Miles Scott, Former 'Batkid,' Returns To Illinois For Charity Event
Miles Scott, the leukemia survivor who captured hearts nationwide as "Batkid" in 2013, is trending today after returning to Illinois for a charity event supporting childhood cancer research. Now 16, Scott visited Chicago Children's Hospital on Friday to meet patients and announce a $250,000 donation from his foundation to pediatric oncology programs.
The event marks Scott's first major public appearance in Illinois since his Make-A-Wish fulfillment as a 5-year-old, when San Francisco transformed into Gotham City for his crime-fighting adventure. His story went viral in 2013, prompting over 20,000 volunteers to participate and generating global media coverage.
Scott's return coincides with National Pediatric Cancer Awareness Month, amplifying interest in his advocacy work. His family established the Batkid Foundation in 2015, which has since raised over $3 million for cancer research and family support services. The foundation's latest donation will fund experimental treatments at three Midwest hospitals.
Social media engagement spiked Saturday after Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson shared photos with Scott at the event, calling him "a real-life hero." The #BatkidLegacy hashtag has trended locally, with former Make-A-Wish volunteers and cancer survivors sharing memories of the original event.
Scott, now in remission for 11 years, told reporters he hopes to study pediatric medicine. "I want to help other kids like doctors helped me," he said during Friday's press conference. His appearance comes as Illinois lawmakers consider a bill to increase childhood cancer research funding, with advocates citing Scott's story as inspiration.
Hospital officials confirmed Scott spent Saturday visiting current patients in the same oncology ward where he received treatment. The emotional reunion was streamed live on the hospital's Facebook page, drawing over 50,000 viewers within hours.
Make-A-Wish Illinois CEO Stephanie Springs attended the weekend events, noting Scott's story continues to drive record wish applications statewide. "Miles showed the world how one child's courage can move thousands to action," she said. The organization reports a 37% increase in Illinois-based wishes granted since 2013.
