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Former NFL running back Peyton Hillis revealed Tuesday via social media that he’s expected to make a full recovery after saving his two children from drowning at a beach in Pensacola, Florida, last month.
Hillis tweeted a thank you to everyone, including his medical team, for their support in his recovery:
Peyton Hillis @thepeytonhillis
Thank you for all your love and prayers🙏🏻 pic.twitter.com/VnrCmKWjlN
Hillis, who was trying to save his children, was involved in a water rescue off the Pensacola coast on Jan. 4 and transported by helicopter to the hospital, where he was admitted to the ICU and placed on a ventilator and was suffering from issues with his kidneys.
The 37-year-old spent more than two weeks recovering at the hospital. Hillis’ girlfriend, Angela Cole, announced via Instagram on Jan. 20 that he had been released from the hospital.
Hillis was selected by the Denver Broncos in the seventh round of the 2008 NFL draft out of Arkansas. He spent two seasons with the Broncos before joining the Cleveland Browns in 2010.
Hillis put together the best season of his career in 2010, rushing for 1,177 yards and 11 touchdowns in 16 games. He also caught 61 passes for 477 yards and two scores.
After the 2011 season, Hillis joined the Kansas City Chiefs for the 2012 campaign. He ended his career with the New York Giants from 2013-2014.
In 81 career games, Hillis rushed for 2,832 yards and 23 touchdowns.