A group of Peyton Manning Children’s Hospital patient ambassadors will soon have their stories carried onto the racetrack as their handprints and signatures are featured on Andretti Global driver Marcus Ericsson’s IndyCar.
The initiative is part of an ongoing partnership between Marcus Ericsson, Andretti Global, Delaware Life and Peyton Manning Children’s Hospital focused on celebrating the strength, resilience and courage of children and families receiving care at the hospital.
Peyton Manning Children’s Hospital provides specialized pediatric care for children across Indiana and beyond, offering comprehensive services for patients with a wide range of medical needs. The hospital’s team of physicians, nurses and caregivers works alongside families to provide compassionate, personalized care while supporting children throughout their health care journeys.
As part of the hospital’s mission to recognize and empower its patients, Peyton Manning Children’s Hospital patient ambassadors share their experiences to inspire others, raise awareness and highlight the impact of pediatric care.
Earlier this year, Ericsson visited several patient ambassadors at Peyton Manning Children’s Hospital, where he spent time hearing their stories and learning more about their experiences. The children also designed custom hats for Ericsson to wear throughout the IndyCar season.
“Every weekend that I’ve had these special-made hats, it’s been very special, and I always say it gives me an extra couple of tenths a lap just having those kids with me in the car,” Ericsson said.
The relationship continued when several patient ambassadors visited Indianapolis Motor Speedway to spend time with Ericsson and create a lasting reminder of their connection. Each child placed a handprint and signature on artwork that will be incorporated into the rear wing of Ericsson’s car for the OnlyBulls Grand Prix of Portland in August.
“It’s really fun to start to get to know them a bit better and see how much they appreciate this initiative that Delaware Life and Peyton Manning Children’s Hospital is doing,” Ericsson said.
For seven-year-old patient ambassador Chloe, the opportunity represents a special milestone. Chloe was born with congenital kidney failure and later received a kidney transplant. She will have the chance to see her handprint on Ericsson’s car in person when she travels to Portland for the race with her kidney donor.
“All she talked about is, ‘I’m going to Portland. I’m going to see you in Portland,’” Ericsson said. “She seems super, super excited about it. Another cool thing with this initiative is being able to bring Chloe out to that race.”
Chloe’s father, Cody, said the family appreciates the time Ericsson has taken to connect with the patient ambassadors and recognize their journeys. Read more about the partnership and Chloe’s story in WISH-TV’s coverage.
Through partnerships like this, Peyton Manning Children’s Hospital continues to celebrate the strength and resilience of its patients while creating meaningful experiences that extend beyond the hospital walls. Learn more about the care provided at Peyton Manning Children’s Hospital.
