My Journey with Extra Life: Healing Kids Through Gaming
The Beginning of a Lifelong Commitment
In 2012, I embarked on a journey that would combine my passion for gaming with a cause close to my heart. When I first heard about Extra Life, the concept immediately resonated with me. The idea of using gaming to raise funds for children's hospitals was both innovative and impactful. With absolutely no experience, I began streaming games on Twitch under the name Cat Girl Gamer. Every year I have dedicated my efforts to raising money for Nicholas Children's Hospital through Extra Life. What started as a hobby has transformed into a lifelong mission to make a difference in the lives of children in need.
Collaborations and Community Support
Over the years, I've had the privilege of collaborating with incredible individuals and groups who share the same passion for gaming and philanthropy. Notable collaborations include working with S15Costuming, AMPdUzi, Ki2Life, and FJZB2. Each of these partnerships has brought unique energy and creativity to our fundraising efforts, helping to amplify our reach and impact.
Milestones and Achievements
Total Raised for 2025
Celebrating 14 Years of Impact
Celebrating 14 Years of Impact
Through the efforts of thousands of gamers we have raised over $13.5 million in 2025 to help kids at CMN's 170 hospitals.
Celebrating 14 Years of Impact
Celebrating 14 Years of Impact
Celebrating 14 Years of Impact
This year marks my 14th year with Extra Life. Reflecting on this journey, I am filled with gratitude for the opportunities to make a difference and the community that has supported me along the way. Gaming has always been a source of joy for me, and being able to channel that joy into healing and helping others is incredibly fulfilling.
2026 Guild Leadership
For 2026, I’m honored to share that I’ve been selected as Co-Chair for game week for this year’s Extra Life event alongside Ki2Life! Extra Life has been an incredible part of my life for many years, and it’s a privilege to help lead a week dedicated to bringing the gaming community together to support kids and families at Nicklaus Children's Hospital. I’m excited to work with Ki2Life and the rest of our amazing team to help make this year’s game week bigger, louder, and more impactful than ever. Let’s play games, have fun, and change kids’ health together!
Tabletop Gaming Outside the Box
In 2022, I took my involvement with Extra Life to the next level by co-creating and running a tabletop festival called Saving Throw. This event was hosted in Second Life and aimed to raise awareness of in world tabletop gaming while also generating funds for Extra Life's Tabletop Appreciation Month. The festival was a resounding success raising $900 for CMN Hospitals, bringing together tabletop enthusiasts from all over and further showcasing the power of gaming for good.