up to him. Angie Rolle, the organisation’s senior vice-president for partner engagement, told the Vikings that money raised through the event would support research breakthroughs, improved treatments and efforts to make care more affordable. Jefferson spent time talking with Claire, encouraging her and posing for photographs. The ACS works to advance cancer research, improve patient outcomes, advocate for people affected by the disease and help patients access care. Jefferson has also taken on the role of an American Cancer Society ambassador, helping raise awareness about cancer and the experiences of patients and survivors. The award recognises NFL players who make significant contributions to their communities away from the field.
Claire was diagnosed with Ewing sarcoma in 2023, according to the team’s report. She initially entered remission but experienced a relapse shortly before Christmas in 2025. Among the guests was Claire Van Epps, a young Vikings supporter whose cancer journey has been marked by remission and relapse. Claire is currently undergoing oral chemotherapy. Despite the challenges of treatment, the Vikings described her as a cheerful child who loves watching the team and was thrilled to meet her favourite player in person. The shoes were customised to reflect the children’s experiences, including Arthur’s name written in Braille. Jefferson also spent time with them at the Vikings’ training facility, where they received team merchandise and watched practice.