Mar23
Friends for Life
Elizabeth Rada’s family will never forget what Steelers great Troy Polamalu did for the Delaware teen as she battled cancer
By Mike Finney
The photo could be of any fan standing with any player at any NFL training camp.
But Elizabeth Rada wasn’t just posing to impress her Facebook friends. And to her and legions of other Steelers fans, Troy Polamalu isn’t just any player.
Rada grew up in a family of Eagles fans, but was drawn to root for Polamalu and his Steelers.
She would have been rooting for him to win Super Bowl XLV today against Green Bay. But bone cancer cost Rada her life on Oct. 2. The Charter School of Wilmington senior was 17.
“Troy Polamalu was her favorite football player, period,” Elizabeth’s mother, Sally, said.
After the family’s experience with him last summer, he’s their favorite, too.
When Elizabeth was in the eighth grade, the Make-A-Wish Foundation had set up a family excursion to Sea World. But she became too sick to make the trip.
“She changed from that little eighth grader that thought Sea World was great and became a huge Pittsburgh Steelers fan,” Sally said.
So last August, Make-A-Wish brought Elizabeth and her family to Steelers training camp in Latrobe, Pa. Her father, David Rada, remembers it vividly.
“A lot of the kids that go to training camp through Make-A-Wish have a hard time saying anything to the players, but Elizabeth was really relaxed and comfortable, and they all felt like that was great,” David said. “She was engaging and she didn’t clam up or anything.”
Elizabeth reflected on the meeting in a training camp diary posted on www.steelers.com.
“I couldn’t sleep last night. That’s very rare for a teenager to not like sleep. It’s pretty much the most exciting day of my life. Troy has always seemed like a nice guy and a great football player so it’s the best of both worlds.”
Elizabeth and her family met Polamalu and the rest of the team, who autographed a football for her. Plus, they received tickets to a preseason game against the Detroit Lions.
But to Polamalu, the Steelers’ hard-hitting free safety, that wasn’t enough.
“When we were at training camp, Troy asked Elizabeth, ‘Hey, you’re coming back for the season opener, right?’ ” David said. “She said, ‘We don’t have tickets …’ and he said not to worry about it, that he could make that happen.”
Polamalu did make it happen. With the Radas looking on, he intercepted a pass against the Atlanta Falcons in a 15-9 Steelers victory.
“Troy had that fabulous interception, and he autographed the football and gave it to Elizabeth,” Sally said. “It said, ‘Thanks for coming, Troy.’ ”
Elizabeth was thrilled. She wanted to cherish the memory with a photo of Polamalu intercepting the pass.
In late September, a 4-foot by 3-foot picture of the catch arrived at the Radas’ house, courtesy of Polamalu and the Steelers.
“A couple of days before Elizabeth died that picture of the catch showed up at the house,” David said. “That was on a Wednesday, and I couldn’t get the picture to stop rolling up. I finally found a place to do the framing and had it home by Friday. Elizabeth got to enjoy it Friday … and then some of Saturday.”
She died later that day.
“Troy had asked us a day or so before she died if it was OK if he called her,” David said. “Unfortunately, he called right after she passed away.”
Still, the Radas are thankful that their daughter’s hero turned out to be genuinely heroic. He was quick to offer his condolences after he found out about Elizabeth’s death.
“He just never stopped being nice to Elizabeth,” Sally said. “He was a fabulous superstar who wanted to make the end of her life special. I guess he has another personality off the football field. He just has a kind side that you don’t see on the football field.”
So the Radas will be cheering loudly for the Steelers’ No. 43 with his long, flowing mane cascading underneath his helmet tonight.
“Elizabeth really fell in love with the Steelers, and especially Troy Polamalu,” David said. “So I guess we’re all Steelers fans now.”
(via delawareonline.com)
Benefits of Physical Activity for Kids
Keeping in shape offers health benefits that will help your child throughout her life.
When many people decide to “get fit,” they assume it involves rigorous activity. But you don’t have to spend hours in a gym to be physically active. People can get in shape by performing everyday activities in the home. Every time you and your child throw a softball, swim a lap, climb a flight of stairs, walk to the store, or carry packages, your health and fitness levels are improving.
