Donations Towards Colon Cancer Increased Threefold After Chadwick Boseman’s Passing

King T’Challa is still playing hero, even after his death.

Chadwick Boseman’s death continues to ripple across the entertainment industry. Celebrities have paid tribute to the Black Panther actor both online and at physical events, such as at the recent VMAs, where Keke Palmer said, “he’s a true hero, not just on screen, but everything he did. His impact lives forever.”

That’s certainly true, and in more ways than one.

The actor’s success felt like the start of a more inclusive Hollywood. He was a trailblazer in the superhero universe, best known for his groundbreaking portrayal of King T’Challa, beginning in 2016’s Captain America: Civil War, and for four more movies, notably Marvel’s blockbuster hit Black Panther.

And even in his death he continues to inspire others, this time, through the ongoing fight against colon cancer, which he battled with for four years before his death.

Several leading organisations focused on beating colorectal cancer have said that Boseman’s death has brought about a huge increase in awareness, donations and love for those dealing with it.

Cindy Borassi, the interim president for the Colon Cancer Foundation, pointed out that donations to her organisation have increased since 300 per cent since news of his death broke out last friday, according to a report by TMZ.

“As CRC incidence rates among young people increase, it's of the utmost importance that we fight even harder for our mission, so that one day we won't lose anymore superheroes to this awful disease. We encourage you to spread awareness, educate yourself on the symptoms, learn your family history, and get screened,” the foundation said in an Instagram statement following Boseman’s death.

The president of Fight Colorectal Cancer, Anjee Davis, said that the organization received many donations and media coverage, and an outpouring of social media engagement and support. The money raised by the organisation will go towards research and better treatment options for Colon cancer.

Michael Sapienza, the CEO of Colorectal Cancer Alliance, similarly said the death of the actor brought a radical change in how people see the disease. Though the actor was private about his battle with colon cancer, it has encouraged the public to be more open about discussing colon cancer, shedding the stigma against the disease.

Davis states she hopes that this heightened awareness will push people to get early screenings, look into their family history of cancer, and be on alert for signs and symptoms.