INDIANAPOLIS – Six-year-old Dwayne McKinley Jr. from Crane, Indiana, was a special guest at Peyton Manning’s 17th Annual Celebration of Caring Gala held at Gainbridge Fieldhouse Wednesday evening. Dwayne was recognized as the 2025 True Hero Award recipient for his incredible journey of resilience and recovery.
Last April, Dwayne was admitted to Peyton Manning Children’s Hospital with a severe case of flu and pneumonia. He was immediately placed on a life-saving treatment that temporarily supported his heart and lung function. For six weeks, Dwayne bravely fought for his life. He then transitioned to a ventilator and began a long and challenging recovery process.
Now, Dwayne is a healthy and happy kindergartner. His remarkable story was celebrated at the gala, which raised over $1.6 million to support Patient and Family Support Programs at Peyton Manning Children’s Hospital. Dwayne and his family joined host Peyton Manning and over 1,000 guests at the event.
The event featured a special Q&A session with Iowa Hawkeyes basketball star Caitlin Clark and former Colts teammate Dallas Clark as the live auctioneer. Multi-platinum country music artist Jon Pardi capped off the evening with a live concert.
Payton Manning with Caitlin Clark
Among the attendees were former Colts teammates Austin Collie and Anthony Gonzalez, Indiana Pacers player Tyrese Haliburton, Indiana Governor Mike Braun, and past and current patients and families of Peyton Manning Children’s Hospital. A highlight of the evening was the presence of 6-year-old Dwayne McKinley Jr. from Crane, Indiana, the 2025 True Hero award recipient. Dwayne’s inspiring story of recovery after a critical illness touched the hearts of all those present.
The funds raised will make a significant difference in the lives of young patients and their families, ensuring they receive the support and care they need during challenging times.
