Holstein to Launch “JJ and Eli’s Fight Fund” to Support UPMC Children’s Hospital Foundation
8/28/2025 12:00:00 PM | Football
Quarterback’s new initiative honors pediatric transplant patient and provides financial relief for families at UPMC Children’s
PITTSBURGH — Pitt starting quarterback Eli Holstein will launch a new philanthropic initiative raising money for JJ and Eli's Fight Fund at UPMC Children's Hospital Foundation, supporting pediatric transplant patients and their families as they navigate long hospital stays, complex medical journeys, and the financial burdens that accompany them.
The fund will officially launch during Pitt's 2025 season opener against Duquesne on Saturday, Aug. 30, at Acrisure Stadium. Holstein kick-started the campaign with a personal $10,000 gift, which was immediately matched by Chris Bickell '97 Head Football Coach Pat Narduzzi.
At the heart of the initiative is a young girl named Julia—affectionately known as "JJ"—a transplant patient at UPMC Children's and a beloved member of the Pitt Football family. JJ will serve as Pitt's Junior Captain for the Duquesne game and join the Panthers on the field pregame.
"The first time I met JJ was during our Day of Service last spring," Holstein said. "She was full of life, even in the ICU. I went in hoping to lift her spirits, but she ended up lifting mine. Her strength and courage changed me forever."
Since that visit, Holstein has become a fixture in JJ's life. From playing video games at her bedside to standing by her side through difficult procedures, their bond has grown into something deeper than a hospital friendship. When JJ began to lose her hair due to treatment, Holstein shaved his own head in solidarity.
"That small gesture turned into something bigger," Holstein said. "I realized I wanted to do more—not just for her, but for every child like her. This fund is about showing up for those who are fighting battles most of us can't imagine."
JJ and Eli's Fight Fund will provide direct support to families of pediatric transplant patients, easing the emotional and financial strain during the most challenging times. Donations will help with needs such as temporary housing, travel expenses, and support programs that offer comfort and care during long hospitalizations.
UPMC Children's Hospital Foundation supports the hospital's mission of improving the health and well-being of children, teenagers, and young adults through excellence in patient care, teaching, research, and advocacy.
To learn more, visit justgiving.com/page/jjandeli.
"The biggest plays don't always happen on the field," Holstein said. "Sometimes they happen in quiet moments, when you choose to stand beside someone no matter how tough the battle. That's what JJ taught me. This fund is my way of standing beside her, and every child still fighting."
About UPMC Children's Hospital Foundation
The foundation exists to provide financial support for the hospital's mission of improving the health and well-being of children, teenagers, and young adults through excellence in patient care, teaching, research, and advocacy.
