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PrintPittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger is recovering following seven hours of surgery for facial fractures sustained in a motorcycle accident Monday at Second Avenue near the 10th Street Bridge.
Readers shared some of their thoughts about Roethlisberger's accident and his recovery.
Here are some of the comments:
My thoughts on Ben's accident, and everyone may not agree, are that first that thank God that he is going to live. My families thought and prayers are with him and his family. I grew up in Pittsburgh and currently live in Las Vegas, Nevada and support all of our teams (yes even the Pirates).
My first vehicle was a motorcycle and I can understand the reasons why Ben likes to ride. Riding a motorcycle is relaxing(to those who ride), it is fun, and for a cycle rider, there is no other choice then to ride a Motorcycle rather then a car. I don't believe that ANYONE ever gets into a car or on a motorcycle and believes they are going to get killed or be in a accident. I also believe, with everything that I have read from ESPN to the Post-gazette that Ben was not be reckless and this was just an accident. Now, it would be a lot different if he was in a car or had a helmet on, and he might of walked away shaken but not injured. Unless you have rose a motorcycle and enjoy it, it is very hard to understand.
On the other hand, Ben is a icon in Pittsburgh and it truly the face of the Pittsburgh Steelers. Since 2004 the whole city, every Steelers fan from coast to coast, has fallen love Big Ben and he does have a responsibility to the team, the city, and his teammates to be even more careful then the rest of the team just for the fact he has become that big of an icon in Pittsburgh. Like I said early, I believe this was just an accident (and I think Ben should not be punished for this then he already is), but I do believe that his family, the organization, and the his agents should seriously sit down with him (if it is even necessary after this) and let him now that he can own as many Motorcycles as he wants, but CAN NOT RIDE AND RISK HIS FUTURE until after his career is over and he is retired. I remember back in January when Bettis fumbled in the Colts game that a man had a heart attack(along with the rest of the Steeler Nation) as he was watching the game, How many of us felt that way on Monday when we hear that our star starting quarterback was in a motorcycle accident, wasn't wearing a helmet, and is in "serious but stable condition?"
At first my reaction was "oh there goes the season!", but then after I starting thinking about it and I was like, "God just let him live, I hope he is OK". For some of us we get so wrapped up in what we are doing and what we love (in Pittsburgh it is our football team) that we lose sight of the little things in life. I felt very selfish after that and had to write in just so everyone know that, he's young, alive and we all make mistakes and that we should not hold this over him as we held him up so high as he did that 5th trophy in February.
Thank you,
-- Shawn Hannigan, Las Vegas
My son, Ben (yes, I named him after Ben R.) is 11 months old and as soon as I got home I hugged and kissed him and whispered into his ear, "STAY AWAY FROM MOTORCYCLES!".
Get well soon Big Ben!!! Take care of your mind and body first, the Steelers will be there when your ready.
-- Will Fernandez, Freehold, N.J.
Welcome to stardom my friend. Hang in there, they will Love ya as long as you win.
-- Mike Comer, Ravenswood, W.Va.
Ben,
As the mother of an eight year old son who rides a bicycle and frequently wears a #7 Steelers' jersey, please wear a helmet. Like it or not, you have a tremendous impact and influence on kids who follow the Steelers.
-- Aileen Bowers, Aliquippa
He's going to live. Thank you for that small miracle. Will he play? Will he be the same? At this point his on field future is not up for speculation and frankly at the bottom of my list of concerns.
I'm outraged at Ben's stupidity and selfishness.
You're a quarterback, you get advice from Terry Bradshaw (The only other quarterback in his league is Joe Montana.) and you give him the cold shoulder for it? Can you imagine an IT startup company founder giving the cold shoulder to Bill Gates or Steve Jobs for offering free advice? Same thing.
Now we have several new receivers and receivers being thrown into key contract years. How is their future earnings potential going to be measured with Charlie Batch as QB as opposed to Ben Roethlisberger? This is the epitome of selfish.
Thousands of people's livelihoods factor in the Steelers success.
Teammates, ushers, concession workers, parking lot attendants, restaurant owners, merchandise producers, advertising sales, on and on and on.
Football is big business.
Yet our selfish self-obsessed QB doesn't care. He wants to feel the wind in his hair.
Ben? Buy a really big fan.
-- Ken Brahm, Monroeville
I have been reading all these emails and I think everyone is missing one important fact. People on the road driving in their cars do not look for motorcycles. Why did Ben wreck because someone wasn't paying attention and turned in front of him. If everyone would pay attention and drive we wouldn't be having this conversation. I do agree that if he was wearing a helmet, he might have walked away but he chose not to. He took a risk and paid for it. I am sure he will learn from this and make the right choice the next time. Hope you have a speedy recovery. Get Well Soon Ben.
-- Scott Bettinger, Harrisburg
I'm very glad to hear that Ben is okay. Can't wait till football season.
"Go Steelers"
-- Christine Moore, Bartlett, Ill.
Like everyone else in the free world, I was shocked and saddened to learn of Ben's accident, and I hope that he makes a speedy and complete recovery. With that being said, as usual, the local media has gone into overkill on its coverage. Dare I say in Pittsburgh that there are more important issues in the world than a football player's accident caused by his own reckless? Ben is young and strong, and like most young people, believes in his own invincibility. I hope he has learned his lesson and, going forward, that he will obey the state's driving laws (license!) and wear a helmet -- if he ever gets back on a motorcycle. Lastly, even though Ben is a very young man, he was put into a position of leadership that he readily and wholeheartedly accepted. Part of leadership is the maturity to think of those people who depend on you first. Perhaps if he had done that, he never would have bought the motorcycle. Get well soon, Ben.
-- Laurie Evans, Ben Avon
Big Ben was in a accident wasn't being stupid or anything it just happened. Football is a game don't forget. People get hurt in car accidents every day on their way work with more important jobs then what Ben has and don't get any press at all. Players lives can't be controlled outside of the GAME. If that was the case instead of the Roberto Clemente Award in baseball there would be the Roberto Clemente Clause in all contracts stating you can't fly in planes. Accidents happen in any type of vehichle or even walking down the street for that matter. People out there just need to be more careful. Get well soon Big Ben.
-- Joe Schudel, Defiance, Ohio
I hope Ben has a full recovery and learned a lesson. It is amazing that a player who would not set foot on the football field without helmet, pads, and body protection would ride a motorcycle without a helmet. Maybe if the helmet and pads were optional, he might play without them. However, there is no linebacker, lineman or safety that can hit as hard as a car. Mr. Roethlisberger was told many times that he should at least wear a helmet while riding his motorcycle. While wearing the helmet while riding is a choice under Pennsylvania law, for those who have a valid motorcycle license, the responsible thing to do is to protect yourself.
Mr. Roethlisberger made a poor choice for his own safety, and a poor choice for his team. Perhaps his injury will provide an example which can be used to emphasize the sensible use of a helmet, which would have likely absorbed the shock of the impact with the windshield and street. He is indeed fortunate that the injuries he sustained were not life threatening or career ending. Ironically, Ben lost his current opportunity to appear in a Chunky Soup Commercial, since that is about the only thing he may be able to eat for the next several weeks.
As the parent of a 20 something son, and as a Steeler fan, I hope he has a speedy recovery, and modifies his behavior to spare himself and his parents a lot of grief.
-- Michael J. Schessler, Charleston, W.Va.
I wish the fans of Pittsburgh would wake up. Ben doesn't need to hear how upset everyone is with him. He's a kid, he chose to ride without a helmet, and now he has to pay the price. How about standing behind him!!! Show him how much we support him and wish him well. Anger does not benefit anyone. Give Ben a chance to heal and make amends. I'm sure there are a few more championships in him for the great city of Pittsburgh, the Steelers and all us fans. Everyone needs to grow up and be supportive! GO BEN!
-- Donna L. Pless, Atlantic City, N.J.
The news is all about my quarterback these days. The youngest QB ever to win the Super Bowl showed his maturity in the most stark of terms on Monday morning.
Big Ben Roethlisberger rides a big bike, a Harley, and he does so without a helmet. He says, with adolescent frankness, that Pennsylvania's recently repealed helmet law leaves it to him. This is his choice.
While he rides out in the open country, among friends, on weekends, this all seems reasonable. Or so we will ourselves to believe, but anybody's mom can read Ben's half-hidden defiance. "No man can tell me ...," he said in an ESPN interview.
Give the overgrown boy his due. By the look of the accident, the other driver turned in front of him. All riders know that other drivers often do not see them. How much allowance does an experienced rider make for this and the weather?
No man could tell Roethlisberger that getting on a Suzuki Huyabusa and commuting through the heart of Pittsburgh belied every passive aggressive technique he used to subdue the national media, Steelers fandom, his coaches, colleagues and family. He could have been wearing a cape and blue leathers with a red "R" on the front, and he'd still be in the hospital this week, eating through a tube this month.
