Placed on a Ventilator for Two Weeks, Browns RB Peyton Hillis Admits His Lungs Are Not Okay After Rescuing His Son and Niece From Deadly Tragedy

Former running back of the New York Giants, Peyton Hillis, exemplifies true heroism. He exhibited bravery and resilience during the most challenging moment of his life, heroically saving his own son and niece. It has been five months since the tragedy struck on a beach in Florida. And, Hillis claimed it was a “100% miracle” that everyone came out alive from the ordeal.

The former running back recently appeared on an ABC News program and revealed how the incident unfolded. He also discussed the physical difficulties he encountered in the aftermath of the near tragedy.

Peyton Hillis had to choose between his own son and niece

Hillis revealed that it was his mother who informed him that his son, Ori, and niece Camilla were drowning. He had to make a quick decision, and he chose to jump in the water himself, as there were no lifeguards around. He further added that the rip current was so strong that Hillis had to rescue his niece first, as she was stuck farther away from his son, and she wouldn’t have made it if the former running back wasted any more time. Therefore, he had to choose between his son and niece.

Hillis successfully managed to rescue both his son and niece but, he was badly injured in the process. The former running back was placed on a ventilator and also had to spend two weeks in the ICU. He also disclosed in the interview that the doctors delivered the news that it would take a whole year for him to reach full recovery.

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The former RB further added, “I don’t think my lungs will ever get back to where they needed to be,” indicating that his lungs haven’t fully recovered yet, and may never reach their previous state.

Where does his health stand now?

In the video posted by ABC News, a video from the dispatched officer’s body cam shows the 37-year-old father of three lying on the beach with medical personnel around him. The police officer is also seen going to one of Hillis’ daughters and informing her that her father is breathing and everything will be okay. Soon after, the RB was airlifted to the Pensacola baptist hospital for further treatment.

Hillis further revealed in the interview that he could hear the hospital personnel talking when he was unconscious, which had made him more worried about his recovery, as they weren’t sure about the running back’s recovery. He also added then when gained consciousness, he could not move his body, which was very traumatic for him, and added his mental strength has weakened after the accident. However, the 37-year-old RB said that his family has helped him gain more confidence, and he’s slowly recovering day by day. It took a few months, but Hillis is back on his feet, and it’s safe to say that he will return to his former self very soon.

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