When someone is physically fit, she feels and looks better, and she stays healthier. The earlier a child starts getting in shape, the more she’ll reduce her risk of numerous illnesses. Here are some of the benefits that physical activity offers your child:
1. It strengthens the heart. The heart is a muscle, and like other muscles, its performance improves when it’s regularly challenged by exercise. The heart responds to exercise by becoming stronger and more efficient. Strengthening the heart muscle can help ward off heart disease—the leading cause of death in the United States, according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services—even in early childhood. Learn more about exipure healthy benefits.
2. It helps keep arteries and veins clear. Exercise reduces the amount of harmful cholesterol and fats in a person’s blood. It increases the flexibility of the walls of blood vessels, and helps to lower blood pressure. This can reduce a person’s risk for heart attack and stroke.
4. It reduces blood sugar levels. Exercise prevents sugar from accumulating in the blood by triggering muscles to take up more glucose from the bloodstream and use it for energy. This can reduce a person’s risk of developing diabetes. These are the latest nutrisystem reviews.
5. It controls weight. When a person is sedentary, he tends to be taking in more calories than are needed. These unused calories accumulate as fat. A person who is physically active may have a deficit of calories, which takes fat away and lowers weight. Lowered weight is good for the heart and can be beneficial in people with diabetes.
6. It strengthens bones. Just as muscles grow stronger when physically stressed, bones also respond by getting stronger. Adults start losing bone mass in their 20s, but those who exercise regularly reach greater peak bone density (before the drop-off) than those who don’t, according to the National Institutes of Health. Increased bone density helps prevent osteoporosis, a condition in which bones lose density, weaken, and become porous and fragile.
7. It helps prevent cancer. People who exercise regularly have lower incidences of cancer. The cancers most affected include colon, prostate, uterine, and breast cancers.
Daniel Gilbert
Troy is a awsome player and a awsome spoken man.
Tina Hitchcock
You’re a wonderful man Troy Polamalu! I am a big fan of yours and of the Pittsburgh Steelers. The world needs more people like you. God bless you.
Mark
Troy;
I am a devout Cowboy fan, but I have more respect for you as a player and a man than you can ever imagine. You are truly a peoples player. God bless you man.
Mark
Andrea
Thank you for making a young girl’s last moments special. The story touched my heart. It is always wonderful to hear about the unselfish acts of someone like you that make a fan like me proud. Thank you again.
kendra constance
That is a story that brings tears to my eyes. I am an oncology in De. I was raised a steelers fan in Eagles country is difficult …lol thank u to troy and the steelers for making probably the biggest moment in this girls life happen before it was too late. Being a teen or any age for that matter, w/ cancer is a feat on it s own. God bless. Let s go steelers!
Alison
Wow. Sometimes God puts angels on his earth…Elizabeth and Troy are perfect examples
Tina Cagnana
Troy, tears are rolling down my face as I am writing this. Although my whole family are HUGE Steeler fans, you are one of the first players jerseys we ever bought and wore. And now I will be sure to keep buying my daughters new ones as they get older so they we can keep showing you how proud we are of you! Go POLAMALUUUUUUUUUU!!!!!!!!!!!
Stephanie Ross
This is an amazing and inspiring story. Thank you for sharing!
jodi smith
you rock troy, an will always be a big fan of mine!! I wish i could see you for my bday but i know that would be hard!! But keep on doing what you do best an that is an awesome football player an a awesome guy!!!
Dennis Cook
Why not hear this story on ESPN instead of rape allegations, drunken driving, drug use.
There are sopme good guys in the NFL!
sharon1017
What a wonderful story! I always new Troy was a great man!
Lynn
I agree
Eddie Whiteberg
Troy ur heart is big as its ever been….miss you brother….things aint so good..
respectfully Eddie Whiteberg
Teresa
God Bless you Troy. I know you made that little girl’s dreams come true. God Bless the Rada family. I know their daughter is in the loving arms of God now.
Josh Green
This is what being a true hero and a caring human being is all about. I wouldn’t have expected anything less from Troy.