"I only ride in the off-season." And he has two months to heal. Bill Cowher will not have to alter any offensive sets to compensate for a quarterback whose jaws are wired. He won't have to pull a tight end back from the line to call signals. (No lineman can do it -- the officials' term would be "False start!") Jeff Hartings, the Steelers' center, won't have to run out on the field with a whiteboard hung from the back of his jock.
So, it's just a close shave, then. Maybe the kid learned a lesson. I'm sure he's not surrounded by pointing fingers and the accusatory tone that comes so easily to a disappointed, fearful fan. I'm certain that there are wiser, cooler heads all around him, parental veterans who know how stubbornness transcends even reason, never mind wrath. Perhaps even his mom can conceal the true depth of her fear.
But I once worked with a tech who commuted on a road bike, a laid back thing that came apart like a toy when some misguided Evel Knieval fan turned in front of him on a main drag.
His leg was nearly healed when his girlfriend left him. Then he scored a great job at a major hotel.
When I came back from Northern California, I learned that he had died when a vessel in his brain burst. His helmet had saved part of his life, perhaps a year and a half.
Get well soon, Big Ben.
-- Steve Layland, Las Vegas
Being a Steelers' fan all my life, and originating from McKees Rocks and later, Mount Washington, I love the city and our team. I reside in Germany and work as a civilian for the U.S. Army now, in Giesse, about 45 miles North of Frankfurt. I retired from the Army in 1986.
My comments about the traffic accident endangering our quarterback; I want to say that it really amazes me that Ben never valued several things in lieu of protecting our million-dollar prize (himself). It's been tough as nails acquiring someone to carry our team as far as he did, in only his second year! Who else has such a record?
I thought him irresponsible to stake everything having to do with "Pittsburgh" for the silly notion of a traffic freedom. IF he wanted to see his team lose several games, not returning to the championship bowl again; force the backup quarterback (Charlie Batch) to take on the responsibility of NFL ultimate victory, discourage the fans and disrespect the elite "Rooney family" and legend, and nearly bring devastating suffering to himself and his family, well, all he has to do is kick back, put his feet up and WATCH it all come to happen.
When I saw him in a photo in the post gazette riding a scooter in Switzerland, without head protection, I grimaced and said to myself, "Damn Ben, please be careful!"
I thank the Lord his injuries are not career or life threatening.
Similar happenings occurred when we though we gained another "Joe Green", in a man named Gabriel Rivera....remember? His accident paralyzed him for life and the Steelers lost a valuable asset.
That's all I will say for now; I sincerely thank you for this opportunity!
-- Bob Davis, McKees Rocks native, now in Germany
I have a theory on this...The woman in the New Yorker was hired by Marvin Lewis and the Bengals to get the Steelers back for the whole Kimo / Carson incident last year.
Ben -- I hope that you get well soon. I enjoy watching you play on Sundays.
You have a great career ahead of you. Protect yourself! If you're not going to wear a helmet, get five 300-pound bikers to ride in front of you to block for you.
-- Jim Stage formerly of Cranberry Township, now living in Richmond, Va.
Ben, you are so young and have so much to offer please think before you act. I understand riding your cycle gives you much enjoyment and freedom, but if you must please wear the helmet, so you will be able to get many more years of everything!!! I'm a fan of your's and the Pittsburgh Steelers you all have accomplished so much remember you are a champion along with your team!!! God Bless You Ben I pray for a speedy and full recovery for you!!!
-- Devoted fan and friend Marlene D. Bloom, Stump Creek, Pa.
I can't believe all you people complaining about him not wearing a helmet. Yes he should wear a helmet. but the big picture is his health. Ben is very lucky to be alive, just thank god there is no lingering effects from the head injury. Ben, get well soon and don't come back until you are 100% healthy, whenever that may be. I am a big steelers fan as anyone, and I was sick when I read this story about your accident. Please remember this was an accident, and accidents do happen in all walks of life.
-- Joseph Natale, Somers Point, N.J.
I am quite sure Ben is thanking the Good Lord right now for his good fortune. I have no doubt he has learned his lesson and will heed the advice given to him by all of Pittsburgh. I am just happy that he will live to play another day.
-- Ted Verbus
I would also like to offer my good wishes for Ben's full recovery. It was quite a scare watching World Cup Soccer and see that news flash across the screen. I can not mention here what I uttered then, but I suspect there were a lot of fans in Stelleres nation uttering similar things. The same sort of drive that causes people to take such risks is also the same force that drives them to do amazing things like tackle Nick Harper before he speeds away with the season. But Ben is smart. I suspect he has learned his lesson and will take his next motorcycle ride when he rides off into the sunset of retirement of being the best quarterback in NFL history. The story is far from over, but it nearly ended after the second chapter. The chipped teeth may affect the love scenes a bit though. Smile, you're gonna be OK.
-- James Farrelly, Hanover, Pa.
Get Well Big Ben!!! All this helmet talk when really we should just hope and pray for his full recovery. Yes, its dangerous, but, Im thinking he will probably wear one after this. Im sure his mother will encourage it!!
-- Laura Lore, Deptford, N.J.
Thankyou Ben for two fantastic football seasons! The folks in the back woods of West Virginia are pulling for you!
Take care buddy....Heal fast!
-- Glenn Kweder, Old Fields, W.Va.
Ben, you just experienced the hardest hit of your career. You should be able to intimidate the hell out of the mere mortal defenders this season. Don't give up on the Campbell soup commercials. It may not be chunky style but they still have tomato and chicken broth. Get healthy soon, the STEELER NATION is behind you and pulling for you.
-- Fred Walbert, Winston-Salem, N.C.
Let me start by saying this: I don't care about the helmet laws (Ben made a stupid mistake), or the legality of his bike. Right now, despite being a Steelers fan, I don't care about his future as a player. My thoughts are on the HUMAN BEING that is Ben Roethlisberger, and his family. He is somebody's son, brother, nephew, cousin, and grandson. We should be thanking God that he wasn't killed in the accident, not praising the fact that he can make training camp. We ought to be praying for his quick recovery, not his quick return to the field. Yes, I want Ben to play this season, and yes, I want to win another Super Bowl, but I don't want to put that above my concern for Ben as another member of the human race. God Bless You Ben, you are in my prayers.
-- Breana Napolitano, Harpers Ferry, W.Va.
I wish you a speedy recovery and hope you have another "super" year. Don't worry about the media or fan debates! Just concentrate on getting better soon.
As for Terry Bradshaw: Maybe he should reflect on his own decisions and how it hurt the team instead of showboating about motorcycles and helmets.
I hate Monday morning quarterbacks!
Cheers.
-- Jan Phillips, San Francisco
I only wish Ben a speedy recovery and am so glad he is doing well, but as a mother if Ben rides again and I suspect he will. PLEASE WEAR A HELMET !
My son's first kidney transplant came from a motorcycle accident.
-- Peggy McKita, Rocky Mount, N.C.
Firstly, I want to wish Ben a speedy and full recovery. There should be no rush to get him back for meaningless preseason games. Surely it will take time to regain the strength and conditioning that he will lose while healing from a broken jaw. He should avoid unnecessary contact until he is deemed 100% healthy. Fortunately, it sounds like the nature of his injuries and the time need to heal fully them will allow him to practice with and build rapport with his offensive teammates early in training camp. This is most important with his young receivers; especially rookie Santonio Holmes, who missed the majority of the spring mini-camps.
Lastly, I believe we will soon know the true nature of our beloved B&G's francise QB by how he responds to this near fatality. His first utterance should be deepest thanks to the greater powers that be, both spiritually and medically. His next words should be heartfelt apologies to those people nearest and dearest to him for the totally unneccessary angst and gut wrenching worry that his fool hardy accident caused them. Ben choose to brazenly ignore the adamant, vocal pleas of his parents, head coach, team ownership, fellow athletes and even his legendary Superbowl MVP predecessor to quit the motorcycle riding or atleast wear a helmet if he does ride. Worse yet, he defianetly stood before the national media and swore that he was not a risk taker, obeyed the law and only rode in groups. His words and most recent actions have sadly proven him to be a liar. How he answers to those he should care the most about and even to the legions of die hard Steeler fans like me will ultimately reveal how 'Big' Ben Roethlisberger really is.
-- Tom Potter Jr., Gilboa, N.Y.
I live in New England I am sick of the Ben bashing that is going on here. Talk about kicking a guy when he is down. It seems we as human beings like to lift people up and then drag people down. I'm not making excuses for Ben because it was still a STUUUUUPID thing to do. But at his age and the quickness that he elevated his status in the city. I'm going to give him a free pass. I don't know why but I am. Think about it:
Folks, he won the Super Bowl when he was 23 years old. How mature and responsible were you at that age? Couple that with the fact the he has enjoyed success so much quicker then any other QB in the history of the game. He has done in 2 years what it takes most QB's a lifetime if not ever to achieve. You also need to add the fact the he is the QB for the most storied team in the NFL. Now add a fanbase who have been obsessing over getting a Super Bowl caliber QB since Bradshaw left. A fanbase who have been feverishly waiting to get the "one for the thumb". He does all that and we make him this god-like figure. "IN BEN WE TRUST" ... isn't that right folks. I'm sorry, but you put all that together (age, wealth, championship, and a super-man like status in the city) in such a short 2 year career. You know what you are going to get? A cocky young athlete!! He thought he was invincible, and I tell you what so would I had I been in the same situation. If anyone in this forum has never made a mistake or used poor judgment then by all means throw the first stone!
