'True Heroes!': Cowboys' Troy, Dak Introduce Pediatric Cancer Patients

Dallas Cowboys quarterbacks Troy Aikman and Dak Prescott introduced 23 pediatric cancer patients who will model during the upcoming Children’s Cancer Fund Gala.

DALLAS - Hall of Fame quarterback Troy Aikman and 2023 NFL Man of the Year Dak Prescott are teaming up this spring for the Children’s Cancer Fund Gala, aiming to raise $2 million for pediatric cancer research and care.

It is rare that Aikman and Prescott - Dallas Cowboys' quarterback past and present - are not the star of the show. But this week the two Cowboys introduced 23 pediatric cancer patients who will model during the fashion show portion of the upcoming "Knight To Remember" Gala.

The supermodels, ranging in ages from 5-17, will walk the runway showcasing their bravery, escorted by celebrities.

On Monday afternoon, one by one, each child was called up to the stage at the Galleria Mall in Dallas and embraced by the quarterbacks. The teary-eyed crowd cheered for the courageous children, who beamed when meeting Aikman and Prescott, who just announced the birth of his own daughter "MJ."

"It's the best thing I do all year, it really is," said Aikman after the program. "What these kids have been through, what these parents have been through, it certainly pulls on your heart strings."

It's Prescott's second year serving as part of Roger Staubach’s “Quarterbacks for a Cure” program, while Aikman will be making his 25th consecutive appearance.

Prescott and Aikman, Children's Cancer Fun

"I have the passion to beat cancer. Makes this one special, to share my story and give hope and bring a smile to some of the kids' faces," Prescott said. "I don't know if they understand how inspiring they are to me. They are the true heroes."

Sports stars, celebrities and generous philanthropists will band together for 34th year for the nonprofit’s signature fundraiser at the Hilton Anatole Dallas on April 19. The event promises an evening of hope and inspiration. 

Last year, former Dallas Cowboys running back Ezekiel Elliott strutted with one cancer patient, Robert Rodriguez, and the two struck the 'feed me' pose at the end of the runway. 

'I Feel Attacked!': Cowboys' Dak Reacts to 'Culture' Criticism

Children’s Cancer Fund was founded in 1982 by a coalition of parents whose children were receiving cancer therapy at Children’s HealthSM. Each year, CCF raises millions of dollars for pediatric cancer research and Child Life services, creating four additional endowments for Children’s Health. 

One of the nation’s leading fundraising groups supporting childhood cancers, CCF has donated $13 million to fund pediatric cancer research and treatment programs.

---