Ben was recently made aware of a very special fan that is fighting cancer. Julia Pollock was in the hospital for 52 days before being recently released and is now recuperating at home. Ben sent her a short video message he made from his kids football camp in the hope it would lift her spirits.

Julia’s family wanted Ben’s fans to see how much it meant to her.




*If you can’t see the video here, you can watch it here.



Julia’s reaction to his videotaped message:




*If you can’t see the video here, you can watch it here.


From Julia herself:


Hello my name is Julia Pollock.

I battled breast cancer in 2010. In January 2011 I thought I had won the battle, but unfortunately I had not. The cancer is now in my spine and affecting my brain. They say it is terminal. I’m 38 hrs old and refuse to accept that. I still have so much I need to do.

I want Ben to know that his video email meant the world to me not just because I bleed black and gold and watching him every Sunday makes my week but because I’ve ALWAYS known him to be a man with a good heart. When I received the message I was in the hospital and I swear that was the moment I realized I had to fight like I was playing those dumb Ravens in a playoff game. Lol. After 52 days bed ridden in the hospital I am home with my family in Brighton,CO. I’m getting stronger everyday. I guess you could say this is my training camp.

I worked at a hardware store in Steamboat Springs, CO. We employee 45 or so employees. When they all saw the video message they reacted as I did with one exception. They all turned to Steeler Nation or better yet Ben Nation. Every Saturday at work I dress in my jersey for pre-game day. I’ve done this for 6 years. I have had to endure a lot from all my friends and customers. I never would have thought that one genuine and heart felt message could change all of their minds and that they are using words like classy, stand up, awesome and great guy when using Ben in a sentence. Thank you sooo much for your gift. I will treasure it forever.

I know your busy getting ready for the season which is why I’m taken back by your act of kindness. My sister was able to get tickets for her and I to go see you play the Broncos on Sunday night opener. Even though she was only able to get the 2 tickets and my whole family can’t go I’m beyond excited. I’ll be the one yelling and cheering you guys on to a victory in a hostile Bronco crowd wearing my Big Ben jersey with pride. The least I can do after you cheered me on. Thank you with all my heart. I do truly do believe the Lord works in mysterious ways and miracles happen. I have to, I’m a Steeler fan, right?


Thank you so much to Julia, and to her father Alan Nagy! God bless you!


July 12th Update:

Thank you to everyone who has sent emails and messages for Julia the past two days! They have been forwarded to her!


July 16th Update:

Julia is doing well since she was released from the hospital. She is living with her parents and getting stronger every day. She was delighted by all of the love from Steeler Nation!

You can see the latest photo of her and read her personal update here.