Anne
I am glad Elizabeth was inspired by No. 43 and had to meet and chat with a nice person who plays the field like no other. It’s a shame that cancer took her at such a young age. She now has the best seat in the house and never will miss seeing a game.
amanda henry
I AM A VERY BIG TROY FAN FOR STARTES I WAS SO TUCHED BY THIS SO MANY TIME I FEEL PRO ATHELETE LOSE THERE SELF BUT I AM SO SO GLAD TO HERE THAT AT LEAST ONE FOOTBALL HAS A LITTLE THING CALLED A HEART AND EPATEY I HAVE WORKKED WITH PHYSICAL AND MENTAL HANDCAPPED CHIULDREN AND ADULT SINCE I WAS 13 YEARS OLD VOLITERING IF YOUY EVER HAVE AN THING LIKE THAT IN PITTSBURG THET ME KNOW I AM ONLY OVER IN CLEARFIELD COUNTY
Rob Craven
Troy,
Words cannot seem to sum up what all you mean, not only to the Steelers, but to the community. You, my man, are the “Real Deal”. I hope you stay in the Pittsburgh area after your career finally ends. This area needs people like you. Keep up the great work, on and off the field.
Shantelle Ferguson
What a wonderful soul you have. This story touches me as so many of my loved ones have been devastated by this disease. My beautiful mother has had renal cancer twice and is functioning on 75% of one kidney, to name just one. I am sure you put some sunshine in this girl’s life. God bless you Troy. And also kudo’s to the rest of the Steelers!
stephanie ann negron
(tears) oh wow RIP ..
Troy, she must of been the most happiess, and grateful
For what you’ve done. your truley a great man
Sherry Thrush
What a fabulous tribute to life! Elizabeth was somebody to be admired on a million different levels, and so is Troy Polamolu.
As a native Pennsylvanian, (currently residing in North Carolina), I remain a huge Steelers fan. The narrative that accompanied this posting didn’t surprise me at all. I’ve heard hundreds of stories regarding Troy throughout the years. Each claim that he’s a pit bull on the football field but a kind, gentle spirit in all other regards. Therefore, the tenderness he displayed toward Elizabeth and her family appears to be a perfectly natural event. Great men accomplish great things.
If you watch this Godly man from Hawaii, (prior to his entering the field before games), he prays. That unto itself speaks volumes about the kind of man he is. He’s devoted to his wife and family; he’s humble and kind-spirited, and the Pittsburgh Steelers are lucky to have him onboard.
May God continue to bless Elizabeth’s family. She sounds like a tremendous role model for other individuals who are facing dibilitating diseases.
Candi Dunston
I know how the Rada family feels on February 4 2001 I lost my best friend who happen to be my brother-in-law Louis Ivan Hicks unexpectedly from a massive heart attack at the age of 47. See I am from Pittsburgh and a die hard steeler fan as well as my brother- in-law its good to know that ther are kind hearted people out there like Troy to make a child dreams come true you see its the little things that a peron like Troy can do thats means the world to someone without him knowing how much that it meant to Elizabeth and her family. They dont have to dwell on the lost but have the memories that Troy gave them to help them make threw this difficult time. One day I will be there to see My Steelers play a game with my best friend Louis Ivann Hicks beside me cheering on our team.
Nancy Cisney
That was so great what Troy did for Elizabeth, He is a super person on and off the feild. I am handicaped and I can’t wait to watch him on Sundays. I’v been to Steeler camp. tried desperately to get his autograph but no luck. I was real close the last time but someone stepped right in front of me,and being in a wheelchair he couldn’t see me. I even had his jersey on. He’s steel the BEST…………….
Friends for Life « Troy43.com | The Official Website of Troy Polamalu | For Omina Quries
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Danielle
This Story is soo touching and I am blessed to have the best football player in the nfl… Troy Polamalu is my favorite Steeler Player to I have been through a lot since birth with 2 open heart suguries and a sugurey on my right eye and a stint put in my right leg this past july.. Make a wish Foundation has been greatful to my mom and I because sometime this season I am going to be spending the day with the whole Steeler team!! And 4 days in Pittsburgh and including going to a Steelers game ( Do not know which one we are going to yet)… And Make a Wish is going to let me and my Mom sit behind the Steeler players… I have had trouble speaking also I could not purnounce words when I was 4 or 5 so I had to go to Speech Therephy for that.. I can not wait to spend the day with Troy Polamalu and the Steeler Players…
I can not stop looking at this story it is just so touching…. Thanks for Positing!!
