Nothing beats the unveiling of a new Air Jordan & Nike Doernbecher Collection for sneakerheads. The Doernbecher (DBC) program was established in 2002 as an homage to Oregon children battling life-threatening illnesses. Nike designers collaborate with Doernbecher Hospital patients to make one-of-a-kind sneakers with some of the brand’s most iconic silhouettes. This year’s collection is set to release on April 30, 2022 and will commemorate the tenth anniversary of the partnership. Here’s the official introduction of each of the sneakers included in the 2022 Air Jordan & Nike Doernbecher Collection.
Zoe’s Nike Dunk Low Doernbecher Freestyle
When Zoe Taaffe was diagnosed with an autoimmune disease three years ago, she could have let it define her. But instead, she used it as motivation to pursue her dream of becoming a nurse. Despite the challenges she faces, Zoe has persevered, and today she is making her mark on the world by sharing her story and inspiring others to embrace their individuality. Her Dunk Low is a walking shout-out to her favorite collegiate team, and it features a glow-in-the-dark outsole and fun zebra print. Zoe hopes it will inspire you to embrace your individuality as much as she does. Thank you, Zoe, for reminding us that no matter what life throws our way, we always have the power to choose how we respond. You are one in a million—literally!
- Price:$100
- Release Date: 2022-04-30
- Style Code:DR7305-100
- Color: Multi
- Where To Buy: Nike US
- Buy it now on StockX, CLICK HERE
Maylee’s NikeCourt Zoom Vapor Cage 4 Doernbecher Freestyle
Maylee Phelps is a rising star in the world of wheelchair tennis. Currently ranked #2 in the United States, she is a force to be reckoned with on the court. But what sets Maylee apart from other athletes is her story of perseverance and determination. Born with spina bifida, a condition that affects the spinal cord and nervous system, Maylee has never let her disability stop her from achieving her goals. In fact, she has used it as motivation to push herself harder and design a shoe that inspires others to do the same. Her spin on the NikeCourt Zoom Vapor Cage 4 features her very own logo, a spine graphic to represent spina bifida, and a reminder to Keep Pushing no matter what life throws your way. With her amazing attitude and incredible talent, there is no doubt that Maylee Phelps is a role model for anyone facing adversity.
- Price:$150
- Release Date: 2022-04-30
- Style Code: DR6253-500
- Color: Multi
- Where To Buy: Nike US
Catalina’s Nike SB Zoom Stefan Janoski Doernbecher
Catalina Vazquez is a young girl with a big heart and an even bigger passion for life. Despite being diagnosed with VHL, a rare form of cancer that creates tumors throughout her body, she doesn’t let that get in the way of doing the things she loves. Whether it’s drawing, gardening, or working with horses, Catalina approaches each day with enthusiasm and joy. Her SB Zoom Stefan Janoski represents her love for nature and features words that fill her with hope: The cure is in our genes. With each step she takes, Catalina is reminded that there is always reason to keep moving forward. And with each smile she shares, she brings a little bit of light into the world.
- Price:$85
- Release Date: 2022-04-30
- Style Code:DR6258-100
- Color: Blue/White/ Black
- Where To Buy: Nike US
Cidni’s Nike Air Force 1 Fontanka Doernbecher
In 2018, Cidni O’Brien was in the middle of a youth soccer game when she suddenly collapsed. It was later discovered that she has a rare congenital heart condition, and she was quickly rushed to the hospital for surgery. Thanks to the skilled surgeons and medical staff, as well as the support of her family and friends, Cidni made a full recovery. Since then, she’s been determined to get back on the soccer field and continue playing the sport she loves. Her Air Force 1 Fontanka is a walking tribute to the Lebanon Warriors, her high school soccer squad. It also honors her beloved horse, Tank, her favorite dish (shrimp spaghetti), and the numerous heroes who assisted in her survival. Cidni is healthy and happy today, and she appreciates every day she gets to play soccer.
- Price:$120
- Release Date: 2022-04-30
- Style Code:DR6259-600
- Color: Multi
- Where To Buy: Nike US
Ayman’s Nike Blazer Mid ’77 Doernbecher
Everyone has a story, and everyone’s story has a beginning. For some, the beginning is marked by a moment of hardship or adversity, a challenge that must be overcome in order to achieve greatness. This is certainly the case for Ayman Wamala, who faced impossible odds growing up in Kenya. Ayman was diagnosed with sickle cell anemia at a young age, yet he has persevered and grown stronger as a result. His story of hope, strength, and perseverance is told through his new Blazer Mid ’77. The sneakers feature tiger stripes that glow bright blue in UV light, a nod to Ayman’s home country of Kenya. The words “hope,” “strength,” and “perseverance” are emblazoned on the shoes, serving as a reminder of the qualities that have helped Ayman overcome obstacles and become the successful man he is today. With these sneakers on his feet, Ayman is ready to take on whatever challenges come his way.
- Price:$100
- Release Date: 2022-04-30
- Style Code:DR6258-100
- Color: Black/ Purple/ Multi
- Where To Buy: Nike US
Sam David’s LeBron 19 Doernbecher
Sam David isn’t the type of kid who backs down from a fight. He was born with spina bifida, just like his sister and fellow Freestyle designer Maylee. However, that doesn’t stop him from being a force to be reckoned with both on and off the court. His ambition is to play for the United States men’s wheelchair basketball team, but in the meanwhile, he is honing his skills with the Portland WheelBlazers. Sam has already demonstrated that he is a gifted player, and with his hard work and determination, he will undoubtedly reach his goal. Sam’s take on the LeBron 19 brings the bling with metallic gold panels, lightning bolts, and his go-to mantra, Never Back Down. “I want to inspire people to never quit on their dreams,” he says. With his never-give-up attitude and undeniable talent, there’s no doubt that Phelps will achieve his goal of playing for the U.S. men’s team someday. In the meantime, he serves as an inspiration to all those who never back down from a challenge.
- Price:$200
- Release Date: 2022-04-30
- Style Code:DR6255-001
- Color: Black /Red/Gold
- Where To Buy: Nike US
Michael’s Air Jordan 5 Retro Low Doernbecher
When Spitfire was born, doctors diagnosed him with Krabbe disease, a rare genetic condition that destroys the protective coating of nerve cells in the brain and nervous system. But thanks to his big brother Marshall, Michael has beaten the odds. Marshall was also diagnosed with Krabbe disease. But because of his experience with the disease, doctors were able to catch it sooner in Michael. “My brother helped save my life,” Michael said. Sadly, Marshall passed away from Krabbe disease five years ago. But his legacy lives on in his little brother, who continues to fight the good fight every day. Michael’s Air Jordan 5 Retro Low shoes are a reflection of his fun and easy-going personality. His love for airplanes, sharks, and mac ‘n’ cheese is evident in the design of the shoe, and the interchangeable patches on the tongue allow him to express his own unique style. The “eject” loop on the heel tab is a symbol of his determination to pursue his dream of becoming a pilot, and the motto “Take Flight” serves as a reminder to never give up on your dreams. Despite all of the challenges he has faced in his life, Michael remains a happy kid with a positive outlook on life. He is an inspiration to us all, and his shoes are a representation of his journey.
- Price:$200
- Release Date: 2022-04-30
- Style Code:DR6287-486
- Color: Multi
- Where To Buy: Nike US
- Buy it now on StockX, CLICK HERE
