NFL Player Jaelan Phillips visits patients, hosts music therapy at Children’s Hospital

Carolina Panthers linebacker and Redlands native Jaelan Phillips visited Loma Linda University Children's Hospital (LLUCH) on Monday, June 22, bringing smiles and encouragement to young patients and their families.

During his visit, Phillips spent time with children who are undergoing cancer treatment, receiving care in the intensive care unit, and managing chronic illnesses. He handed out jerseys, shared laughs, and took photos with patients and their families.

"Visiting the kids and young people on the different floors was food for my soul," Phillips said. "To be able to bring even a small bit of joy to them as they fight through these challenges is something I truly treasure."

Phillips also hosted a musical therapy session in collaboration with Becky Long & Friends. The string trio performed renditions of fan favorites, including You've Got a Friend in Me from Toy Story and Pink Pony Club by Chappell Roan.

"I couldn't have been more excited to see the kids enjoying the music program," Phillips added. "I felt so grateful to be there and witness it."

The visit concluded with a meet-and-greet, where Phillips signed autographs on stuffed animals, handed out jerseys, and spent additional time connecting with patients.

No stranger to LLUCH, Phillips has supported the hospital through his involvement with the Big Hearts for Little Hearts Loma Linda Guild and has previously participated in the hospital's Story Tellers video series.

Beyond his hospital visits, Phillips continues to invest in his community. This past weekend, he hosted his fourth annual youth football camp in Redlands for children ages 6-14.

For Phillips, visits like this are just one of the ways he stays connected to the community that raised him. To learn more about the Loma Linda Guild, including membership and upcoming events, visit here.