A few months ago, a father battling cancer auctioned his insane Tom Brady card to make sure his daughters would be taken care of when the time comes. This goes to show that the hobby is more than just chasing insane cards. It actually has a heart that keeps this community growing strong. Another case in point: a heartfelt Aaron Judge gesture that can only happen because of sports cards.
Just recently, Mason Ferrulli, a four-time cancer survivor, pulled a 2021 Topps Diamond Icons Aaron Judge 1-of-1 card with his dad. In a video posted on the 14-year-old’s YouTube page, the moment was immortalized in a flurry of high-fives and joyous screams. Without a doubt, this was a win every card enthusiast can be proud of.
A couple of days after, that massive moment became even more amazing when Ferrulli met his hero, Aaron Judge himself. Speaking before a game at the Oakland Coliseum, the New York Yankees slugger said that Ferrulli’s recent card pull is a very special story, especially coming from someone tough, resilient, and who continues to have a smile on his face.
Aaron Judge also presented Ferrulli with his autographed pinstriped jersey after telling him that he’s an inspiration to a lot of people. The teenager is a three-time ependymoma survivor and a one-time spine cancer survivor.
This kind of gesture is something that can convince folks that the hobby is more than just trading cards. It’s a collective of people who can come together for the common good of all, especially for people who have gone through so much like Ferrulli. For sure, this won’t be the last time something like this will happen in the hobby.
Hats off to Aaron Judge for this awesome move. This had to make this teenager's day.