World of Warcraft community host in-game memorial and fundraiser on behalf of Gareth Allan Hjort

Today we remember Gareth Allan Hjort, known to his friends in the World of Warcraft community as Garborg. Gareth had been battling pancreatic cancer, and sadly passed away on September 16th, 2024.

Those who knew him from their travels in Azeroth, members of Honorbound, Voodoo, Putrid Friends, and Wicked and Sworn, came together to honor the memory of their fallen comrade. Together, they raised money for a charity on his behalf.

Safe In Our World has received that donation, and we’re all so grateful for the support of this wonderful community. Each of our team has been moved by this act of kindness and solidarity among friends.

On this community post, a player puts it poignantly: “He was a brave Beast Master Hunter, but one final boss, disguised as pancreatic cancer, remained invincible.”

The World of Warcraft community held an in-game memorial to celebrate Gareth’s memory, riding together on his final journey from Orgrimmar, while sharing stories and moments they’d had with Garborg.

Image from Wowhead

We are so honoured, and deeply moved, by this donation on Gareth’s behalf. Seeing online communities come together to create something so special, like this event, is the motivator behind so much of what we aim to do.

Games offer a unique kind of support to the players that engage with them, and in this case, WoW offered players a space to grieve and to celebrate, in a way that is deeply personal to the community around Garborg.

Donations like Gareth’s allow us to continue our vital work in the games industry, connecting people with life-saving resources and support, and fostering a welcoming and inclusive culture among fellow gamers.

There’s so much research suggesting that community play can give people a sense of belonging, strengthening bonds between friends, and in this case, Gareth’s community in World of Warcraft proves the power of play in shaping lifelong friendships.

Thank you to the members of Honorbound, Voodoo, Putrid Friends, Wicked and Sworn, and to Gareth Allan Hjort – a brave beast master hunter we shall never forget.