Being the father of 4 children, Russell Wilson deeply knows the joys and sorrows of being a parent. He often posts photos with his children, calling them his biggest support system and bundle of happiness. On August 6, 2024, Russ showed his emotional side by posting an IG story for baseball player Freddie Freeman with #MaxStrong.

Let’s list out the complete timeline of Max’s illness. Almost 2 weeks ago, his wife, Chelsea, informed him about the worsening condition of their youngest son, Maximus aka Max. After a couple of tests, doctors concluded that Max was suffering from transient synovitis. But the condition deteriorated even after taking medicines. A 3-year-old kid was later diagnosed with a rare neurological illness called Guillain-Barré syndrome. He became emotional while talking about what happened next.

Paralysis reached his shoulders within 4 days, after which he was put on a ventilator. Seeing this was hard on him and while remembering that time, Freeman said, “I think a lot of us are parents in here, and seeing one of your kids with a ventilator, fighting, it was hard.” The family had to spend last week in the hospital, as Max was in the ICU. After returning home on Saturday, they started physical therapy. The doctors later assured the family that their son would make a complete recovery. Sharing this good news with his fans, he added, “He’s doing OK. He’s back, he’s Max. He’s doing good in that aspect.” And the support he received was overwhelming.

Andrew Friedman, president of baseball operations at Dodgers, clearly told him that he didn’t need top return till his son was fine. Coaches and players from several other teams also sent video messages of love and support to the Freeman family. When he returned to the field, fans and players were seen in #MaxStrong t-shirts to raise awareness about the illness. NFL great Russell Wilson has also extended his love.

Wilson has seen his fair share of emotional moments. He tries to give back to the community. Here are some examples.

Russell Wilson made an ailing child his goddaughter before she passed away

In 2015, an ill child named Ailynn admitted to Seattle Children’s Hospital shared a wish. She wanted the QB to be her godfather. Fulfilling the kid’s wish, he accepted her as his goddaughter. Sadly, a few hours later, Ailynn died, which made Russ quite emotional. He wrote, “My heart, thoughts, and prayers go out to my goddaughter, Ailynn, and her family, as she is now with our Heavenly Father.” This made his resolve for charity tougher.

Over these years, he has tried to give back to the community on various chances. In July 2024, on his 8th marriage anniversary, he and his wife, Ciara, visited the Seattle Seahawks hospital. The children and their families were happy upon seeing their hero.

Despite leaving the Seattle Seahawks in 2022, he is dedicated to helping as many people as he can. Fans still love him. Seeing his commitment to charitable causes, this love will hardly fade.