Peyton Hillis is a former NFL running back who was seriously injured when he bravely jumped into the ocean to save his kids from drowning. The kids were, fortunately, rescued and unharmed but Hillis almost drowned and ended up in the hospital in critical condition.
Hillis is now, finally, getting better and was able to release a statement on social media about his condition and how he’s feeling. In the statement, he said:
“I just wanted to come on here and thank everyone for all the prayers and love y’all have given me. It’s really made all the difference. I also want to thank my brave sister, mother, sister in law, my kids, and my girlfriend who has saved my life in more ways than one. Thank you to the amazing staff at the hospital. Baptist hospital in Pensacola. Y’all were truly amazing and took such great care of me. You made all the difference on my recovery.”
Continuing, Hillis then went on to say that he has not given any interviews about the incident because he both wants to keep his family out of the news and because the incident was a “very traumatic” incident for all involved. However, he added that he does want those who prayed for and supported him to know he’s thankful, so he said:
“But I did want to come on here and show my appreciation for everyone who helped save my life and for all of your prayers and love and support. I left the hospital with no worries and concerns and should make a 100% recovery. I’m a very lucky and blessed man. Yahweh has really blessed me and I am very thankful.”
Thank you for all your love and prayers🙏🏻 pic.twitter.com/VnrCmKWjlN
— Peyton Hillis (@thepeytonhillis) February 21, 2023
Commenting on the message, many people expressed their relief at his being okay while also trying to keep the mood light, saying things like “So glad to hear you’re ok! You’re a hero and still one of my favorite Browns RB’s of all time. I mean you’re no Chubb but… 😂 Wishing you a full and speedy recovery Mr Hillis!!”
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The last high profile statements came from Hillis’ uncle and his girlfriend from around the time he was taken off of a ventilator. At that time, his girlfriend said:
“A hero. So proud of this man and so incredibly grateful for family and this incredible hospital. Peyton is off the ventilator and is on the road to recovery. Please continue to pray for he’s still got a ways ahead of him, but thank you for all of your prayers and love and support thus far. It truly makes all the difference. Today was a good day.”
Similarly, his uncle said, after he was hospitalized after the rescue attempt “I just wanted to let everyone know on Razorback Nation that Peyton is doing better. He’s still in intensive care and having some problems with his kidneys and his lungs but the doctors say he is improving. I just wanted to head off any rumors that may be started. I’m sure he would want everyone to know that he appreciates all of the prayers be thrown up on his behalf!!!”