Los Angeles Dodgers First Baseman Freddie Freeman Donates $1 Million to CHOC for Saving His Son
Los Angeles Dodgers first baseman Freddie Freeman and his wife, Chelsea, have pledged a $1 million donation to the Children's Hospital of Orange County (CHOC), expressing deep gratitude for the care their son, Maximus, received during a life-threatening health crisis in
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A Life-Altering Diagnosis
In July 2024, the Freemans' then 3-year-old son, Maximus, was diagnosed with Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS), a rare autoimmune disorder where the immune system attacks the nerves. Maximus experienced rapid paralysis, losing the ability to walk, sit, or stand, and faced breathing difficulties. He was admitted to CHOC's pediatric intensive care unit (PICU), where he was placed on a ventilator and feeding tubes. After eight days of intensive treatment, Maximus began to recover and was eventually discharged, though his rehabilitation journey continued with physical therapy to relearn basic motor functions.
The Freemans' Response
Moved by the dedication of CHOC's medical staff, the Freemans decided to make a substantial contribution to support the hospital's mission. Freddie Freeman stated, "Seeing every room full in the PICU each and every day impacted Chelsea and I deeply. Getting to know the doctors, nurses, and care teams and seeing how they show up each day to bring healing and hope to kids and their families was inspiring. CHOC saved Maximus' life."
This donation is part of the Freemans' ongoing commitment to giving back. Previously, they funded the construction of a new baseball clubhouse at Freddie's alma mater, El Modena High School, and contributed $300,000 to support wildfire relief efforts through donations to the Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation, Pasadena Fire Department, and the Salvation Army.
A Symbol of Resilience
During Maximus's hospitalization, the Dodgers organization and fans rallied around the family. Players and staff wore "#MaxStrong" shirts to show their support. After his recovery, Maximus attended a Dodgers game in September 2024, marking his first public appearance since his illness. The event served as a testament to his resilience and the community's unwavering support.
The Freemans' generous donation aims to enhance CHOC's capacity to provide critical care to children facing serious health challenges, ensuring that other families receive the same level of compassionate and expert care that helped save their son's life.