To sum this up. A certain FREEDOM comes along with the accomplishments that Ben has made. A FREEDOM that a guy at his age and maturity and wealth probably shouldn't have!! A FREEDOM that a lot of guys wouldn't be able to handle including me. The guy is almost untouchable. Even the great and powerful Cowher wasn't able to get through to him. He rose above them all. Why was he able to look at Cowher last year in the face and shrug off the motorcycle debate? One reason and I hate to say it ... he earned it!! Just like Mario before him, we as the fans elevated him above the team and above the coaches.
Growing pains are hard. Some are more painful then others. Ben was humbled on Monday. He fell off the high horse that all of us helped him saddle. But I've always said this to people. I don't judge a person by their mistakes. God knows I made a whole bunch!! But I judge a person on how they respond and learn from those mistakes. That is still TBD, but I have a feeling the kid will be alright.
-- Chad Cooper, Wilmington, Mass.
Get Well Ben!
Let me get this straight. Ben is minding his own business, using his preferred mode of transportation, when someone pulls out in front of him. AND IT'S BEN'S FAULT! Unfortunately, had this not been a celebrity, the media would have ignored this as just another biker injury/death. Before being so critical of motorcycles, why don't you do some research on how many bikes are registered in the US and who is riding them! Ben, when you get better, come to the Bainbridge, GA Bike Fest. You can ride with us anytime!
-- Dave Bryson, (Long-time Pittsburgh resident and biker), Bainbridge, Ga.
Everybody has an opinion! We should all take this much time and effort to criticize, harass and scold all of the drunk drivers, many of them celebrities and athletes, who mame and kill people (not usually themselves). Get over it people. Say a prayer for our Big Ben and let him live his life! We love you Ben!!!!
-- Kathy Beltz, Pittsburgh
Ben, do the soup commercial, folks with broken jaws eat a lot of soup anyway, it will be humorous and show humility. I am sure the creative folks at Campbell's could do it tastefully. Best Wishes for a speedy recovery.
-- Jon Castro, #1 Steeler Fan in Spartanburg,. S.C.
This was not a one time lapse in judgment. I know everyone is sticking up for the guy because he is in the hospital and the right thing to do. But when the time comes and he is out of the hospital it is time for the Steelers to play hardball. Ben was asked repeatedly not to ride his motorcycle and if he had to please wear a helmet. He ignored the advices of his boss. I do not care who you are if you ignore the advice of your boss it is time to pay the piper. Time for that nice signing bonus to come back to the Steelers. Maybe this will teach him a lesson. He is not a normal person. He is in a spot light and will remain in the spot light. This means he loses privileges that others have.
-- Eric Youtz, Hanover, Pa.
First I want to say how glad to see Ben healing up well and hope no other issues follow him after he is well. As a motorcycle rider myself and being almost 62 year's old I know the dangers of riding one. In the United States the people just don't view sharing the road with a motorcycle on equal grounds. As hard as we educate people they still do not look or yield to a motorcycle like a car. And so many new young riders purchase motorcycles each year and I think the respect and knowledge of riding one fades early after ownership. And the last thing you can do is take riding a motorcycle for granted. When you own one you also get the bad side of ownership. A vehicle that offers little outside protection is light and very hard to stop in a short distances. You need all the protection you can get besides a helmet, your legs , arms and feet. So when you do have a accident you may save a little more hide on your body. I love riding my Harley but I also love my wife and famliy and owe wearing a helmet to them that it just might make a diffrence if somehing happens.
-- Don "TIP" O'Neill, Hopewell Twp.
We hope Ben is doing well. We are from Ohio and let me tell you the Cleveland Radio personnel are mean.
We work in Green and are Steelers Fans and we are all hoping for him to recovery and do what he does best play football.
And Ben Please!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Wear your helmet next time. We don't want any more injures to that beautiful face.
Best Wishes
-- Dawn Bagnola, Samantha Miller, Kelly Dougan, Diane Thomas, Debbie Elliott & Steeler Bob, Canton, Ohio
I think Ben should be the Poster Boy for "Dumb Guys on Bikes."
-- Jeanette S. Whatley, Pittsburgh
Dear Mr Roethlisberger, I wish you a speedy recovery and as many people in Pittsburgh and around the country are definitely glad to see that you are recovering quickly and seem to be able to play football again.
Having said that, I would just like to say that you are a very foolish but lucky man and I do hope that you have learned from this fool hardy mistake, it just doesnt matter what you like, it doesnt matter that it gives you more freedom in not wearing a helmet, I dont know why Pennsylvania ever repealed that helmet law, but it was the worst mistake they ever made and hopefully one day they will enforce another one.
You have to realize just how much responsiblity you have riding on you, the team goes as far as you take them and by doing what you did you not only took your fate into your hands but also the fate of your football team and to me that shows a complete act of not caring about yourself, your fans, coaches, and teamates.
In closing, I wish you the best of luck in your health, this season, and in the future and hope you will take into consideration how lucky you were and wear a helmet in the future.
-- John Christman, Lawton, Okla.
If he was not a Steeler, no one would have heard of this accident and they would not be rethinking the helmet law. No matter who he is he has a right to live his life the way he wants.
-- Ann Gibbons, South Park
My husband and I will keep Ben in our prayers in hopes of a full recovery. I only hope that something can be learned from this tragedy such as wearing helmets when riding motorcycles. A lot of kids and adults look up to men like Ben and wearing a helmet would set a better example. Working as a therapist for at risk youth (ages 13-19)at VisionQuest and having five kids of our own, we realize how much sports figures influence our youth. We need to set better examples. Get Well Soon Ben!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
-- Debbie Mello, Conneautville, Pa.
GOD SPEED -- BEN ROETHISBERGER !!!!
-- Chaz Athey, Potomac, Md.
I think fans took a little bit of heat yesterday in the news reports.
There were many comments about why Ben wasn't wearing a helmet and it was interpreted as a question of football and not concern for Ben's health. It seems to me a natural reaction to the situation. Whether they were concerned about his health or his career. Everyone has to play that "what if" game in their head to help to cope with the potential loss.
-- Patricia Castro, Houston, Texas (formerly of Brookville, Pa.)
He's INVINCIBEN!!!!
He'll be back.
-- Roger M Thompson, Saratoga, N.Y.
I would like to begin by wishing Ben a very speedy recovery and I am glad that things weren't more serious. He is a good guy and deserves all that life has to offer.
Second, it was very foolish of him and anyone else who does not ride with a helmet. Ben was damn lucky things weren't worse. I was a nursing assistant many years ago at Harmarville Rehabilitation Center and witnessed the aftermath and the long term effects of motorcycle accidents on young men in particular that often left them confined to a wheelchair or with brain damage that could not be reversed. The care and burden of these kind of injuries not only effect the accident victim, but their families, friends and society who must take on the burdens of the victims' care for the rest of their lives.
Third, I am angered and outraged at the local media for turning anything Steeler related and especially a tragic moment into a circus as usual. It is not necessary to report every minute detail and interrupt local programming or run news banners on the bottom of the TV screen with updates on Ben's condition. The term "too much information" comes to mind. At times like these I am thankful for independent public radio stations like WYEP and NPR for their intelligent reporting of the news that matters. I for one have more pressing things to worry about than anything sports related. The Pittsburgh media as a whole makes and encourages the "Steeler Nation" to look like a bunch of idiots when more pressing and relevant news in Pittsburgh and around the world is put on hold for anything Steeler related. Folks from out of town look at Pittsburghers through our local media coverage and think we are all idiots for going ga-ga over our local sports teams and ignoring the problems and issues that affect all of us on a daily basis.
Let's turn off the spotlights and let Ben recover in peace and privacy. In the mean time let's focus on all the other folks and events in Pittsburgh that do count but never get the recognition that they deserve.
-- Maureen Kowalski, Brighton Heights
To question whether Ben should have had a helmet on is secondary right now, and quite frankly, need not be discussed. As a part of the Steeler Nation, I am relieved first and foremost that Ben is alive. It is a miracle that he didn't suffer worse injuries. Ben is an integral part of our first Super Bowl team in 26 years. The fact that he could play this year is just amazing.
As for his helmet, yeah, it's a no-brainer. We all need to move past it.
Was it dumb? Of course it was. But I am going to give Ben the benefit of the doubt and assume he now realizes the bonehead mistake he made. I am sure he will never ride again without his helmet. We all love you Ben! Get better. Please use your head for other things besides head-butting automobiles.
-- Andrew Lee, Linwood, N.J.
Warned since May 2005. How long has Mr. Roethlisberger being breaking the law???
No motorcycle license, no permit, no training.
