Photos are copyrighted by Chicago Bears or AP/Wide World Photos and are used with permission. "He was the best football player I've ever seen. It's sad to me because he had a lot greater impact on me than I had on him. And he led by example on the field. He was the complete player. He did everything. He was the greatest runner, but he was also probably the best blocking back you ever saw." (AP)

Mike Ditka

About the Fund

The Walter Payton Cancer Fund was created by the Payton family to honor Walter’s life. After witnessing the ravaging effects of cancer on her husband, Connie Payton was determined to direct new research funding toward researchers seeking a cure with the same grit and determination that Walter showed on the football field as well as during his battle with cancer.

Connie chose Gateway for Cancer Research to administer the Walter Payton Cancer Fund. Its mission is to cure cancer through funding innovative research that has an immediate impact on cancer patients. As a special fund of Gateway for Cancer Research, 100% of every dollar donated to the Walter Payton Cancer Fund goes toward cancer research programs.