On Friday, Kim Pegula took a significant step in her recovery journey when she walked onto the field to break the post-practice team huddle, an encouraging sign of progress after her tragic incident in June 2022. This marked the first time she was seen walking independently in public since her cardiac arrest, a pivotal moment for both her and those who have been closely following her recovery.
Kim Pegula is a notable figure in professional sports and business. She is well-known as the co-owner of both the Buffalo Bills in the NFL and the Buffalo Sabres in the NHL. Her rise from an immigrant background to becoming a major player in sports and business is quite remarkable. After completing college, she began working in the family business, which was involved in natural gas development and owned by her future husband, Terry Pegula. Her business skills shone through, and after the Pegulas sold their natural gas company, East Resources, for a staggering $4.7 billion in 2010, they ventured into the world of professional sports.
In 2011, the Pegulas purchased the Buffalo Sabres, and in 2014, they expanded their sports empire by acquiring the Buffalo Bills following the passing of the previous owner, Ralph Wilson. Kim’s leadership played a crucial role in the establishment of Pegula Sports and Entertainment (PSE), which manages their sports franchises and other business interests, including Harborcenter—a mixed-use development in downtown Buffalo. PSE also oversees recording studios and a hospitality division, showcasing Kim’s diverse business expertise.
However, Kim’s life took a dramatic turn in June 2022, shortly after her 53rd birthday, when she suffered a cardiac arrest. The incident required immediate medical attention, including CPR, before she was rushed to the hospital and placed in intensive care for two weeks. In early 2023, it was revealed that Kim was dealing with expressive aphasia, a language disorder, as part of her ongoing recovery. Recovery from such an event involves a complex process of physical, cognitive, and emotional rehabilitation. Kim’s recent appearance and her ability to walk again in public highlight both the progress she has made and the long road still ahead.
Bills head coach Sean McDermott and players like Josh Allen have expressed their gratitude and happiness upon seeing Kim Pegula’s progress. McDermott mentioned feeling “grateful and perspective” seeing Kim’s recovery, while Allen and others on the team were delighted to witness her return, reflecting on the positive impact she had on them and the organization before her illness. Throughout this challenging period, Kim’s husband Terry and their children have been deeply involved in her care and managing her professional responsibilities, demonstrating their unwavering support and dedication to her well-being.
