Level Up for a Cause: Video Game Fundraiser Hits New High Score for Vernon Hospice!

Levi Myers set out with a simple goal: to raise $300 for the North Okanagan Hospice Society through a video game livestream. By the end of his stream on May 16, he was blown away to find he had raised over $3,000—more than ten times his original target.

Myers was grateful for the outpouring of support. “I never imagined this kind of response. Thank you to my wife, friends, family, and community for coming together,” he shared.

The fundraiser was personal for him. His mother, Betty Ann Blin, passed away from cancer in 2013, and he was deeply moved by the care she received at the Hospice House. “The compassionate care she got in her final days meant everything to us,” he recalled. “I wanted to honor her memory and support the amazing work they do.” The event also took place on Betty Ann’s birthday, adding even more significance.

Planning the stream was a bit of an adventure. “I had streamed a lot during COVID, so I still had my gear,” Myers said. Although he felt it could have been more polished, he was pleased with how it turned out. For 16 hours, he played games like *Slay the Spire*, *Celeste*, and *Fall Guys*, with friends joining him online.

One fun element was the “Wheel of Pain,” where viewers could donate $20 or more to spin the wheel. The options included eating something he disliked, doing push-ups, and even some zany challenges like doing shots of kombucha. After 5 p.m., the challenges took a more humorous turn.

By the three-and-a-half-hour mark, he had already surpassed his initial goal. Myers was visibly emotional as he thanked everyone. “I’ve got plans cooking for next year’s event—with more friends, a better setup, and new challenges,” he said, laughing.

This kind of community support isn’t just a one-time occurrence. According to a recent study from the *Institute for Philanthropy*, online fundraisers have surged by 43% since the pandemic began. People are increasingly turning to virtual events to raise money for causes close to their hearts. Myers’ event reflects this trend and shows how individual actions can lead to substantial impacts.

For those who want to relive the fun, you can check out the stream on Twitch.

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