From Danielle Fetterhoff, Central Pennyslvaina
Cindy Bush
He is such an awesome and very humble person, who doesn’t seem to let his fame and talent get in his way of doing great things for special people. I think more people should be like him, and this world would be a much better place for people who need something to look forward to when things don’t seem so bright. God Bless you Troy. C
Janice Zinsser
God bless you many times over, Troy! That’s what doing God’s work really means!
Lori Saffle
That was the most touching story I have ever read….Brought tears to my eyes…..Troy is my favorite player and I knew he was a good person but that just took him to a great person in my book….there are some people out there that pretend they care and he is not one of those …he truly does and that makes him who he is….the best. I am so proud of him for what he did for Elizabeth. He is a true Idol. And Elizabeth’s family… peace be with you and God Bless!
Linda
It’s just not fair that a 17 year old pass with cancer…of any kind. That being said, I’m still a believer that she is in such a “special” place with no pain and forever happiness. Troy’s personality shows through whether on the field or off. I think it would be an honor to meet and/or know him. There are special blessings for people who share their warmth and goodness. A big thanks to Troy for his spirit of giving!
Norwein
Thumbs up for a great new season. Go Troy and go Steelers.
Patty Osborne
WOW!!! I have tears in my eyes…..Even though I don’t know this special young lady and her family, I just want to thank you, Troy, for giving her the gift of your friendship and kindness! By you extending God’s light that you have inside you on to her definitely brought this young lady some much appreciated joy during her darkest days!!!
Samantha Reitz
I think this story and the things troy did for Elizabeth are so awesome I am also a big steelers fan and troy is my number one man. The things he did to make her last days here on earth are priceless and could never be forgotten and my thoughts go out to the Radas so for your lose and know that she is home with the lord and he is taking wonderful care of your babygirl and I am sure she was a bleesing to be around. Troy you are the greatest person for doing that for her you made someone’s dream come true and you have my vote for best all around guy. GO STEELERS lets win the super bowl next year for ELIZABETH RADAS as she is your angel watching you play and playing right beside you. Troy you are an angel sent from above. Thanks Samantha Reitz E-mail Is Steelersfan4348@Yahoo.com
wow, what a story, happy, but sad. Nice picture too.!
Would like to hear more storie’s like this, if more kids could get their last wish’s as Elizabeth did, it really means the world to them. So sad we had to loose her to cancer, i to lost my sister in 2007 to cancer.It took her so fast. i miss her so. and thank u Troy for being some one’s last wish.U r a very kind man. lol sue
DONNA GONSALVES
I WILL BE!!!!!!!! ALWAYS AND FOREVER A FAN, I LOVE THE STEELERS!!!!!!! ; )
Shad Scott
I believe Troy is an Amazing person. A true role model.
Cathy Wilson
That is so touching.It is evident that Troy is a deeply spiritual person and what an amazing story of sharing of himself to a young girl in her last days of life!
Russell
Once again Troy, you prove you and the Pittsburgh Steelers are top of the class on and off the field! Kudos!! That’s a pretty special thing to do, Somewhere up there Elizabeth is smiling and cherishing what you did for her!
Mark Jones
I’m a lifelong STEELERS FAN, And me and my wife were at that very same game when Troy made the great interception late in the 4th quarter. I’m sorry and saddened by the loss of your daughter, I’m glad the Troy is a PITTSBURGH STEELER and that your daughter’s time on this earth was touched by his generousity…..
Mark Jones
Jamiey King
god bless to Elizabeths familt! i will think of her and the family everytime i watch a game now! (everyone) i am a huge fan of all players but all time fav was “BETTIS” thank god he is retired because after reading this story i woulda had to make him #2! wow! amazing, its great hearing how human and caring famous people can be dispite their fame! not all turn ignorant! god bless his family truely because they are the reason! god bless to you all thanks for sharing GO PITTSBURG!
John
How nice! This story should humble and awaken us. It shows that just something so simple , such as Troys small getures of kindness, can go a long way in the lives of people. Its a perfect story to read after I read someone speak of this type of loving charity.
