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Jim Kelly Recovers, Cuts Ribbon for Bills' 2026 Opener

6/25/2026

30 5 Full Breakdown

Summary

Jim Kelly Recovers

Hall of Fame quarterback Jim Kelly said he is recovering from a spring stroke and feels really good at the Highmark Stadium ribbon-cutting ceremony in Orchard Park.
He spent several days in the hospital, with scans clean.
He noted poor eyesight, hearing issues, and surgeries from 2013-2018 for oral and sinus cancers.
He looks forward to the Bills’ first home game at the stadium on Sept. 17, 2026, against the Detroit Lions.

Summary

Kelly Prays

Kelly prayed that God grant him extra years to watch Bills games at Highmark Stadium with his grandson.
He told WGRZ’s Kim DeGeorge he feels blessed and pretty good a month and a half after his stroke, despite reduced eyesight and hearing.
Clean medical scans have boosted his confidence for upcoming stadium events, prompting him to thank the community for its support.

Summary

Kellys Launch

Jim and Jill Kelly founded the Hunter’s Hope Foundation in 1997 after their son Hunter was diagnosed with Krabbe leukodystrophy.
The foundation funds leukodystrophy research, aids families, and promotes newborn screening.
Kelly led the Bills to four straight Super Bowls and entered the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2002.
Highmark Stadium, a 60,108-seat open-air venue across from the old field, opens on Sept. 17.

History

Historical Context

Facing a possible move in 1971, Bills owner Ralph Wilson secured county bonds and a 1972 25-year, $1.5 million naming-rights deal with Rich Products, leading to Rich Stadium’s 1973 opening with a 71,870-seat capacity. Decades of upgrades kept the venue central to Buffalo, and the 2021 Highmark naming agreement continues the pattern of stadium-driven community investment.

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Jim Kelly Recovers

Hall of Fame quarterback Jim Kelly said he is recovering from a spring stroke and feels really good at the Highmark Stadium ribbon-cutting ceremony in Orchard Park.
He spent several days in the hospital, with scans clean.
He noted poor eyesight, hearing issues, and surgeries from 2013-2018 for oral and sinus cancers.
He looks forward to the Bills’ first home game at the stadium on Sept. 17, 2026, against the Detroit Lions.

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