Baylor Football’s ‘Helmet of Hope’ to raise awareness of childhood cancer

Earlier this year, a group of Baylor football student-athletes visited some of the pediatric patients at McLane Children’s Medical Center in nearby Temple, Texas. During the visit, the players and kids colored their own versions of the Baylor bear head logo — and this Saturday, one of those designs will adorn the Bears’ helmets when they take the field.

The artwork was created by 6-year-old ILaria Ramirez of Cameron, Texas (about an hour south of Waco). Ramirez, who was diagnosed with leukemia last year, titled her design “Helmet of Hope.” Her art also features the words “faith,” “victory,” and “strength.”

Last month, ILaria got to visit practice, meet more of the team, and see her artwork brought to life:

 

“Our football program is honored to support the incredible children and families at McLane Children’s,” says head football coach Dave Aranda. “Our players are inspired by their courage and resilience, and it’s a privilege to wear a helmet that represents them during our Childhood Cancer Awareness game this September.”

It’s a partnership that just makes sense. Baylor Scott & White McLane Children’s, located just 45 minutes from campus, offers some of the best pediatric care in Central Texas. It’s also got a double-dip of green and gold in its name, from “Baylor Scott & White” (which has a historic connection to the university) and “McLane” (named for generous benefactor Drayton McLane, BBA ’58). And it just so happens that gold is the color for childhood cancer awareness, and Saturday is Baylor’s “Gold Rush” game for 2026.

With all that in mind, the Bears will take the field Saturday to play for ILaria and so many other pediatric cancer patients.

Sic ’em, ILaria!