Here is an excerpt
“…As a matter of fact, the lesser good is more necessary for mankind than the greater. People can get along with their lives without the greater good; without the lesser they can not exist. Mankind perishes not from a lack of the greater good, but from an insufficiency of just this lesser good. The greater good is no more than a roof, erected on the brick walls of the lesser good.
The lesser, easier good was left on this earth for man by the Creator Himself, who took all the greater good upon Himself. Whosoever does the lesser, the same creates — and through him the Creator Himself creates — the greater good. Of our little good the Creator makes His Own great good. For as our Lord is the Creator who formed all things from nothingness, so is He more able to create the greater good from the lesser…
Through such lesser, easy work, done with the greatest simplicity, a man is accustomed to the good and begins to serve it with his whole heart, sincerely, and in this way enters into an atmosphere of good, lets down the roots of his life into new soil, the soil of the good. The roots of human life quickly accommodate themselves to this good earth, and soon cannot live without it… Thus is a man saved: from the small comes the great. “Faithful in little things” turns out to be “faithful in the greater.”
…Do not be angry over trifles “against your brother vainly” (Matthew 5:22) or in the daily contacts of life speak untruth to your neighbor. These are trifles, small change, of no account; but just try to do this and you will see what comes of it.
… give, give a glass of cold water to everyone who has need of it; give a glass filled to the brim with simple human companionship to everyone that lack it, the very simplest companionship…”
Lisa Pindell
Wow, sad but a beautiful story. Its great that Elizabeth was able to have a wish come true. Troy has shown many times that he has a great heart and he is so humble. Im sorry to hear about Elizabeth’s death. May her family continue on with blessings and peace and may she rest in peace.
Juanita Thomas
Troy you are a very wonderful person. I know from what i can see when you are on the field. You are always praying. That made my first impression of you. I truly believe that you have a good heart. Keep up the good work.nWe love you. We are the steelers nation out here in filbert and republic.
michelle
been a HUGE Steelers fan for many years..Troy just seems like the “nice guy” he shows to all..What a great man to give of his time to make her feel so special..Many blessing to her family..May the memories you have ofher ease some of your pain..
...
Troy I have been a steeler fan 1946n and I have seen all of the greats p,lay and you are amoung the greats… thank you for a great season …
Gary W. Sorensen II
I have been a Steelers fan my whole life, but even if I wasn’t, I would be a Troy Polamalu fan. Troy you are electrifying on the field, and compassionate off it. Thank you for making the world a better place.
shelly thompson
God bless Troy! You & your teammates are angels. Love you guys!
christina barillas
i believe someone always has a guardian angel that angels name was troy
Mary
I am not surprised. He is a humble, loving man and embodies a wonderful spirit.
Sue
I have always known Troy was a special person & this just goes to show how much. He is a true hero for all to look up too.
Nancy
What a beautiful story. Troy is really one of th best in all of football. So nice to hear how he cared for a little girl. What great down to earth guy he is.
John Filijowycz
Dear Mr. David Rada, I’m a very big Steelers fan and also Troy Polamalu. I read this story and I cried with trears. I really sorry about your daughter. It really touch me alot about your daughter. I hope you and your family doing ok. I wish there is lots of people like Troy Polamalu.. Take care of yourself and your family… from John Filijowycz(Montreal Canada)
Mark
Troy, you are a hero to millions! It’s amazing how you are THE BEST hard-hitting safety on the field, but also one of the most compassionate off the field. You are a true inspiration to me and everyone in this world. It would be a kinder world if people just had a 1/10 of your warmth, thoughtfulness, and compassion.
May God bless you and your family!
Sheila McDevitt
I’m a hospice nurse and I say, “Good for you, Troy.” Doing anything to help the dying and their loved ones is incredibly rewarding.
AMANDA
i love troy would love to meet in someday. he is one of my stefav football elers. troy you rock keep up the good work.
Robert Turner
Thank you for sharing this story. This is what sets Troy apart from every other player. He is a true gentleman.
Janet Hufford
THE STEELERS ROCK AT NO MATTER WHAT THEY DO OR SUPPORT! THEY ARE A GREAT TEAM, I WILL LIVE AND BREATHE STEELERS UNTILL THE DAY THAT I TAKE MY LAST BREATHE. A LADY STEELER FAN I AM!!!!!!