First off, get off the helmet kick. Ben R. went face first into that windshield not head first, so unless he was wearing a full face helmet, all of those injuries would have happened, and they may have happened anyway.
When one begins to ride motorcycle it is best to start with the Motorcycle Safety Course, on a 250 cc bike in a parking lot.
If you pass and receive a license then comes more parking lot experience, quiet side streets in the neighborhood. Same rout over and over again. Stop sigh, stop and go stop and go . Left turn -- right turn emergency maneuvers practiced in a parking lot, over and over again. Stay away from busy intersections with multiple turning lanes, congested red light areas, heavy traffic volume. Practice and practice on perhaps a 600cc used motorcycle, not a Harley Road King or crouch-rocket capable of doing 200 mph. I would venture to say Ben R. did any of this. I believe that he saw that vehicle turning in front of him and did not have a clue on what to do, he just fixed his eyes on the car and hit it. Ask anyone who has motorcycle experience, you will go exactly where you are looking. Any idiot can buy a high end motorcycle get on it, point it "straight" down the road and go. Knowing how to handle a motorcycle in all situation and conditions takes a few years of riding and that is every day riding with some training thrown in.
The lady who pulled in front of him deserves to be fined heavily and held responsible for her actions.
Let's see what will happen to poor Ben (and I don't mean his football contract, his money, or his playing future.) It's guys like him that give motorcycling a bad rap.
And tell your fellow sports writers to do some real research on motorcycle riding, training, choosing your first bike, safety. Helmets and the different types, pro and cons of all, before you start spouting off about motorcycles. You see us common folk don't have the power of the press, we just get a bad rap. The seatbelt law is pounded into us every where we look. How about an all out motorcycle awareness program???????????
All those people who will be crying to repeal the helmet law, are those the same people who are crying to repeal the "Woman's right to CHOOSE" But that is another topic.
Two more question, dose he even have motorcycle insurance?? Who are his motorcycles registered to.??
-- Dave Emil, Mechanicsburg
I wish Ben and his family well and hope for a full and speedy recovery. Having said that, Ben sounds like an idiot in those interviews from last year when he says he doesn't wear a helmet while riding his motorcycle because it is not required by law. Only a fool would ride a motorcycle or a bicycle without a helmet, regardless of what the state legislature mandates. We now know that Ben was required by the state to wear a helmet because he had yet to get his license.
I hope Ben becomes an advocate for helmet use and can communicate to kids especially the need to protect the head while riding. None of us are indestructible -- no matter how thick-headed we might be.
-- Thomas R. Dunn, Boston, Mass.
No matter how famous, no matter how successful, males in their mid-twenties believe themselves to be invincible and do stupid, risky things. Ben's no different. He was just acting his age, rather than his fame. And I thought that this year we could possibly be the first team to get 6 rings. He's lucky to be alive.
-- Andrea Johan, Columbus Ohio
I am originally from just outside of Pittsburgh, and firstly I hope that Ben recovers without major issue. I was just curious why more focus hasn't been placed on the actual accident to this point. Everybody is very quick to say, "see what happens when you ride a motorcycle and especially without a helmet", "I hope he has learned his lesson", etc.
These are great messages sure and I am in full belief that a helmet is important, but one of the biggest reasons they are so dangerous is because of the lack of respect and awareness for motorcycles by people driving cars. With my knowledge of the intersection and observation of the pictures, it looks to me that the car driver should have never made a left turn in that situation. Ben most likely was blocked vision by the cars in the left lane, and the driver admitted to seeing Ben from what I understand and pulled in front anyway. A driver with good awareness and respect for a motorcycle on the road would have never maneuvered like that. Can somebody please use this as an opportunity to educate people also, instead of just bashing Ben for being a "kid"?
-- Tom Whitehair, Indiana, Pa.
Good luck and get better soon Ben!
-- Nathan R. Cuba, Wyomissing, Pa.
Children will always act like children.
-- Art Suchanek, Boerne, Texas
I have been a diehard Steelers fan since I was 10, and I am 40 now. When we got Ben in the draft, I didn't know what we had. When I saw him first play, I said " WOW ". I immediately became a Roethlisberger fan. While he showed such great maturity in his football ability, this definetlly showed a major lack of good judgement on his part. It's not like people didn't try to warn him. Don't get me wrong, I want Big Ben to have a speedy recovery, but I hope he shows better judgement in the future. I hope he thinks more about the team. If they made helmets optional in the NFL, would he not wear one knowing he has people like Porter and Polamolu after him?
-- Tracy Kline, Bradenton, Fla.
I hope you realize just how lucky you are. In just 2 years, you have a Super Bowl ring and the potential for more. That alone is extremely fortunate, but to have the kind of accident you had and escape major injury is truly lucky. I hope you have learned your lesson and I urge you to give up the motorcycle until after you've retired. God doesn't give people that many chances and as lucky as you have been in life so far, if you keep pushing the envelope, the luck eventually runs out.
Get better soon!
-- Erik E. Wong, New Brunswick N.J.
When I heard Ben was riding without a helmet last year I thought that was a very immature and selfish decision for a person in such a critical position in the Steelers organization and public eye to make. He is supposed to be a leader and role model. How he could have such disregard for his own safety and the well being of the team was mind blowing to me. I have been in several motorcycle accidents in my life 2 which were severe and I was a trauma patient twice. ALL of them I was WAS wearing a helmet. If I wasn't I would not be here writing this today. Thank GOD he wasn't injured more severely, but maybe this will teach him a lesson not just in motorcycle safety but in life as well.
-- Beau Henschen, Fort Lauderdale, Fla.
I can't believe not only does he not wear a helmet, but he doesn't even possess a valid motorcycle license? Will it come out later he was driving uninsured? I thought Ben had his act together, however he is just another 20 something that needs to get his head out of his a**. I hope that Ben learns from this and starts to think more long term than what he has in the past. Like it or not, Ben needs to realize he is a role model, and steering the ship of the greatest football franchise in the World!
Steelers Forever!
-- Michael C. Hill, Salisbury, Md.
I have been a Steelers fan all of my life and hearing the news of Ben's motorcycle accident was absolutely devastating. My prayers go out to Ben for a complete recovery from the serious injuries he incurred in Monday's accident. Based upon the reports I've read on the internet and in the newspapers, I'm confident Ben will be quarterbacking the Steelers to victories again come the start of the regular season. In the meantime, Ben needs to seriously evaluate whether he should continue riding a motorcycle during his playing days. If he does continue to ride, he must wear a helmet just as he does when he goes out onto the football field each week.
Safety does matter! I hope Ben takes Bill Cowher's and Terry Bradshaw's advice and gives up the motorcycle at least until he retires. Get well soon Ben and keep the motorcycle in the garage!
-- Scott Sargent, Flanders, N.J.
As a long time Steeler fans I wish Big Ben (for his sake) a speedy recovery and hope he realizes he was truly blessed! As a Steeler fan I hope he now realizes that not many people in this world get the opportunity to make the type of money he can earn in a 15 year span. As a adult and a employee of the Steeler organization I think he might owe the Steelers and their fans a apology! I realize that a great young quarterback, with confidence in his ability, has a to have a little cockiness about him. I do not live in Pittsburgh , but have heard that Ben has a little bit of an arrogant attitude/cockiness about him on a daily basis, not just on the field. I hope Ben recovers in time to start the season, but if there are any problems, I hope the Steelers don?t try to rush him back. As a long time Steeler fan from Erie, PA, residing in San Antonio, TX - ?Here We Go Steelers, Can You Say Back to Back Championships!"
-- Jack Bigley
Give Ben a break. There are two types of motorcyclists -- those who have been down, and those who haven't yet. If Ben wears a full-face helmet during his accident, the only kind that might protect the face and jaw, consider the weight of the helmet. The impact of smashing against the windshield and then bouncing repeatedly on the pavement could easily fracture or seriously injure his neck stem. Helmets are not all they are cracked-up to be.
I've been riding for twenty years, and strap on a helmet only in states that require it. Most folks who want me to wear a helmet never ride a motorcycle. The helmet hinders peripheral vision and muffs sound, lessening reaction time by a fraction of a moment. One I may need. No, I'm not a star quarterback, but I value my life as much as Ben values his. (You guys may not!)
Ah -- enter principle and integrity, the strength to stand-up for your beliefs when the going gets tough. Ben gets back on that bike and rides they way he chooses. He lives his life while he can. If he listens to most of his fans and coaches, he will sit on the porch and live in the training facility. Then the fans only worry about natural causes like health, sports injuries, and freak accidents of nature. Give Ben a break. The guy feels bad enough. Respect his freedom of choice.
-- Ron Mitchell, Phoenix, Ariz.
Dear Sweet Ben, We wish you a speedy recovery and hope you never get back on your motorcycle again. Our family has been Steeler fans since they started playing and you have been a joy to watch we love you so much please take care. Love Barb, Rochelle, Mikayla, Ty, Fe, Gabby, Julia, Christopher and Ben Warren .Go Big Ben !!!!!!
