In late 2014, professional gamer Michael “Flamesword” Chaves was able to fund the construction of GO Kart builds for hospitals in Chicago, Illinois and Newark, New Jersey. Flamesword (who had spent more than a year growing one of the most impressive beards in all of esports) was able to raise over $9,000 through a 24 hour gaming marathon and an incredible amount of support from his fan base, the Optic Gaming community.
Flamesword’s first GO Kart was delivered to Lurie Children’s Hospital, a facility funded almost entirely by community donations in the greater Chicago region. Local press from the Chicago Tribune were onsite during the cart’s delivery to speak with Flamesword and learn about the cart’s impact in the lives of hospitalized children. The full video interview can be found here.
Remembering his roots, Flamesword followed his Chicago dedication with a delivery to the Children’s Hospital of New Jersey at Newark Beth Israel Medical Center. While this was the second GO Kart constructed by Flamesword, it was the first we’ve delivered to a hospital in the state of New Jersey. More than 120 patient beds are designated for pediatric care inside the hospital, and they’re constantly filled. Staff told us the GO Kart would be a tremendous help to many of the kids who need access to activities away from their rooms.
A short video of the dedication can be found on Flamesword’s YouTube channel, located here.
Way to go, Flamesword!