Patty Beck
I have always thought highly of your attitude and ability to give back, thank you for being a truly good person, God bless you and your family…
Patty Rapposelli
This was such a touching story……I can tell, just by watching Troy that he is an amazing person, on the football field and off. I believe he is a gift from God. More people should be like him. I wish him all the best. We should all learn from this young man.
donna wright
that was such a special thing and you are a special person. you are my favorite player and may God always bless you.
Diane
GOD BLESS U TROY POLAMALU FOR MAKING OTHER PEOPLE SO HAPPY IN THIS SHORT LIFE
OF OURS HERE ON EARTH. ESP. UR KINDNESS TO ELIZABETH RADA.
U ARE AN INSPIRATION TO ALL OF US. CONGRATS ON THE RECENT BIRTH OF UR NEW
BABY BOY!
GO STEELERS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Alex Do
you know, you dont have to be a steelers fan to be a troy fan (though i am). i live in Orlando Fl, and im going on a field trip to Sea World tomorrow, and i think im going to think about this girl while im there, and imma ride Manta an extra time for her. you’re the best Troy, and keep doin what you’re doin and you’ll win another super bowl next year.
and please do not ever be on the cover of MADDEN ever again, i dont want the curse to strike again, we love you too much
names peni koka
hey troy im a huge fan jus wana give u big props for reprezentin for all the polyz.i repp that 43 to the fullest.keep up those hard hittin moments.take cre bro..peace and god bless your career to the max
Melissa
Yet another reason why that man is my hero! He is an amazing human being on and off the football field.
Barb Smith
This is such a sad story. I think it is a wonderful thing you did for her Troy. So God bless you.
And GO STEELERS.
LuAnn Anderson
Thank you for such a wonderful story!!! What an inspiration to us all!!! God Bless!!
Bobbie B
Troy and his wife were very nice to a family in my hometown of Fairchance, PA when Evan had Cancer. Troy and Theodora use the gifts that God has given them to Bless Us All.
Alexa Wolfe
As a fan of football, college and professional, including the Steelers, I am so proud to see the kind of man who continues to be drawn to the game of football. Football is a game that builds hope, stamina, men, relationships, and communities. Three cheers for the fine examples of great men of the Steelers football team who love the people that live around them!
James (Shadyside)
Great story. Football is great to watch and Troy is a dynamic player. However, what he did to help inspire this young girl is the essence of Troy’s true character. A man who has been blessed, and passes on the blessings to others. Thanks for sharing this. James
Clay Wilson
I don’t like the Steelers, but am a fan of yours. Keep being you.
SFC Wilson
Mickey
God bless our last remaining americans heros, that can bless a childs life, like Troy. Troy never change ur hearts content 4 it’s the best that any man could ask 4.
massey campos
I am so thrilled and happy to have read this story and how troy embraced elizabeth in her last days and made her dream come true. I have been a steelers fan since I was a little boy. And to be a fan of a team that means so much to alot of people. So I will continue to be a fan for as long as I am alive. The compassion and care that troy and the other steelers players have towards their fans and people in general, makes it easy for me to be a die hard fan. This story really touched me and continues to proof to fans that steelers are the best team in any sport. Thank you steelers for doing what you do. Go steelers!!
massey campos
I am so thrilled and happy to have read this story and how troy embraced elizabeth in her last days and made her dream come true. I have been a steelers fan since I was a little boy. And to be a fan of a team that means so much to alot of people. So I will continue to be a fan for as long as I am alive. The compassion and care that troy and the other steelers players have towards their fans and people in general, makes it easy for me to be a die hard fan. This story really touched me and continues to proof to fans that steelers are the best team in any sport. Thank you steelers for doing what you do. Go steelers!! R . I. P. Elizabeth
Marie Corrigan
I live in Delaware close to this school and I heard about this. I’m a huge Steelers fan and a Troy fan and all my friends were just amazed at this article. Now they understand when I say that Troy is a true role model! Thanks Troy for all you do. You’re awesome.
vicki
That’s why I love you Troy. What a touching story.
arthur stiller jr
my daughter isn’t sick but she wuold give anything 2 meet u in person or be at one of ur games. we love pittsgurgh steelers. but we can’t afford 2 come 2 a game. i have 4 kids.i make less than 14,ooo a year. ashlee,thomas,patick,michael,my wife and myself would love 2 be at a game
arthur stiller jr
this would be a blessing
David Messer
That’s Troy for ya! Always a top notch role model, great faith in god, and a hard work ethic.
