Russell Wilson, the acclaimed football player, and his wife, Grammy-winning artist Ciara, have made a significant philanthropic contribution to the Mount Sinai Kravis Children’s Hospital, donating $3 million to support its pediatric programs. This substantial gift concludes a year of extensive charitable endeavors spearheaded by Wilson’s Why Not You Foundation, which he established in 2014.

The announced donation, revealed on a Good Morning America segment, is specifically allocated to enhance the hospital’s common area, providing a therapeutic and creative space for young patients to find respite from treatments and medical routines. Additionally, part of the funds will support the children's holiday shop, aiming to bring joy during the festive season.

Wilson's commitment to children’s hospitals stems from deeply personal experiences. He shared with GMA that his father’s battle with diabetes often kept him hospitalized, while his mother worked as an ER nurse. These formative experiences instilled in him a profound desire to make a difference. Wilson recounted his approach to hospital visits, stating, “Every time I walk in a room, I’m praying for a miracle, something great to happen. And I’ve seen those miracles happen time and time again.”

The 'Why Not You?' mantra, a guiding principle in Wilson’s life, originated from his father, who frequently posed the question: “Son, why not you?” This phrase became the namesake for his foundation, as both Wilson and Ciara's parents instilled a similar attitude of empowerment and ambition in them. The foundation’s broad mission focuses on championing education, children’s health, and the fight against poverty.

Just six weeks before the Mount Sinai announcement, Wilson revealed on Instagram that the Why Not You Foundation had successfully raised over $21 million, benefiting its diverse programs. These efforts also extended support to The V Foundation for Cancer Research. Ciara, an active participant in the foundation’s work, has also demonstrated her independent philanthropic spirit, recently pledging $2 million at an event at St. Peter’s Church in Atlanta to combat food insecurity.

Reflecting on the impact he hopes to achieve with the donation, Wilson expressed his desire for the children to “be inspired” and to momentarily shift their focus “off of the pain they’re going through.” He emphasized the profound personal fulfillment derived from these efforts, stating, “It’s probably been the greatest thing I’ve been able to do in my career so far. It’s better than any touchdown or any trophy.”