The Nike LeBron 13 “Doernbecher” designed by Kian Safholm is part of this year’s Nike Doernbecher Freestyle 2015 Collection that debuts this November 2015.
As his family and friends can attest, Kian has a good nature, a killer sense of humor and courage to spare. Two years ago, Kian was put to the test when a staph infection spread through his body and entered his heart, requiring three surgeries. After months of recovery, with the support of everyone around him, Kian is back to doing what he loves: playing basketball and cheering on the Cleveland Cavaliers.
Kian’s custom Nike LeBron 13 is a tribute to King James himself, who inspired Kian to remain courageous and keep up his fight.
Since Lebron is said to have the heart of a lion, Kian chose colors that represent sunrise on the savanna, where lions roam. Lebron’s signature makes an appearance, as does a stylized lion logo.
Kian also added details from his own life. He created his own family crest, which can be seen on the sockliner, celebrating the things he values most: faith, family, perseverance and, of course, basketball.
You’ll also find the words FOREVER GRATEFUL, which is Kian’s family’s motto. “Whenever we talk about my experience, my dad says he’ll be forever grateful to the Doernbecher team for saving my life,” explains Kian.
“This medical journey has taught me that it’s possible to have a good ending to a bad beginning,” he continues. “Even though I was really sick, my family and I never gave up fighting. With faith, love and a whole lot of perseverance, you can get through anything.”
Kian already has big plans for the coming years; he wants to become a professional basketball player for — you guessed it — the Cleveland Cavs. “Maybe Lebron will be the coach by then,” Kian says with a grin.
Kian’s biggest wish for his Doernbecher Freestyle shoe would be to see them on the athlete they were created for. Plus, he is excited about all the good his sneaker will do for other young patients.
“There’s a lot of kids fighting at Doernbecher right now and they need all the help they can get,” he declares. “Being able to do something for them makes me feel really good inside.”
Nike LeBron 13 Doernbecher 2015 Release Date
The Nike LeBron 13 “Doernbecher” will be available in mens and gradeschool sizes beginning Sunday, November 21st at select Nike retail stores, with all proceeds from the sales of the entire collection benefitting OHSU Doernbecher. The retail price tag is set at $200 USD.
Nike LeBron 13 “Doernbecher”
838989-805
November 21, 2015
$200
UPDATE: Here are the official images of the Nike LeBron 13 “Doernbecher” that is set to release on November 21st, 2015 alongside the rest of the collection on Nike.com.
Kian Safholm, 11
