#United States #Philadelphia #Saquon Barkley #CHOP #I Heart CHOP

Children's Hospital of Philadelphia Introduces I Heart CHOP Event

The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) has officially launched its inaugural fundraising event, the I Heart CHOP Run, Walk & Virtual Challenge. This initiative aims to unite community members and supporters to generate crucial funding for areas in need within the hospital. Taking place on April 26, 2026, at FDR Park in South Philadelphia, the event will feature a 5K run and a 3K family fun walk. Additionally, participants who cannot attend in person can join a month-long virtual challenge starting in May, allowing friends and family from around the globe to contribute to the mission of bettering the lives of pediatric patients.

The event has gained an influential supporter: Saquon Barkley, the renowned running back for the Philadelphia Eagles, has stepped in as the official champion for the event. Barkley expressed his excitement about partnering with CHOP, stating, "There's nothing more important to me than giving kids the chance to be kids. CHOP is doing phenomenal things to support families when they need it the most." His involvement is anticipated to inspire community members to come together, share the hope of supporting children in need, and generously donate.

The organization recently shared touching highlights of a ‘draft’ event, revealing that CHOP patients collectively selected Barkley as their number one pick to serve as the event champion. This unique selection process showcases the special bond between patients and the hospital while underscoring Barkley’s commitment to pediatric care and support.

Participants in the I Heart CHOP event will have the opportunity to form teams and raise funds dedicated to particular areas of the hospital that resonate with them personally. The funds generated will empower CHOP’s mission in several critical ways, such as:

• - Fostering creativity and play within healthcare settings with tailored events, activities, and familial support.
• - Educating and training the next generation of pediatric healthcare professionals.
• - Supporting pioneering research by allocating necessary resources and personnel.
• - Promoting healthier, safer communities through educational and outreach initiatives.

Monica Taylor Lotty, Executive Vice President and Chief Development Officer at CHOP, expressed gratitude for the initiative, saying, "This special event is for everyone who has a reason to 'heart' CHOP—because your child was cared for here, or you believe that sick children deserve champions in their corner." The participation and donations gathered from the event will create lasting differences for children and their families.

Philadelphia Insurance Companies (PHLY) will serve as the lead sponsor for the I Heart CHOP Run, Walk & Virtual Challenge. For over two decades, PHLY has actively supported CHOP events, contributing over $2 million to various initiatives. This partnership not only underscores PHLY's commitment to families in the community but also highlights the integral relationship between fundraising and quality pediatric care.

John Glomb, President and CEO at Philadelphia Insurance Companies, commented, "We are proud to be the lead sponsor for this event… We could not be more excited to expand our passionate support by helping to raise funds for CHOP's life-changing mission."

For further details about the upcoming I Heart CHOP Run, Walk & Virtual Challenge and how you can get involved, please visit iheart.chop.edu. Join in and stand with CHOP to support the health and well-being of children today.

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About Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia

Founded in 1855, the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia is the first pediatric hospital in the United States. It is dedicated to providing exceptional care, training the next generation of healthcare professionals, and conducting groundbreaking research. With a vast network of more than 50 primary care practices and specialized centers across Pennsylvania and New Jersey, CHOP strives to deliver advanced care close to home while continuously working towards improvements that benefit children globally. For more information, visit www.chop.edu.