Second Annual Peyton Manning Children’s Hospital Homecoming Celebration Brings Over 1,200 Patients, Families, and Community Partners to Lucas Oil Stadium

More than 1,200 Peyton Manning Children's Hospital (PMCH) patients, families, care team members, community partners, and volunteers gathered recently at Lucas Oil Stadium for the second annual Peyton Manning Children's Hospital Homecoming Celebration, hosted by Called to Care.

The event transformed the home of the Indianapolis Colts into an energetic celebration of childhood, sports, and community. Designed to provide current and former PMCH patients with the traditional excitement of a school homecoming-an experience many missed during extended hospital stays-the evening gave families a welcome chance to step away from clinical routines and focus on fun.

Throughout the stadium, guests took part in interactive games, shared meals, and enjoyed live entertainment. Athletes, mascots, and cheerleaders from both the Indianapolis Colts and Indiana Pacers circulated among attendees, creating memorable interactions with young patients and their families.

Emcees Larra Overton and Olivia West guided the evening's program, which featured a dynamic routine from the Pacers High Octane Drum Line, appearances by the Colts Cheer squad and Pacemates, and a special video greeting from Peyton Manning. Called to Care Founding Chair Katie Lucas joined Pacers representatives and PMCH leadership for a formal jersey check presentation, culminating in a Homecoming Court ceremony honoring PMCH patient ambassadors.

"Homecoming is a perfect example of our Mission to care for the whole person - body, mind and spirit," said Chad Dilley, President of Ascension St. Vincent Central Region. "We are grateful to Called to Care and our community partners for creating a night for our patients and their families to celebrate, have fun and feel supported outside of the hospital."

A dedicated Newborn Intensive Care Unit (NICU) Reunion took place during the event, offering a private setting for former NICU families and their care teams to reconnect, reflect on milestones, and celebrate their shared journeys.

"After everything I went through, being at Homecoming and getting to have fun with other kids who have been through their own challenges meant a lot to me," said Kennedi Chandler, PMCH patient and patient ambassador. "It was really special to celebrate how far I have come."

Organized by Called to Care-a women's Circle of Impact supporting Peyton Manning Children's Hospital through service, advocacy, and philanthropy-the annual Homecoming represents part of the group's ongoing mission to deliver uplifting experiences alongside vital resources. Since launching in 2024, Called to Care has directed more than $425,000 in impact grants toward hospital priorities.