Let us go back to 1998. Just days before the draft, Peyton Manning petitioned that the NFL allow him to practice with the Colts early. He was denied but when he still arrived at the first practice session and took part in memorizing the offensive playbook.
Similarly, after being drafted, he made sure to learn the names of those who worked in the Colts’ front office. That’s how much he cared about the sport. He would always plan and prepare for games days in advance. But he also cherished Indianapolis beyond sports.
In 2003, he donated more than $40 million to a hospital in Indianapolis, which was named the Peyton Manning Children’s Hospital at Ascension St. Vincent in 2007.
The hospital aims to lend support as a full-service pediatric hospital. Since then, Manning has spent countless hours with patients, helping them through tough times and something similar happened once again.
February 2025 witnessed the hospital have a successful 17th Celebration of Caring gala. Manning took to Instagram and wrote:
“An unforgettable night at the 17th Annual @peytonchildrens Celebration of Caring Gala! With the support of our incredible guests, we raised over $1.6 million for PMCH, helping provide world-class care for kids who need it most. Thank you to special guest Caitlin Clark, our amazing live auctioneer Dallas Clark, and the one and only Jon Pardi for bringing the energy. To the patients, care team members, and generous donors who make this community so special—this night was for you.”
In fact, in December, the hospital’s Instagram account shared photos from the Big Ten Championship at Lucas Oil Stadium. One photo featured two children, Ian and Madeline, patient ambassadors of PMCH, serving as honorary kid captains. Madeline represented Penn State, whereas Ian represented Oregon.
Interesting Fact: After Hurricane Katrina (2005) destroyed Manning’s hometown of New Orleans, he along with his brother Eli, helped the community with 30,000 pounds of relief supplies and flew to Louisiana to deliver it. His efforts were recognized by awarding him the NFL’s Walter Payton Man of the Year Award in 2005.
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Over the years, PMCH has provided care for children in need of emergency treatment, blood disease management, orthopedic procedures, and more. Peyton Manning has also enlisted other superstars to support the cause, leveraging his fame to make an impact. Just a few days ago, the Super Bowl winner surprised fans by teaming up with Caitlin Clark—a moment that resurfaced again on Thursday.
Peyton Manning and Caitlin Clark shine for Indianapolis!
On February 20, Caitlin Clark was another Indianapolis legend who joined the charitable cause for the PMCH as the chief guest. Dressed in an all-white suit, she joined the NFL legend for a one-on-one chat. It was surreal. However, this is the first time they came together for a charitable cause.
Clark earlier joined him in an advertisement for the hospital. In a 30-second commercial, Manning and Clark were seen imitating surgeons. While the former NFL player looked like he was occupied in a difficult heart surgery, Clark was looking at his struggle. “Steady, steady,” she advised him. “I got this,” responded Manning.
“I don’t think that’s right, Peyton.”
“Being a heart surgeon is tough,” Manning confessed.
“I know. The whole cardiac team as Ascension St. Vincent is so skilled.”
“They can do it all. Even the most complex heart surgeries.”
via Imago
That’s when they decided to leave the tough job to the professionals. When the camera zoomed out, viewers saw they were trying to operate on a teddy bear! As per FOX29’s Max Lewis, the collaboration has been airing on local TV stations.
Interesting Fact: Peyton Manning and his wife, Ashley, founded the PeyBack Foundation in 1999. This was during the former NFL player’s second season in the league. The PeyBack Foundation’s aim has been to help disadvantaged youth by facilitating programs that can boost their leadership and growth opportunities. Since its birth, the foundation has donated millions. “It’s appropriately named ‘PeyBack,’ really paying back for all of the blessings in my life and all of the support I’ve had throughout my lifetime,” Peyton said back in 2012.
What do you think about the collaboration between Clark and Manning? Let us know in the comments below.