All Steeler fans have now moved from denial to acceptance to anger and are now in, well still in anger. The QB, our hero, used bad judgment. Not that this is the first time, remember, there were some interceptions but we got over those. Athletic talent has been replaced with judgment talent. No one is giving up on Ben. Again, the team will support him, give him the ball, and tell him to move it downfield. However, this time it is different. His judgment will be the focal point of all the fans, and every sports commentator from Al Michaels to Al Nobody will defy you error again. Ben's future errors will be because of his judgment and not his athletic ability. As one grows older, it is what is between your ears that matters most.
Ben is the leader and leaders are set in place because they have good judgment. Whether he likes it or not, Ben is leading the Steeler Nation, not just a diverse collection of people, young and old, but also a most exceptional troupe like no other in the world. Ben, you have put a black and blue mark on their face just like the one on your face.
We might be concerned that Ben will hear the 'judgment' word so often that he will doubt his own judgment the next time it errors. The echoes will be loud and long, included in every Steeler article in every publication across the country. Ben will be reminded of his judgment in every sports magazine for the entire season. Ben will relive the accident and his 'helmet judgment' as he watches himself on TIVO and hears the announcers reminding all viewers of the dreadful accident that happened in June, and the 'j' word will be used again. The 'j' word will be worn out for all of us and we will grow weary of hearing it, but Ben may be put into mental depression over that one sound.
It is judgment day for Ben. Heal fast. Meet the press, admit your error. Apologize and resume your grave responsibility. Get back to the business of football. That will be good judgment. Don't hesitate, don't waffle, don't waste downs. You have to be geared up for the Vikings in 65-days. You can't do it alone, you need the Steeler Nation to succeed.
-- Denny Durst, Peachtree City, Ga.
I wish Ben the best of luck in his recovery. Looking on the bright side, missing a few teeth should help expand his fan-base among the true, hard-core, Steeler fans.
-- Tom McWhirter, Kasson, Minn.
I have been a Steeler fan since 1948 and suffered through a lot of losing seasons. I can only hope that you have a complete and full recovery from this terrible crash. Thank God you were not killed or permanently paralyzed in the accident. I had a bicycle wreck back in 1950 while riding double on a bicke with another pal in Waynesburg, Pa. He was killed instantly and I suffered two broken jaws, a broken nose, broke the roof of my mouth and had a fractured skull, so I kind of have an idea of the pain you will be going through. Here's hoping that you mend quickly and are able to have full recovery and may God bless you and your family. And Ben please stay off of the motorcycle from here on -- but if you think you might want to ride one in the future at least wear a helmet.
-- Ron Porter, North Lawrence, Ohio
Good day Ben, I truely hope you are feeling better as time goes on. I'm very sorry to hear about the accident, and was pretty much scared for your life when I first heard the details.
As a teenager, I lost a buddy in a bike accident, because the loved the thrill of riding fast, and carelessness. You never forget incidents like that, and it taught me to slow down and enjoy the ride. Life is also a ride that should be enjoyed.
As a celeberty, you have to make changes in life. One of them is to be a proper role model to kids. They should see you riding safely, properly, and with a helmetwould you play QB without a helmet????
You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.
Here's hoping for a fast and full recovery.
Good luck,
-- Don Love, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
I think the test for Ben Roethlisberger will be in how he handles this situation. It is one thing to be happy-go-lucky and perhaps be a bit immature at 24 prior to this accident. It is quite another thing if, after this accident, he continues riding motorcycles and comes off as indignant and defensive as he did in his ESPN interview with Adrea Kramer. Clips of that interview, and others, really look silly now. Question is, will he look silly again or wise up?
-- Jim Boyer, Pembroke Pines, Fla.
Not to take ANY of the blame away from Big Ben on what happened but I think Suzuki should also take some of the blame and responsibility. From what I understand, Ben was given this bike for free for letting them use his name or appearing at some event for the company. According to one of the articles in today's paper, a sales person for this type of bike recommends that only an "experienced" rider should purchase a bike as powerful as this one. So why would this company give such a gift to someone that is clearly not at the necessary experience level.
-- Frank W. Lovre, Orlando, Fla.
JUST WANT TO SAY THAT MY PRAYERS ARE WITH BEN AND HIS FAMILY. HE IS A GREAT GUY. GET WELL SOON BEN, WE MISS YOU AND LOVE YOU!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
-- Sarah, Phoenix, Ariz., (born and raised in Pittsburgh)
God bless you Big Ben. Our prayers are with you for a healthy recovery.
-- Glen Sawhill, Windsor, Ontario, Canada
I am a long time Steelers fan and I wish Ben a speedy recovery.
I am also a 9 yr motorcycle rider in a state where use of a helmet is optional as it is in PA. The amount of attention that aspect of this unfortunate accident is getting disturbs me greatly. The fact that Ben wasn't wearing a helmet isn't the point. What is the point is who is at fault in the accident but thats not going to sell papers or cause controversy.
If the driver of the car made a left turn without assured clear distance that's the reason why the accident happened; not that Ben wasn't wearing a helmet. Root casue is what's important here and making sure people see other drivers and use caution when operating their vehicles is also the point.
There are downsides to helmets as well as upsides: Helmets can restrict a riders ability to use their peripheral vision, their hearing can be impared with full face helmets and helmets can cause your head to sway with strong winds. If helmets worked 100% of the time then all states would require them for all riders, and they don't. Personal choice isn't a strong enough argument here. There must be evidence supporting helmets not being worn or death and serious injuries on helmetted riders must be close to non-helmetted riders. I think it's the latter.
Stop making this about helmets and make it what it is really about. Someone making an error in judgment while driving their vehicle. What needs to occur here is penalties for causing accidents should be more severe no matter who is at fault. Make cyclists re-exam annually if they are found at fault in an accident. Make it mandatory that they wear a helmet if they cause an accident for 3-5 yrs or something. But don't penalize everyone for the mistakes of the few.
Lastly, if the Steelers want to protect their investments (and that's what they are most concerned with here, not his safety or well being because it is always about $$) they should have had him sign something in his contract forbidding certain specific activities and they did not. I'm sure they will at his next contract.
Get well soon Ben and ride safer with the proper licensing and training in the future.
-- Chris, Hinckley, Ohio
I grew up in a little town near Johnstown Pennsylvania and now live in the Carolinas and I have been a Steeler fan for all of my 54 years. I am so glad that Ben is going to be OK after his horrific accident on Monday.
To put it mildly, he was very lucky. The good lord looks out after baby's, fools and drunks of which Big Ben fits into one of those categories. I think Ben needs to realize that he not only has a responsibility to his family and loved ones to ride safely but also to his team mates and the Steeler Nation.
A good friend of mine who also rides motorcycles told me one time that there are two types of motorcycle riders. Those who have dropped their bikes and those who haven't dropped them yet. Please Ben, be careful.
-- Fred Steward, Charlotte, N.C.
Get well soon the Steeler's need one for the other hand!!! Wearing a helmet is only to protect yourself and the team!! They need you and the town of Pittsburgh needs you not to make stupid mistakes on and off the field, like not wearing a helmet.
Get Well Soon!!
-- Garrett Hodas (age 12 ), Fort Myers, Fla.
Why feel sorry for the man? Sure, he's a great player for our team; but, obviously, he just doesn't care. He should have been wearing a helmet. He most likely would not be in the hospital right now if he had. It's not like he didn't have a warning or know the danger. Is this the man we want our children looking to as a role model? He endorses not following the law by driving without a motorcycle license. He participates in dangerous activities without using the proper safety equipment. If that had been me, you, or any other average Joe, the public, if they had even heard about it, would be crucifying us for not wearing our helmet.
-- Carolyn Doubt, Pittsburgh
Ben, I want nothing but the best for you. Hope your recovery goes well, don't rush to get back, time heals all wounds, and hopefully in time, we the fans can overcome some of the anger we feel at you for not taking better care of your overall safety. Please ditch the bike till your football season is over, you'll have plenty of time to ride then.
Take care, have a speedy recovery.
A longtime Steeler fan
-- Bev Corcoran, Pottsville, Pa.
First, I want to say hopefully Big Ben is recovering well over at Mercy. I do want to comment on what some of the fans are saying about how he is an idiot since he was not wearing a helmet. Personally if I did choose to ride a bike I would probably wear a helmet, but for not wearing a helmet thats the persons choice. Truth be told with anything in life the more comfortable you get at something, you do not think of all the risks and sometimes you get careless. I am a die hard steeler fan but for fans to start to give an ear full about why he was not wearing a helmet is uncalled for. It is not like you are a family member, we know him because he has brought joy and success back to the Steel City. So instead of giving Big Ben hard time just keep him in your thoughts and hope for a speedy recovery so he can get us some more super bowl championships. -- Eric Horansky, New Kensington Pa.
I love the Steelers and feel Ben has a God given talent. He needs to realize that he is a legend and should value that. Legally driving w/o a license was wrong as well as w/o a helmet, however I think not only was Pittsburgh disappointed in him, but God too.
