Fresno Grizzlies sign 11-year-old Valley Children's Hospital patient

FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) -- A young Fresno Grizzlies fan has received the opportunity of a lifetime from his favorite team: the opportunity to throw out the first pitch at an upcoming game. Jackson Standifer received a jersey with his name on it -- and signed a one-day contract with the team to seal the deal.

Members of the team surprised the 11-year-old at Valley Children's Hospital where he underwent treatment for a rare form of lymphoma. He's cancer free now, but because of his condition had to sit out this season with his little league team.

"I'm extremely excited," said Jackson Standifer. "I'm going to opening day on Thursday. I will be in the stands and then I'll be there on the 15th and I'm so excited to be there. I've truthfully always wanted to be on that field."

After signing his contract, he and members of the team met with patients at the hospital's cancer center.

You can watch Jackson throw out the first pitch next Wednesday on "Good Karma Night" where fans can select how much they pay for their entry. Half of all ticket sales will benefit Valley Children's Hospital.