CHOP Teams Up With Saquon Barkley for Charity Run, Walk

The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) has announced it is partnering with Philadelphia Eagles running back Saquon Barkley as the official champion of their Run, Walk & Virtual Challenge.

Along with CHOP, Barkley will help bring the community together for the inaugural event on April 26, 2026, at FDR Park in South Philadelphia. The event will include a 5K Run and a 3K Family Fun Walk. For individuals who want to participate remotely, CHOP will continue throughout May with a month-long virtual challenge allowing family and friends from all over the world to demonstrate their support for CHOP.

CHOP shared a special video (below) of the "draft" in which patients unanimously chose Barkley as their No. 1 choice to serve as the official champion.

"There's nothing more important to me than giving kids the chance to be kids. CHOP is doing phenomenal things to support families when they need it the most, and I'm excited to be a part of that mission, which hits home," Barkley said in a news release. "I'm honored to stand with them as the Official Champion for the inaugural event. I hope I can inspire others in the community to come together to raise vital funds for CHOP, share hope, and make a meaningful impact."

Philadelphia Insurance Companies will present the I Heart CHOP Run, Walk, & Virtual Challenge. This event aims to connect thousands of corporate partners, families, patients, and members of the CHOP community to raise critical funds for CHOP and impact the lives of children and their families. 

More information about the I Heart Chop Run, Walk, & Virtual Challenge is available on the event's website.