At the same time, Ben is a grown man who is responsible for his actions. I think people need to quit riding him like they are b/c he has enough to deal w/ already.
Bottom line is "we all make mistakes"
-- Jackie Sofranko, New Brighton, Pa.
Like everyone else, I was shocked and saddened when I heard the news about Ben's accident. My husband received a call from a good friend of his who rides a motorcycle. I heard my husband saying, "... motorcycle accident ... without a helmet? ..." I thought that it was someone that we know personally.
When I heard the news that it was Ben, it felt like I do know him personally. I am originally from the Pittsburgh area. I'm one of the thousands of fans who belongs to the Steelers Nation. I love the Steelers and I was so proud of them this past season. I am always proud of them.
I was disappointed by Ben's poor judgement in not wearing a helmet. When you are where he is, you have to think of yourself, your team and your fans who have supported you over the last few years. Please be more wise in the future. We all appreciate you and we want to continue to appreciate you while you are alive.
-- Kathy Sluck, Centreville, Va.
What about the 62 yr old woman whose car Mr. Roethlisberger hit? Reports say he was driving east and she west. Did she turn left in front of him? Has any one checked her driving record, and especially her visual acuity? I work for a group of retina surgeons and most of our older patients with macular degeneration or diabetic retinopahy who drive should not be doing so because of their reduced visual acuity. Just curious.
-- Jonnene Marie Jones, Phoenix, Ariz.
I'm a lifelong Pittsburgh Steelers fan since before their Super Bowl years. I have been so excited about our chances ever since Big Ben became our starting quarterback. His leadership and his humble style have been the medicine we needed as well as his don't give up attitude displayed in almost every game he has played in. Prior to the motorcycle accident, I had him placed among the elite of the NFL leaders and always putting his team and others first.
The fact that he was in the accident is unfortunate and I'm so glad his prognosis is good. However, he had a lapse of good judgement by not wearing a helmet. Sure, he probably still would have been hurt -- but I don't think to the extent that he was. Big Ben is a role model -- even if he doesn't want to be one. He is setting the example for younger people who wish to emulate him. This episode will tell a lot about the man. Will he be a good role model or will he be a poor one. His leadership does not end on the football field. Personally, I hope he gives up on bike riding all together. I would love to see him go on a speaking tour now -- to repeal the silly law allowing bikers to go helmet-less. Why on God's green earth does the legislature allow that and then turn around and require seat belts. I depend on seat belts. A seat belt saved my mothers life. How goofy -- Ben is allowed to ride a motorcycle without a helmet but he would be fined for not wearing a seat belt.
Go Steelers (and) Get well quick Ben!
Best regards and God bless!
-- Ted (Buz) Allegretto, Erie
I think that Ben has to remember that whether he asked for it or not, he is a member of the Pittsburgh Steelers. Stating the obvious, the Steelers are so much more than a team to the city of Pittsburgh. We eat, breathe and sleep football like no other fans in the country. They are the life blood of our town. Every single one of us has 53 children we love to watch over on Sunday afternoon and share our thoughts, tragedies and triumphs with. These players are a part of us in a way that I don't think even they will ever know. Ben's accident simultaneously infuriates and breaks the hearts of a nation, and he has to realize that his actions both on and off the field affect the lives of millions.
That being said, as fans, we have to remember that Ben's life is his to live. We can offer support and suggestions (as we do), but when it comes down to it, just as we allow him to decide to scramble or hit Ward on a slant, we have to allow him to decide to ride a bike or not.
He knows he's constantly under the watchful eye of the city, but it has to end there. Our second guessing and "I told you so" both on and off the field does nothing to help the situation.
The hearts of the collective Steelers Nation are with you, Ben.
Please get well soon---and not just so you can get back on the field.
You are a part of something much larger than a mere football team, and we will hold our breath until you are better again.
-- Mikey Vu, Arlington, Va.
Stupid ... YES!!! Everyone in life makes mistakes and people make mistakes that can hurt others. However, not many individuals can bring the pride, excitement, and happiness that Big Ben gave this city last year with a Super Bowl win. If he comes back to lead the Steelers this year toward another Super Bowl, he is super-human. If he can never play football again, he is still a hero. Big Ben gave to this city in two years more than we could of ever hoped for. Riding a bike especially without a helmet is dumb -- but lets not forget what Big Ben had done for this city! We should all as a city, come together and pray for the hero rather than condemn the mistake! No accident will take away #5 for this city -- and #5 would not be here if not for Big Ben!!
THANK YOU BEN and we are praying for you to get healthy. Hopefully to play football again, and if not, then to live out the wonderful life you deserve!!
-- Brian Frankel
My heartfelt prayers for Ben's full recovery.
This was a tragedy...
From my understanding, Ben had the right of way; a car turning left needs to yield. In one report, an observer quoted the driver of the car as saying, "I saw him, but he wasn't looking at me..." Why did she choose to turn?
Why this happened, only God knows...what we choose to think, feel and do with it is our "choice". Ben needs to be embraced. It was not his "risky" behavior that caused the accident. He was driving in the right of way! It was a tragic accident.
Ben is a good quarterback because of his spirit...he leads with the same. If you confine anyone or anything too tightly, no longer is there desire to become, to live, to perform...all motivation and vitality is lost.
Let's thank God, the injuries were what they were; let's give praise where thanks is due. Let's embrace Ben's spirit and give him the opportunity to continue to grow...he is still growing! As I hope we all are! Criticism and lack of support never yields the results one hopes; we can express our disappointment and give Ben the love and support he needs to pick himself back up.
Ben is a born leader; he has a vitality that is contagious; he has a love that is refreshing; he has the ability. Let's believe!
Out of the mouths of babes. My 4 yr old daughter, that has told her music and swim classes the past two days about the accident says, Oh, poor Ben, he is hurt. Let's pray for him. He will say his "my sorry" and we can tell him it will be "OK". Like you say to me mom, he can try again.
Ben deserves the same unconditional love; the forgiveness and the opportunity. Let's believe in something GREAT!
-- Nicole Breit, Wilmington, N.C.
Ben, we love you and wish you a speedy recovery. But your mistaken notion of what "freedom" means has wreaked havoc on the emotional state of the Steeler Nation. Freedom does not mean being able to do whatever you want to any time you want to do no matter who will be affected. Freedom does not mean being tethered to what popular culture deems to be "cool". Freedom does not mean living out a motorcycle fantasy depicted in a Suzuki ad.
Let me respectfully submit to you what real freedom is.
Freedom is when you have broken out of the shackles of what popular culture demands you must do in order to be considered hip.
Freedom is when you have mastered your own immature inclinations and understand that your actions can have ramifications beyond your own illusory pleasures.
And freedom is when you are not a slave to immature, 24 year old ideas that no one can tell you what to do, not the Rooneys, not Coach Cowher, not the entire Steeler Nation.
Ben, you have miraculously escaped permanent damage and hopefully will back to 100% some time this fall. Do you have the character to work on yourself and reach out to attain real freedom?
I'm betting on yes.
-- Joseph M. Glatstein, Esq., New York City
As a journalist, I try to remain objective. However, on the subject of Ben Roethlisberger, I feel I must weigh in with my opinion.
As a native Pittsburgher and lifelong Steelers fan, I cannot understand how "fans" and residents of America's greatest city can be upset with Big Ben. Should he have been wearing a helmet? Absolutely. Was it irresponsible to be driving a motorcycle with the season just months away? Probably.
However, I think one thing has gone unnoticed here -- this accident was NOT Ben's fault. Shouldn't we be upset with the 62-year-old woman who struck him? After all, she did not have the right of way, he did. It is her fault, not his, that he is in Mercy Hospital today. The anger that we are all feeling should be directed at the careless driver, not the Super Bowl-winning QB who was on his way to work.
Instead of talking about helmet laws, we should be talking about re-testing anyone 60 and older. The careless driver is the one at fault here. Charges should be filed against her. She could have killed him.
Just for a moment, imagine that the rider of the motorcycle was not Ben, but your son or daughter.
Does that change your opinion?
-- Chris Morelli, Editor, Blue White Illustrated, State College, Pa.
I wish him the best, our prayers are with him, i just wish he would wear a helmet, only reason people used to not wear helmets was they get to hot in the summer, but they have changed the ventalation so much know, that helmets are not as hot wearing them as they used to be. your head is the most important part on our bodys, at least we can protect that. good luck, he has a lot of support from his fans and team!!!!
-- Chris, Austintown, Ohio
Ben's accident was just what it was -- an accident. Nobody more than Ben didn't want it to happen. But it did. Who are we really to sit back and criticize his actions? But for those of you who must, I'll bite for just a moment. Now, I don't like motorcycles anyway, so I really have an interest in people not riding one in the first place. And yes, a helmet should have been protecting his head if he chose to ride. Tell me, do you really think he's not thinking what we all are? That he's not a miracle to have survived such a horrific, but avoidable, twist of events? However, I'm guessing that every one of us participates in activities that could easily be criticized by some member, of some organization, somewhere.
