NFL Legend Larry Fitzgerald Announces Personal News

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Angelo Guinhawa | Last updated Nov 6, 2025 9:15 PM ET

Larry Fitzgerald may be long retired from the NFL, but the Arizona Cardinals legend continues to make an impact off the field.

Fitzgerald, who was drafted third overall by the Cardinals in 2004, had an incredible playing career in the NFL that spanned 17 years. He was an 11-time Pro Bowler and three-time All-Pro Team member.

The former star wideout led the league in receptions (2005 and 2016) and receiving touchdowns (2008 and 2009) twice in his career. With his body of work, he was selected as a member of the NFL 100th Anniversary All-Time Team.

It's worth noting that the former Arizona star also won the Walter Payton Man of Year award, along with Eli Manning, back in 2016. According to an NFL report, he was recognized for his philanthropic efforts, including being a spokesman for the American Cancer Society's Crucial Catch Campaign during Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

To this day, Fitzgerald remains active in breast cancer awareness through his non-profit organization, "The Larry Fitzgerald Foundation."

Former Arizona Cardinals wide receiver Larry Fitzgerald Jr. sits during an interview.Joel Angel Juarez/The Republic / USA TODAY NETWORK

Larry Fitzgerald Makes Personal Announcement

On Thursday, Fitzgerald got emotional as he shared the news that Banner Health's Breast Cancer Center has been renamed to "Carol Fitzgerald Breast Health Center" in honor of his late mother.

The move came after Fitzgerald's foundation donated $1 million to Banner Health to "support breast health services." According to 12 News, the donation will "provide financial assistance and help patients overcome barriers when it comes to care and also fund education on early detection."

"My mother never sought recognition or fanfare, but we always felt she deserved it," Fitzgerald wrote on Instagram. "The naming of this facility in her honor is a living testament to the life she led: one rooted in selfless love, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to serving others."

He added, "Every person who walks through the doors of the Carol Fitzgerald Breast Health Center will feel the same dignity, peace, and quality of care that she believed every human being deserves. This building doesn’t just bear her name; it carries her heart."

Fitzgerald also thanked his foundation, its partners and Banner Health for the tribute, showing appreciation for the "meaningful way" his mom was honored.

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The Larry Fitzgerald Foundation

Fitzgerald established his foundation in 2005 with the mission of "providing children with the tools they need to feel confident and supporting women, men and families affected by breast cancer."

Breast cancer awareness is deeply rooted in the foundation's mission because of Fitzgerald's mom, who passed away from the disease in 2003.

According to the foundation's website, Fitzgerald "has made it his mission to provide funding opportunities, resources, and services for women, men, and families impacted by breast cancer."

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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