Bclina
Dear Troy,
you are such a great person! That is why I decided to submit a comment. I sent you a letter at your team’s address about a little girl who loves you so much! She is the daughter of my great friend and she is very sick. I sent you a picture and also her photos. All she wants is a note, a postcard, a phone call-something. It would make her so happy. She is the bravest little girl I have met and she inspires me to be a better person. There is nothing in this request for me, I just want her to experience something super special. I am not sure how much I can tell in this comment, but I really hope to hear something from you or someone so that I can tell you more about this beautiful little girl.
We don’t know how long she will be with us, but I truly hope that she will get her dream.
Thank you so much and keep doing all the great things you do-in football and in real life!
Pittsburgh » Great Story About My Favorite Steeler
[...] This is why Troy Polamalu is awesome. Read this great story! Click here. [...]
Amy Munson
Elizabeth Rada is my niece. She loved Troy and was so happy with EVERYTHING he did for her. He is truly a wonderful person and I am a lifelong fan.
Annarita Howell
I am sorry for the family’s loss, but how proud they must be of their daughter’s courage. As for Troy, your heart continues to shine on and off the field. What others could learn from you is not something that can actually be taught, but learned through observation and determination to be the best they can be.
Jennifer Eddings Morrill
all I can say is everything I ever thought about Troy is absolutely true. I have met Troy a few times and he is always gracious and GRATEFUL. Troy is a great football player but an even greater human being. The way he treated Elizabeth and her family is so beautiful. I cried while reading this. Thank God for people like Troy and organizations like the Steelers. Class acts, both. Thanks Troy for everything you do OFF the football field. God Bless.
Lisa Garcia
You are a true inspiration to people even though I know you will say that the people you meet are the inspiration. Troy brings JOY! #1 Polamalu fan. : )
Diane Person
This was a lovely story. I’m so glad you shared it.
Jeanette
Beautiful story… RIP Elizabeth ! Troy is my favorite player and reading Elizabeth’s story makes me believe that besides being a great the athlete he is, he truly has a big heart. Very proud of him.God bless u Troy and keep up your great job u are doing in and outside the field!
Georgianne Incrocci
wonderful story. I had written a letter in care of the steelers to Mr. Polamalu asking for a picture for my 14yr old grandson who is a Steeler’s fan who happens to live in Tenn. His 15 yr. old sister died suddenly Sept. 15 2010 and this year has been very hard for him (and the rest of us). I never recieved an answer but if I could get a signed picture of Mr. Polamalu I’m sure he would love it. His birthday is in august and I know this would make him happy. Thank You. Georgianne Incrocci 925 Waldwick Drive Pittsburgh, Pa. 15237.
miriam Bravo
A man who follows god always gets to his destination.
Michael Heßmer
I´m thrilled when I read this!
Jon Locy
If You think your life sucks or is hard….or full of nothing but hate and anger, take a ride to children’s hospital in Pittsburgh PA ,Houston TX or any city that has a Hospital cancer floor full of kids who are have very little time left…… But they still Laugh, Love, and enjoy Life! It will put things in perspective for you……..
This is possible through The LOVE GOD Gives us.
Find love in Your heart for someone who does not deserve it…..Like Jesus did for me…….someone who still does not deserve his Love …. Be Kind, Forgive, Show Mercy, and BE HAPPY !!!!!Life is short…..
TimothyElias
This is what make a great player a great preson.
April Forrest
Troy you will be rewarded one day for all the compassion and love you have shared with those in need, God Bless You and your family.
