Let’s go back to 1998. A few days before the draft, Peyton Manning asked the NFL for permission to train with the Colts earlier than scheduled. His request was denied, but he still showed up at the first training session and participated in memorizing the offensive playbook. Similarly, after being drafted, he made sure to learn the names of those working in the Colts' management. That’s how much he cared about the sport. He always planned and prepared for games several days in advance. But he also cherished Indianapolis beyond sports.
In 2003, he donated over $40 million to an Indianapolis hospital, which was renamed the Peyton Manning Children’s Hospital at Ascension St. Vincent in 2007. The hospital's goal is to provide full-service pediatric care. Since then, Manning has spent countless hours with patients, helping them through difficult times, and something similar happened once again.
In February 2025, the hospital successfully held its 17th Celebration of Caring gala. Manning took to Instagram and wrote:
"An unforgettable night at the 17th annual @peytonchildrens Celebration of Caring Gala! Thanks to the support of our incredible guests, we raised over $1.6 million for PMCH, helping to provide world-class care for the children who need it most. Special thanks to guest Caitlin Clark, our amazing auctioneer Dallas Clark, and the one and only Jon Pardi for bringing the energy. To the patients, caregivers, and generous donors who make this community so special—this night was for you."
Indeed, in December, the hospital's Instagram account shared photos from the Big Ten Championship at Lucas Oil Stadium. One featured two children, Ian and Madeline, PMCH ambassador patients, serving as honorary kid captains. Madeline represented Penn State, while Ian represented Oregon.
Interesting Fact:
After Hurricane Katrina (2005) devastated Manning’s hometown of New Orleans, he and his brother Eli helped the community by providing 13,600 kg (30,000 lbs) of relief supplies and personally delivering them to Louisiana. His efforts earned him the Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year Award in 2005.
Over the years, PMCH has provided care for children in need of emergency services, 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 champion surprised fans by teaming up with Caitlin Clark, a moment that resurfaced on Thursday.
On February 20, Caitlin Clark, another Indianapolis legend, joined PMCH’s charitable cause as an honorary guest. Dressed in an all-white suit, she joined the NFL legend for a one-on-one conversation. It was surreal. However, this wasn’t their first time teaming up for a charitable cause.
Clark had previously joined Manning in an advertisement for the hospital. In a 30-second commercial, Manning and Clark were seen pretending to be surgeons. While the former NFL player appeared busy performing a difficult heart surgery, Clark observed his struggle.
"Calm down, calm down," she advised him.
"I got this," Manning responded.
"I don’t think that’s right, Peyton."
"Being a heart surgeon is tough," Manning admitted.
"I know. The entire cardiac team at Ascension St. Vincent is highly skilled."
"They can do it all. Even the most complex heart surgeries."
At that moment, they decided to leave the difficult work to the professionals. When the camera zoomed out, viewers saw they were trying to operate on a stuffed teddy bear! According to Max Lewis from FOX29, the collaboration aired on local TV channels.
Interesting Fact:
Peyton Manning and his wife, Ashley, founded the PeyBack Foundation in 1999 during the NFL star’s second season in the league. The foundation’s mission is to support disadvantaged youth by facilitating programs that promote leadership and growth opportunities. Since its creation, it has donated millions of dollars.
"It’s called ‘PeyBack,’ which truly represents giving back for all the blessings in my life and all the support I’ve received throughout my journey," Manning said in 2012.
