Eagles Fly for Leukemia
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In 1971, Kim Hill, the daughter of Philadelphia Eagles tight end Fred Hill was diagnosed with leukemia. As Fred & his family dealt with the devastating blow to the family, his teammates and owner Leonard Tose pledged their emotional support.
As Fred continued to research Kim's leukemia, the support of Leonard Tose and the Philadelphia Eagles continued to inspire him. The Eagles held fundraising dinners, the team made individual contributions, and Fred and Kim continued to bravely battle this disease.
After Kim's successful treatment, Fred realized how powerful the spirit of solidarity that his teammates displayed truly was. Fred became committed to helping other families battle pediatric cancers. From helping them identify resources, to assisting financially, Fred & his teammates continued their fight against childhood cancers. In 1972, Philadelphia Eagles owner Leonard Tose officially recognized Eagles Fly for Leukemia as the official philanthropy of the Philadelphia Eagles Football Club.
The spirit of the Eagles and Leonard Tose led to the development of the world's first Ronald McDonald house- a place for families to find shelter when their children are sick. Now, over 200 Ronald McDonald house's shelter thousands of families around the world.
The spirit continued, and over the last 30 years, Eagles Fly for Leukemia has raised over $10 million towards pediatric cancer research and Family Support.
In 1991, Eagles Fly for Leukemia soared higher, and established themselves as a free-standing non-profit organization, outside of the Philadelphia Eagles Football Club. However, the spirit remains, as the team continues to support and encourage Eagles Fly for Leukemia initiatives.
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