Young Cedars-Sinai Patients Spend a Day With the Los Angeles Rams

Two Cedars-Sinai Guerin Children’s patients and their families traded hospital hallways for the Los Angeles Rams' practice field, spending a day with players and coaches at the team's Woodland Hills practice facility.

For Frankie Torres and Avery Brown, the visit was a chance to step away from cancer treatment and simply enjoy being kids. They toured the facility, met players and coaches, and collected autographs and photos on the sidelines.

“This was more than just a tour,” said Joanne Ordono, a certified child life specialist and program supervisor of Child Life Services at Cedars-Sinai Guerin Children’s, who accompanied the families. “It was an opportunity for our patients to feel celebrated, encouraged and supported. Watching them smile, laugh and interact with the players was incredibly meaningful. As a Rams fan, it was exciting for me, too—but seeing the joy on our patients’ faces was the best part of the day.”

The day began with a surprise. When they arrived, Frankie and Avery each received a custom Rams jersey with their name on it. From there, the visit included a behind-the-scenes tour, lunch in the team meal room and a look at the weight room, recovery areas and education spaces used by Rams players.

The experience grew out of Cedars-Sinai's partnership with the Rams. As the official healthcare partner of the Los Angeles Rams, Cedars-Sinai works with the organization to support the health of players, coaches and staff while creating opportunities for patients and families in the community.

The highlight came later, when the families headed to the practice field to watch the team train. After practice, players and coaches stayed to meet fans, sign autographs and pose for photos. Among those who greeted the families were quarterback Matthew Stafford, wide receiver Davante Adams, defensive end Myles Garrett and head coach Sean McVay.

Frankie, who was diagnosed with B-cell leukemia at age 8 and spent nearly three years undergoing treatment, eagerly gathered autographs and photos from his favorite players.

“Meeting the players was awesome,” Frankie said. “I’ve played football video games and watched them on TV, so seeing them in person was really cool.”

Frankie’s family has faced more than his diagnosis. In January 2025, they lost their home in the Eaton Fire, along with collections he had spent years building, including Pokémon cards, Legos and Hot Wheels cars.

Despite those setbacks, his parents say, Frankie has remained determined.

“Frankie has always been a fighter,” said his father, Francisco Torres. “Whether it was going through treatment or starting over after losing our home, he keeps moving forward. Seeing him have a day like this, where he could just be a kid and enjoy himself, meant the world to our family.”

For Avery, the visit represented another milestone. The energetic 5-year-old was diagnosed with stage 4 neuroblastoma in June 2024, when she was 3. Through the months of treatment, Avery became known for her bright smile, positive attitude and courage. Today, Avery is cancer-free and thriving.

“Avery loves meeting people and making friends, and she was so excited to see the players,” said her mother, Janine Burris. “Watching her smile and enjoy the day reminded us how far she has come.”

Avery especially enjoyed posing for photos and soaking up the attention on the sidelines from players who took time to make her feel special.

“I have a 5-year-old daughter, too; you both would probably be good buddies,” Stafford said to Avery.

These moments are important for our patients and families, Ordono said.

“Medical treatment is only one part of healing. Experiences like this help create positive memories, build confidence and provide hope during difficult times.”

For the Rams players and staff, the interactions may have lasted only a few minutes. For Frankie, Avery and their families, the impact will last much longer.

Read more from Cedars-Sinai Stories and Insights: Pediatric Patient Victoria Coats Takes Cancer in Stride