Los Angeles Dodgers star Freddie Freeman and his wife, Chelsea, have made a life-changing gift to the medical center that once saved their son’s life.
The couple is donating $1 million to the Children’s Hospital of Orange County, where their son, Maximus, received critical care during a medical crisis last year.
ESPN MLB insider Jeff Passan shared the heartwarming news, revealing that the donation is a deeply personal gesture of gratitude following their son’s harrowing health battle.
“Dodgers first baseman Freddie Freeman and his wife, Chelsea, are donating $1 million to the Children’s Hospital of Orange County, where their son, Maximus, recovered after a severe case of Guillain-Barré syndrome last year left him in the pediatric intensive-care unit for more than a week last year,” Passan posted on X.
In a statement to ESPN, Freeman reflected on the emotional impact the experience had on their family – and the immense appreciation they have for the hospital staff.
“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,” Freeman told ESPN.
Maximus was discharged from the hospital on August 4, 2024 – just in time to witness his dad help lead the Dodgers to a World Series title later that year.
Freeman’s connection to the hospital now runs deeper than ever, and his donation stands as both a thank-you and a lifeline for other families facing similar medical challenges.
While Freeman’s off-field generosity has captured hearts, his performance on the diamond remains nothing short of elite.
The 35-year-old first baseman is currently enjoying a red-hot start to the 2025 season, batting .361 through 43 games, with 57 hits, 9 home runs, 35 RBIs, and 30 runs scored.
Freeman leads the 33-21 Dodgers in average and remains a steady presence in the lineup – even while dealing with an ankle injury.
Despite recently revealing that he’s “not 100 percent,” Freeman continues to deliver at the plate.
His consistency has helped keep Los Angeles atop the National League West, and his All-Star-caliber numbers suggest a ninth career appearance at the Midsummer Classic should be on the horizon.
But for all of his accolades, Freeman’s most meaningful win this year might be off the field – helping other children receive the same care that saved his son’s life.