And to those of you who want his parents to speak up about his condition: Shut up. This is their son-and believe me, they know just how close they came...Let them have some time to move past the blow of that phone call and the trauma of dealing with their emotions. Ben may be our hero, our QB, our whatever you want, but all Black and Gold aside, he is theirs (regardless of contracts, money, and fame) first, and that (if we are the caring, Ben-loving, Steeler bleeding fans we claim to be) is Number One.
How about we all try a little more of this: Ben, you are one very lucky young man. You're in my thoughts and prayers and I wish you the best recovery possible. I can' t wait to proudly wear your jersey on September 7th, and for every game the rest of the season.
-- Mindy J. Murray, Findlay, Ohio
Dear Ben & The Post Gazette: Just a quick note from a long time Steeler fan now residing in Brittany, France. I too was injured on a motor cycle many, many years ago in Washington, DC! A drunk driver hit me from behind & sent me flying on a road call the Whitehurst Freeway in DC.; at the time, I was a little younger than Ben is now. All these years later, his(Ben's) accident brought back some unneeded meemories! Please let Ben know that my wife's & my prayers & thoughts are with him during his rehabilitation period. And one last thought,...please Ben, take Terry Bradshaws advice....wait until you retire from football, if & when you decide to ride again!!! Best wishes
-- William McGeehan, Brittany, France
My thoughts and prayers are with Ben as he recovers from this tragic accident. I wish him a speedy recovery and hope that Steelers fans everywhere will forgive him for his naivet? and his belief that he's infallible. Many young people live recklessly until they mature. My hope is that this incident has taught Ben a great lesson and that he'll be back on the field again soon and leading the Steelers to another Superbowl.
-- Nancy Lazenga, Minnetonka, Minn.
Best Wishes to you and your family on a speedy recovery.
All the best
From Devoted Steeler fans across the pond in Uphall, Scotland.
-- M Plommer and Family
Small but vocal pockets of the so-called "Steelers Nation", media and working-stiffs alike, need to dismount their high horses and leave the kid alone. Enough with your pretentious,superior lectures, I-told-you-so's, etc...
Maybe once upon a time you were 24. Did you carry then all the wisdom and hindsight you so richly possess now? More than likely you occasionally took stupid risks. Risks you look back on now and shudder in disbelief. That's life folks.Lessons learned and Big Ben just learned one the hard way.
What he takes from this experience is his choice and should be respected by everyone. After all, he's living his own life, not yours.
-- Greg Williams, Export
I was very sad to hear the news of Big Ben. He had so much going for him at this time, and to have this happen only goes to show 'you just never know'. My wish for him is that he has a speedy and full recovery. His health is what is important now; he is not and will not be the only person to ride without a helmet so let it be. Would have, should have, could have is all water under the bridge now. Things can happen wearing a helmet, too.
My regret is that he will not be in the Campbell's commercial that he so deserves to 'star' in. I think they should have waited a while for the filming of that, but I know they have time limits, etc. My prayers and thoughts are with Ben and his family. He is a strong young man and has a very bright future ahead of him. GO STEELERS -- THEY RULE, and Ben has a long time to bask in the glory of his accomplishments. Hope he is back with team in the fall and leads us on to another Super Bowl. We love you Ben!!
-- Joanne Waite, formerly of Pittsburgh, now living in New Orleans but wanting to move back home!
"Hey Ben, when they said 'Use your head', this is not what they meant. Try riding in a car."
-- David McBride, New Castle
Wish Ben a speedy recovery and I hope he will be able to get back to good health so he can start the season. Also I hope he learned his lesson to wear a helmet!!!!
-- Kelsey Minyon, Millville, Del.
I couldn't keep my mind on anything else when I heard about Ben's accident. I was constantly scanning the Internet, and news casts on TV. I am so glad to hear that he is doing well, and that they expect a full recovery, barring any unforeseen problems.
I guess as a life long Steeler fan, and a "Big Ben" fan, its only natural to wonder/worry about the Steelers 2006 season, and the possible implications, if any. But I am also hoping and wishing him the very best, as a person, an athlete, and a great guy. If he never plays football again, I hope and pray HE will be ok.
My son Ty and I both wish him the very best, and a quick recovery.
-- Mark Wooley, originally from Beaver Falls, currently in Lakeland, Fla.
I WOULD LIKE TO EXPRESS MY THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS TO BEN AND HIS FAMILY I AM A HUGE STEELER FAN I LIVE IN RICHMOND VA,
I KNOW THAT THIS ACCIDENT WILL NOT KEEP HIM DOWN I FEEL STRONG IN MY HEART THAT HE WILL BE BACK IN FULL FORCE, I LOOK FORWARD TO THE DAY HE IS DRESSED IN THE BLACK AND GOLD AND OUT ON THE FIELD MAKING THE MAGIC HAPPEN,
THANK YOU FROM YOUR NUMBER ONE FAN,
-- TERRINA FOXWORTH, RICHMOND Va.
Ben should have been wearing a helmet -- I haven't seen anyone disagree with that. My guess is that if he ever rides his bike again that he will do it wearing a helmet. That said, am I the only person that seems to notice that the car cut in front of him without yielding to on-coming traffic?
-- Stephen Peepels
Get well Ben , everyone From Harold's in Cave Creek, AZ are praying for a full recovery. We have faith in our Steelers and know we can prove others wrong when they tell us Pittsburgh has no chance now. Please stay off the bike!! But if you continue to ride, PLEASE wear a helmet!!!
In AZ, it is also not necessary to wear a helmet while riding a motorcycle. But when you hear on the news about an accident where the rider was not wearing a helmet, its not a good outcome. Every state should have wearing a helment, a mandatory law.
-- Christine Rodriguez, Phoenix, Ariz.
Our thoughts and prayers from the Pittsburgh Steelers Fan Club of Kansas City are with Ben and his family as he starts his road to recovery. We obviously hope for his timely return to the football field, but much more importantly we hope he makes a full recovery for the sake of his personal life. I had a co-worker who was involved in a motorcycle accident strikingly similar to Big Ben's (car made left turn in front of him, he was wearing no helmet). He went over the car, but when he landed he struck his head on a concrete curb. He survived, but his injuries were such that he could not continue his employment as a law enforcement officer. Ben is fortunate to have an early prognosis that he will make a full recovery to play again. I guess just as football is a game of inches, so are accidents
Get well Ben. We're rooting for your good health here in KC.
-- Rob, Kansas City
All the best on your recovery! The Lord was watching after you! Can't wait until September 7th to see you on the field!
-- The Aiken Family, Smugglers' Notch, Vt., Rob, Penny, Chad, Brooke, Kelsey , Savannah & Big Ben! (our 5 month old yellow lab!)
I am a Miami University alum and a huge fan of Big Ben. At the same time, I am astounded that he would ignore the advice and wisdom of so many people related to the riding of a motorcycle, especially without the protection of a helmet. Nonetheless, I, like countless others, pray for his complete healing. The reality of this situation is that Ben is fortunate to be alive. Ben is a professing Christian. As one of the same faith, I pray that he is thanking his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ for protecting his life and will now internalize the essence of Romans 8:28 and allow God to use this event for "good" in his life and in the lives of others.
-- Bill Holko, Wadsworth, Ohio
Ben get well. can't be critical of the accident. unlike Winslow Ben was not being an idiot on the bike and this was an ACCIDENT! he owes the fans nothing other than to play his best when he is on the field.
my heart goes out to his family for what they went through and are now having to go through with all the 'better than thou' group.
-- Jim Leasure, Pittsburgh native in Dayton, Ohio
I just pray that he will recover and go on to win us yet another SUPERBOWL. And people need to stop judging him God is the only judge I know who means anything. Just pray for him and his family and we will all be the better for it.
-- Vanessa Williams
I thought Ben was more mature than this. Obviously he is still a carefree young man who is adamant about living his life the way he wants. None of us can control that, so we have to just hope he makes good decisions. Despite this apparently not being his fault, it was still not a wise decision to go without a helmet. Hopefully for his own sake and the future of the team, he will recover completely. Worse things in the world have happened, so let's be thankful he is simply alive to live another day.
-- Harvey M. Aronson, Jacksonville, Fla.
Two words -- poor judgment. I am sick of all the comments that Ben has the right to do what he wants to do during the offseason. No, he doesn't. He has a responsiblity, not just on the field, but off. He has a responsibility to his coach, his teammates, and, quite frankly, Steeler Nation. My reason for this is because he signed a contract worth millions of dollars to play for one of the best (if not THE best) football teams that has ever existed . He has an obligation to play to the best of his ability. He gets paid what he does because of the tens of thousands of season ticket holders who pay a lot of money to see a good football team. He is also paid millions more in endorsements because of who he is. Quite frankly, the Steelers organization "owns" him while under contract. They DO have a right to tell him what he should and should not do. And, if he doesn't agree with their rules? Then, quit playing, sit at home and watch the games on Sunday from your living room, while someone else, more responsible, will take the Steelers to the next Super Bowl. I can bet money that Ben would not choose the latter.
