Dream Trip to Acrisure Stadium: Help Jacob See His Beloved Steelers Live!

The Story

If you know Jacob Harper, you know a young man defined by purpose, deep faith, and relentless energy. Growing up in Winfield, West Virginia, Jacob has always lived life hands-on. Whether running track, working with his hands as a skilled welder and machinist, forging metal at a blacksmith’s anvil, listening to vintage vinyl, or making music, Jacob pours his heart into everything he does.

And if you’ve spent five minutes with him, you know one thing for certain: Jacob is a die-hard Pittsburgh Steelers fan through and through.

On March 16, 2022, at just 23 years old, Jacob’s world changed forever. He was diagnosed with ALS—specifically the P525L FUS gene mutation, an exceptionally rare and aggressive form of the disease shared by fewer than 50 people worldwide. Given a heartbreaking initial prognosis of just 1 to 3 years, Jacob was accepted into a trial for an experimental drug (ION363 / "Jacifusen") that has helped slow the progression of his condition.

Now 27, and approaching five years post-diagnosis, Jacob is a living testament to resilience, faith, and defying the odds.

A Champion’s Spirit

Despite physical paralysis and daily challenges—including recently surviving a life-threatening battle with Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA) that left him Type 1 insulin-dependent—Jacob’s spirit remains unshakeable.

He communicates using a NeuroNode device that detects slight muscle signals in his leg, allowing him to spell out words with his parents. Even with limited movement, he stays deeply engaged with the world, surrounded by family, music, and the things he loves. Through every trial, Jacob gives God the glory and embraces every single day with gratitude.

The Dream: Black & Gold at Acrisure Stadium

It has been Jacob’s lifelong dream to experience the electrifying energy of a live Pittsburgh Steelers home game—to feel the crowd roar, wave a Terrible Towel, and root for his team in person.

Planning a travel experience for someone with advanced ALS and complex medical needs requires specialized care, accessible transportation, medical equipment, and support. We are coming together to make this dream a reality for Jacob, creating an unforgettable core memory for a young man who inspires everyone around him.

How You Can Help

We are raising funds to cover the specialized travel and event logistics needed to make this bucket-list trip safe, comfortable, and possible for Jacob and his dedicated care team:

Specialized Accessible Medical Transportation (equipped for his equipment and support needs)

Accessible Lodging & Travel Accommodations near the stadium

Wheelchair-Accessible Game Tickets for Jacob and his support crew

Medical & Travel Contingency Support for his continuous care while away from home

Every single dollar gets Jacob closer to hearing Renegade blast over the speakers at Acrisure Stadium.

If you are unable to donate, you can still support Jacob by sharing this page, keeping him in your prayers, and spreading the word!

Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for helping us honor Jacob’s journey and giving him an experience of a lifetime. Here We Go!

PS. Any funds raised over the trip cost, goes directly to Jacob’s family for his care.

Follow Jacob's Journey & Connect:

Website: TeamJacobWV.org

Facebook: Facebook.com/TeamJacobWV

Socials (IG, X, TikTok, YT):