Heartwarming News: Kentucky Wildcats Legend Valerie Still Melts Hearts with $14 Million Donation to Kentucky Children’s Hospital Medical Center for Pediatric and Children’s Care
In a powerful display of generosity and compassion, University of Kentucky basketball icon Valerie Still has donated $14 million to the Kentucky Children’s Hospital Medical Center. The historic contribution, announced at a press conference held Monday afternoon in Lexington, is earmarked to significantly expand pediatric and neonatal care services at the hospital, bringing hope and healing to thousands of children and families across the Commonwealth.
Still, known for her legendary achievements on the court as well as her lifelong dedication to community and family, said the gift was inspired by both her own experiences as a mother and her family’s legacy of resilience and service. “This is more than a donation—it’s a love letter to every child who deserves a fighting chance and to every parent praying for a miracle,” Still shared with tears in her eyes. “The children of Kentucky are our future, and I want them to know they’re not forgotten.”
The $14 million donation is one of the largest ever received by the Kentucky Children’s Hospital. Hospital officials confirmed that the funds will go directly toward constructing a new state-of-the-art pediatric intensive care unit (PICU), upgrading neonatal intensive care technology, and expanding outreach programs for underserved rural communities.
“We are humbled and overwhelmed by Valerie’s generosity,” said Dr. Angela Price, Chief of Pediatric Medicine. “Her contribution will quite literally save lives. It will allow us to provide cutting-edge care and reach more families who desperately need medical support.”
Still’s impact on Kentucky began in the 1980s when she became the all-time leading scorer and rebounder for UK Basketball—men’s or women’s—a record that still stands today. But her influence has long since extended off the court. She is a published author, motivational speaker, and passionate advocate for children, education, and social justice.
“I played basketball with my whole heart, but I always believed that our true greatness is measured by what we do for others,” Still said. “This donation is about legacy, love, and lifting others up.”
The announcement was met with widespread celebration across the Kentucky athletic community. Current UK athletes, coaches, and alumni took to social media to express their gratitude. Women’s basketball head coach Kyra Elzy called it “a legacy-defining moment from a woman who continues to inspire generations.” UK President Eli Capilouto praised Still for “redefining what it means to be a Wildcat for life.”
As part of the initiative, the hospital also announced that the new pediatric wing will be named the Valerie Still Center for Hope and Healing, a tribute to her extraordinary commitment to children’s health and well-being.
In an emotional moment that closed the press conference, a group of young patients presented Still with hand-drawn thank-you cards. As she knelt to hug each child, there wasn’t a dry eye in the room.
“Today,” said one mother in attendance, “Valerie Still gave Kentucky more than money—she gave us hope.”
