(photo courtesy of Cedars-Sinai Medical Center)

Harlem Globetrotters player “El Gato” Melendez recently visited patients at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center’s pediatric and cardiac care units in observance of Valentine’s Day. Melendez gave patients valentines and demonstrated some of the team’s legendary techniques. He is pictured with 14-year-old patient Ella Johannes.

“As the only Latino player on the team, it’s an opportunity for me to show kids that you can really make your dreams come true,” said Melendez, who also celebrated a birthday on Feb. 14. The Harlem Globetrotters were in Los Angeles as part of the team’s 2017 tour.