November 21st 2024.
It was December 2014 when Sean Payton's phone rang, disturbing the early hours of the day. He couldn't shake off the feeling of dread that settled in his stomach as he answered the call. He was on his way to Ochsner Hospital in New Orleans to present a game ball to 12-year-old Bailey Elizabeth Leon, a patient he had formed a special bond with during his previous visits. As a promise to her, he had assured that the Saints would defeat the Chicago Bears on Monday night and was returning with a gift.
As he glanced at the football sitting in the passenger seat, he knew something was wrong. The news hit him hard - Bailey had passed away from pediatric cancer. Devastated, Payton pulled over on the side of the road and immediately called his children. He couldn't shake off the feeling that he should have visited her sooner. Bailey was a tough and loyal fan, and Payton remembered attending her funeral and placing the football in her casket. It was a reminder of the fragility of life, especially for young children who are battling illness.
This experience had a profound impact on Payton and his wife Skylene, who was a former nurse. They were drawn to help, first in New Orleans and now in Colorado. In June, they asked to tour Children's Hospital of Colorado and were impressed by the work they do. After discussing ideas, they made a generous donation of $150,000 to help build a playground for the kids. This space would provide a chance for the children to be kids and for their families to take a break from the harsh realities of their illnesses.
Christy Dobson, the vice president of Children's Hospital, expressed her gratitude and shared that the playground would have adaptive swings, wheelchair accessibility, and possibly a rock-climbing wall. The hospital can now move forward with the project, and they hope to have it ready by spring of 2025. Payton was initially hesitant to discuss the donation, not wanting any attention, but he believes in the importance of giving back and finding balance in life.
Despite his tough and abrasive exterior on the sidelines and at Broncos headquarters, Payton has a warm heart. In his second year in Denver, he is becoming more involved in the community and is starting to understand the significance of the Broncos to the people of Colorado. His comfort level has grown, and his energy is evident from coaching a young and eager team. This was reinforced in June when he made the donation to Children's Hospital.
Payton has also made an effort to change the culture within the team, which has led to a better record and a strong connection with rookie quarterback Bo Nix. But his impact goes beyond the field. The city of Denver is becoming home to Payton and his wife, who have embraced the community and its people.
Kicker Wil Lutz, who has known Payton for nine years, shared that the coach is all business at the facility, but he wants to be a part of and contribute to the community. In New Orleans, Payton had a close relationship with the city, and he is now doing the same in Denver. He often invites patients from Children's Hospital to attend practices and encourages his players to make a connection with them. It is a humbling and eye-opening experience for the team, and it puts everything into perspective.
Payton's own experience a decade ago has taught him to never take anything for granted. His time with the children at Children's Hospital is a constant reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of giving back. These moments are cherished and treasured, and Payton hopes to continue making a positive impact on the community.
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