“Very Traumatic Time”: Peyton Hillis Revisits Dark Days Where He Feared Death

Former Cleveland Browns and Arkansas running back Peyton Hillis is out of the hospital after his heroics a month ago. Hillis saved his children and two strangers from drowning in the Gulf of Mexico while putting his own life in jeopardy. And after recovering, Hillis left a message to thank the fans for their prayers and support.

Hillis was in the hospital for over two weeks, suffering from lung and kidney complications after the Florida swimming accident. After the incident, Peyton was rushed to the hospital in a helicopter and the quick emergency response played a vital part in his survival.

Peyton Hillis sends the first message after the accident

Hillis was the hero in the January 4 Pensacola swimming accident. According to the Escambia County emergency services, Peyton saved two children and two adults after observing their struggle. However, officials didn’t disclose Peyton’s identity when paramedics rushed him to Pensacola’s Baptist Hospital. It was Hillis’ girlfriend Angela Cole, who informed the fans via a Facebook post that the NFL running back was in critical condition and had to be put on a ventilator for a few days.

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Fortunately, now Hillis is safe and out of the hospital now. And he sent out a long and heartfelt message to his fans on Twitter. “I haven’t taken any interviews on this because I’d like to keep my family out of the public eye because it was a very traumatic time for us. But I did want to come on here and show my appreciation to 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,” Hillis wrote to the fans’ relief.

Many fans took to the comment section to laud Hillis for his bravery and selfless nature. Here are a few such reactions:

Peyton’s alma matter must be super proud

The Arkansas Razorbacks sent their wishes, and the Denver Broncos are equally proud. Denver drafted the RB in 2008, and Peyton spent the next two seasons with the Orange Crush. Besides the Broncos, Peyton Hillis also played for the Kansas City Chiefs and the New York Giants.

The 37-year-old Peyton Hillis finished his NFL career in 2014 with the Big Blue in New York. However, Hillis’ peak definitely came around the 2010 season when he was with the Cleveland Browns. Peyton recorded 1177 rushing yards in 2010 along with 11 touchdowns, followed by 587 yards in 2011.

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Unfortunately, Hillis didn’t make the Pro Bowl that year despite these massive numbers. However, he got his compensation when Madden NFL 2012 used Peyton as the cover athlete. And after his Florida heroics, fans might yet see him on future versions of the video game.