Joe Kite
Great to see such a nice story about giving. I am a big Steelers fan, since I was born. Makes me smile knowing that we do have some caring professional athletes out there, especially from my team.
carol placek
I couldn’t become more of a Troy fan than I have been but every time I hear more of the awsome person he is it just fills me up. What a MAN. I have been a STEELER FAN since my youth. I am almost 60 and that has never changed. Troy is my ultimate fav football player and evern though I have never been lucky enough to meet him, I believe he is even a greater human being than football player. Since I feel he is the greatest football player ever, that’s saying a lot. Luv U Troy
Kim Minier
Your a wonderful man Troy for making Elizabeth’s life fullfilled. Thank you and God bless you Troy and your family.
janie
Our whole family is and always was steeler fans (we are from the Pittsburgh area) But i remember when i saw troy making the sign of the cross on the field, I thought —I am going to like this guy! I have 5 grandsons and 1 granddaughter under the age of 10. and when the super bowl was on, every one of them had a shirt with the number 43 on it. It isn’t often you find a football player or any other athlete for that matter that is humble and genuine. we are so glad he is a pittsburgh steeler and I believe he is a big reason why the Steeler Nation is so large. I know he will keep up all the good works. God bless you troy.
janie
Oh another thing. Congratulations to Green Bay and Thanks ,Troy ,and the entire steeler organization for a won derful season.
Asimina
Hi Troy, I’m from Melbourne, Australia. I started hearing about you and your incredible journey to Orthodoxy through a newspaper article and so I looked up your name on Google and started reading a little more about your life. You are obviously a great football player and an incredible humanitarian … both gifts from a very loving and merciful God. May He continue to work through you and your blessed family and may His Resurrection which we will celebrate in a few weeks bring you renewed strength and focus. Kali thinami … Kali sarakosti … kai Kali Anastasi to you, Theodora, Paisios and Ephraim as well as all our brothers and sisters in Christ! O Theos mazi sou!!! Mr & Mrs Rada, God rest her soul!
tammy szesze
i have been such a big fan of yours and love watching you play i think you are the sweetest football player i have ever seen i am 41 and been watching steelers play since i was little and you are my favorite player ever hearing this story touched my heart seeing how kind you are love you troy
Flo Thompson...Age 74, Native PA, now in Ohio
Dearest Troy: I’m a lifelong fan of the Steelers and at 74….that’s a long time. While I have always admired the spirit and talent of the whole team, I put you first as a Steeler and as a genuine Angel of a man. Your strength comes from within your heart and shows in everything you do in life as a whole. May God continue to bless you and your family. Even though I will never get to meet you, I feel that my heart knows your heart and will consider you my friend for my lifetime. GOD BLESS!
Flo
Harold
You are truly a good person. I just wished that there were people like you in this world. You make me proud to call myself a Steelers fan !!!!
Janet
Not surprised in the least … this man is amazing in both his professional and personal life/ Thank God for a true hero in a sport where players are often very much the opposite. Good luck Troy and let’s see this lockout end now .. We need you back in our lives come July!
Michelle
What a fantastic, yet heart wrenching story.
peggy bauer
i had no doubt Troy was that kind hearted !!!! there are not many big football players that pray openly on & off the field for millions of people to see!!!!!!!!!
Kathryn
I knew Liz, and today woud’ve been her 18th birthday.
I cannot thank Troy enough for the happiness he brought to Liz and the comfort he brought to her family. Liz thought that meeting Troy and seeing the Steelers game was an unforgettable experience, and I know it was a cherished memory that she brought with her to the grave. Troy really is a great guy, and I’d like to thank him for everything he’s done for the Rada family.
I have always been completely indifferent to sports, but now I can proudly call myself a Steelers fan.
Cap
Troy is all about humanity, love, compassion and kindness. Lucky are we as Steelers fans that we have someone like him to look up to. You can rest easy knowing that young lady died a happy one for all you did for her.
We are so proud of you Troy! We love you!
loretta figolah
i am one of ur fans and i wood love to meet u and get a pic with u
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Allison
I wish there were more players that put so much of their hearts out on their sleeves…My son (he’s 10) has become SOOOOO engaged with football because of his deep respect for Troy. He knows how kind Troy is and that resonates for him. A role model in professional sports is becoming more and more difficult to find these days. Troy exemplifies true role model qualities through his unselfish actions, amazing athelic abilities, and honest humility. The first jersey my son has ever worn is #43…and he wants nothing more than to see his hero play in a game at Heinz Field this fall. Thank you, Troy, for setting such a good example for our son.
Stephenville
Your post sucks. Mines better! ..lol. Just kidding.
Just getting into this blogging thing myself, though
I don’t think anyone actually reads my posts. Does it come easier with time?
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