11/01/2026
Some dreams are bigger than football.
For Jacob, a lifelong Pittsburgh Steelers fan, the chance to experience an NFL game from the sidelines wasn't just another weekend getaway. It was the opportunity to live a dream that many people helped make possible.
Making that dream a reality required far more than purchasing a game ticket. Traveling with advanced ALS involves accessible medical transportation, wheelchair accommodations, nearby lodging, equipment, caregivers, and extensive planning. When friends organized an online fundraiser to help cover those expenses, people stepped forward in a remarkable way. Many of them had never met Jacob, but they believed in helping make this experience possible.
Because of their kindness, Jacob was given the opportunity to do what so many Steelers fans dream about: feel the energy of game day, wave a Terrible Towel alongside thousands of fans, hear the roar of the crowd, and experience the team he has loved his entire life up close and in person.
What happened next was more than we could have ever imagined.
There are some weekends that come and go, and then there are weekends that become part of your family's story forever. Our recent trip to Pittsburgh was one of those unforgettable moments.
As soon as we crossed into the Steel City, the excitement was through the roof. Jacob could hardly contain himself. This wasn't just another road trip. For a lifelong Steelers fan, this was a dream unfolding in real time, and from the very beginning, Pittsburgh welcomed us with open arms.
One of our first stops was Yinzers in the Burgh, where owner Jim Coen treated us like family and outfitted us with Steelers gear. Even Barb ended up sporting black and gold, which gave us all a good laugh. The excitement was contagious, and before we knew it, we were fully immersed in Steelers Nation.
From there we made our way to Mount Washington, where the breathtaking view of Pittsburgh stretched out before us. Looking across the city skyline and spotting Acrisure Stadium in the distance made everything feel real. We captured some incredible photos, including one of Jacob with the stadium in the background, a reminder of why we had made the journey in the first place.
Our home for the weekend was the historic Omni William Penn Hotel. To be honest, it felt a little fancier than a couple of West Virginia hillbillies are used to, but it quickly became the backdrop for one of the most remarkable evenings we've ever experienced.
That night, Jacob was the guest of honor at a private dinner where he met Pittsburgh Steelers legends whose names are woven into franchise history.
He spent time with four-time Super Bowl Champion John Kolb, former Steelers wide receiver Ernie Mills, Steelers great Dwayne Woodruff, and the legendary Rocky Bleier, whose story of military service, perseverance, and championship success continues to inspire generations.
For Jacob, these weren't simply former football players. They were heroes.
The highlight of the evening came when Rocky Bleier allowed Jacob to wear his four Super Bowl rings.
Not one.
Not two.
Not three.
But four Super Bowl championship rings resting on Jacob's hand.
For a young man who has faced more challenges than most people can imagine, that moment was priceless.
Then came game day.
We had on field passes and watch both teams warm up before the game.
The surprises continued when Steelers long snapper Christian Kuntz took time to stop by, share a few moments with Jacob, and pose for photographs. Every interaction throughout the weekend served as a reminder that beyond the jerseys and accomplishments are people with generous hearts.
The energy throughout Pittsburgh was electric, and as the Steelers earned a victory, Jacob soaked in every second of the experience. The sights, sounds, cheers, and sea of black and gold created memories that will last a lifetime.
Yet one of the most meaningful moments of the entire weekend happened away from the stadium lights.
We met an incredible woman named Michelle White during a tailgate gathering with the RENAGE Tailgaters. She spent time talking with Jacob, laid hands on him, and prayed over him. In the midst of all the excitement and celebration, it was a powerful reminder that God's presence can be found in the most unexpected places.
As we reflected on everything that happened, one thought kept returning to our hearts:
Blessings are all around us.
Sometimes they look like a stranger helping fund a dream. (Thank you Shawn Spinda)
Sometimes they look like football legends treating a young fan like family.
Sometimes they look like a simple prayer offered from the heart.
And sometimes they look like a young man from Putnam County living a dream that once seemed impossible.
Pittsburgh gave us memories, photographs, and souvenirs. But more importantly, it reminded us how much goodness still exists in this world and how extraordinary people can be when they come together for someone else.
We came home with full hearts, overwhelming gratitude, and memories we will treasure forever.
And whenever we think back on that remarkable weekend, we'll hear those three familiar words echoing in our minds:
"Here We Go, Steelers!"
