Stefan Wilson Brings Smiles Aplenty to Kids at Peyton Manning St. Vincent Hospital

Doctors and caregivers alike laud Racing For Kids’ celebrity race driver hospital visits as a critical component in their patients’ recovery therapy. Stefan Wilson’s pit stop at Indy’s Peyton Manning St. Vincent Children’s Hospital today (Wednesday) was a good example of that effect.
The lanky Verizon INDYCAR racer’s friendly and engaging manner was just what several dozen St. Vincent youngsters needed as they battle challenging infirmities. The excitement of the upcoming Grand Prix of Indy and The 101st running of The Indy 500 were foremost in their minds.

Moving from room to room the affable Brit talked about races, his love of racing, his racing career and the mind blowing speeds Indy Cars achieve at The Indianapolis Motor Speedway.
There were plenty of smiles, laughs and an occasional giggle as Wilson signed his “Hero Cards” and bright red Racing For Kids baseball caps for the young patients, their siblings and occasionally Mom, Dad, and even Grandpa.
More than a few parents thanked Wilson for spending time with their child to which he replied: “I get as much or more out of these visits than they do.”

Prior to his visit Wilson joined Racing For Kids Executive Director, Pat Wríght, in presenting an IV-friendly “Fregin’s Flyer” Red Wagon to Peyton Manning St. Vincent Children’s Hospital President, Dr. Hossain M. Marandi. These special conveyances enable bed-ridden patients to travel easily around the hospital with their often cumbersome IVs. The wagons are named after Canadian Philanthropist Doug Fregin who is underwriting the Racing For Kids wagon program. One hospital Child Life Specialist assured Wilson: “We will be that putting that wagon to good use as soon as you leave.”