Whether we like it or not, athletes become role models for children. What does Ben think his actions and lack of judgement teaches the children in this country who idolize the Steelers and look up to Ben?
I hope he is ok, but if he still refuses to wear a helmet after all this, I will lose all respect for him.
I am a huge Steeler fan just like the tens of thousands of other people around this country, which is why I am so outraged at his poor lack of judgment. I do wish him well, and I hope Coach Cowher and the Steelers organization make sure to add a few more clauses in his next contract.
-- Jennifer Dunn, El Paso, Texas
Get well soon. I pray for a speedy recovery and I still believe your choice is your choice. I ride myself and yes sometimes I don't wear a helmet but most times I do. It's a choice. People forget that you are a 24 year old PERSON! You have a job and yes you make headlines. But why do people forget that you are human? When you are off the field it's your time. To hell with the rest! Yes I am a STEELERS FAN born and raised. Live your life for yourself. This could have been and still might be a career ending accident. No one but you would have lost the monies and endorsements for your choice. You are the only one that has to pay that piper.
-- Doris L. Neibauer, Summerville S.C.
As a Steelers fan for 30 years and a motorcyclist for over 20 years (started with dirt bikes moved to sport bikes and now ride a custom cruiser) I can honestly say that a I do NOT believe in helmet laws but rather personal accountability. I do wear a helmet, not because it's the law in VA but because I value my family and health. I also ride frequently in FL, no helmet laws there, but I still wear my half helmet b/c you NEVER can anticipate the actions of others, especially the people who don't ride but drive with a cell phone in one ear, coffee in the other hand and screaming kids in the car...Ben please don't give up the bike, its part of you, get back on two wheels as soon as you can but PLEASE buy a helmet, I can even have one custom made for you if you'd like ... free of charge.
-- Roger, Woodbridge Va.
I have a bit of a different opinion on the matter. He is a grown man that makes his own mind up. The man has a life also not everything revolves around football. Dont get me wrong i'am a die hard true blue steelers fanatic but. Everyone seems to think of Ben as a race horse thats just suppose to do his job and then back to the stable but thats not the case at all. Also thats why its called an accident i beleive on either part this was intentional ... lol. So good luck god bless and get well.
-- Christopher Wilson, Aliquippa
Having raised 2 son's, my wife and I both know that 24 year olds think they are invincible. As we have done over the years with our son's. we forgive them and pray they learn from their mistakes. We both wish Ben a full recovery and hope he has learned from his mistake.
-- Ed & JoAnn, Surprise, Ariz.
It is great to hear that a full recovery is expected and that your life and career are likely to be unaffected by your unfortunate accident. Now, please be a friend of us die-hard Steelers fans and promise not to ride motorcycles anymore. Bradshaw is right. Wait until you retire. Heck, you'll still be a very young man and then you'll only have your wife and kids to nag at you about your safety. Also, please tell Mr. Rooney that he needs to give up his risky habits too. He doesn't need to be flying himself around anymore. We need you both to be around awhile.
-- Dan Cooper, Saint Albans, W.Va.
I've read some of the posts from fellow Steelers fan, and I just want to add my two cents. Roethlisberger is a 24-year old Kid. Yes, he did something stupid by riding his motorcycle without a helmet, (and apparently without a license), but come on, people! Cut the kid a break. I keep saying kid because that's what he truly is. And like all kids, he didn't think anything bad could happen to him. Obviously, he was wrong, and I'm sure he's learned from it. Let's spare the lectures, and the "I told you so's" because they serve no purpose here. What's done is done. He's most likely going to recover, and be a stronger, wiser person . .and quarterback out on the field. We all do stupid things at times. How many of us have NEVER gone over the speed limit in our cars? How many of us have driven when we've had a little too much to drink? Come on, people. Cut Roethlisberger a break. He and the Steelers just won the Superbowl. Let's cheer them on to another Superbowl victory instead of sitting here on our high horses. GO STEELERS! Get well soon, Ben.
-- Sandy Porter, Clarion
Get well, get strong, and get back on the field; and please, stay the hell off that bike, at least until you help fill the other hand with Super Bowl rings.
-- Patrick J. DePaul, Phoenix, Ariz.
The problem isn't with Ben. It's with the state law, which punishes taxpayers and insurance holders by forcing us to pay for others' recklessness. If adults want to ride without helmets, fine, but make them pay back the city for the ambulance ride and their insurers for their reconstructive surgery.
-- Matthew S. Meisel, Squirrel Hill
First, I am sure that all will agree that all any of us want is Ben to recover fully from his injuries and to get back on the field and win another SB ... that said, as soon as he is up and about and working out at full strength, I hope the defensive line takes him out back and kicks his A#@! Someone needs to remind him that he is part of a TEAM -- a BIG part, and he needs to grow up and lead his team.
Ben, get better, play like hell and heed Bradshaw's words, 'ride your bike when you retire'.
-- Terry Carroll, Malibu Ca.
Well, what can I say.but shock at first.and then disappointmentand finally anger!!
I hate to be the one to say, "I told you so." But damn it, the world told him so!! First his coach, then the players and they even brought back a legend. Some guy by the name of Bradshaw to try to talk some sense into him. In the end, everyone failed, including Ben. He failed to be the "hero" that Pittsburghers and the legion of fans nationwide who all follow Steelers football and bleed black and gold. He also failed to do the honorable thing by being honest to his fans. In an interview with ESPN on 13 July 2005, he claimed that he rides with friends, he doesn't ride racing bikes and do stupid things like speed. As a fan, I feel betrayed by his words and angry. On crash day, he didn't ride with friends. The 2005 Suzuki Hayabusa is NOT a cruiser bike as Ben claimed to only ride and being stupid or doing stupid stuff on the bike, well, I'll leave that to your imagination. I don't know how the world view this, but riding without a helmet is about just as stupid as one can get.
-- Peter Tao, Fairfax, Va.
I wish Mr. Roethlisberger a complete and trouble free recovery. I know it will not be expedient but I do not wish injury to anyone.
Point two: Pennsylvania has way too many vehicle accidents, most preventable. Mr. Ben made a careless decision not to wear a helmet. I think it foolish for Pennsylvania not to have a helmet law. Motorcycles are widely used here in Europe and the driving schools think it madness not to wear headgear.
Come on Pennsylvania, strengthen your vehicle codes and driving behaviours. Personal freedom is subordinate to personal responsibility.
I still cheer for the Steelers and Pirates (bring back the 1960 team please).
Best wishes Ben but grow up a little pal, we need you 100% on the field.
-- Zeno F. Henninger, Echternacherbrueck, Germany
I'm Relieved that Big Ben is alive and recovering. More than the QB of the Pittsburgh Steelers, Ben Roethlisberger is a 24-year old kid that narrowly escaped death. I'm hoping that Big Ben will go from defiantly going sans helmet to becoming a vocal spokesperson on the matter. His near tragedy might help save the life of other young people. Get well soon Ben!
-- Vince Rubino, Cleveland, Ohio
Right now, I pray that Big Ben is okay.
Once he's well, there'll be plenty of time to be irritated. How can a man who wears a helmet to protect himself from other athletes running on a grass surface, pretend that he doesn't need a helmet to protect himself from cars driving on a concrete surface?
Heal well, BB, and then knock it off!
-- Jimmy Straightline, Sacramento, Calif.
Here is a man who gave his body so you too could learn a lesson.
I've spent a majority of my life on two wheels. If I could say anything to Ben or any rider, there is no such thing as being careful on your motorcyle, you can never relax, NEVER.
I'm really sorry for his mom and dad that they have to see their boy like that. Parents hardly ever have it easy. My heart goes out to them, and I pray for Ben as I do for any rider, take the "cheap" lessons in life.
As far as football is concerned, a famous droid once said, "it's so good to see you fully functional again."
We love to see you play, it's that simple.
-- Jamie Tine, Santa Ana, Ca.
I found it interesting that in photos of Coach Cower arriving at Mercy hospital to visit Ben, that it appeared that he was not wearing his seat belt. If true,that's almost as stupid as riding a motorcycle without a helmet.
-- Kenny "Hubbs" Williams, Los Angeles, Ca.
As a die-hard Steeler fan now living in the Rocky Mountains of Colorado its unfortunate to hear about this accident. As an avid motorcyclist (myself) I wish Ben would prepare to ride his motorcycle like he would for a football game. Riding a motorcycle is inherently dangerous and riding a motorcycle without a helmet is not a wise decision. I hope that Ben stands up and admits his "lack of judgment" and becomes an advocate for helmets. His football and celebrity status would help improve the bad image of motorcycling. I have no doubt in my mind if he was wearing a full face helmet and the proper gear this incident would be minor one instead of a huge embarrassing moment in his life that was plastered all over the TV world.
God Bless Big Ben and the Steelers.
-- George Andrews, Dillon, Colo.
First of all THANK THE LORD,THE FOOTBALL GODS AND BIG BEN HIMSELF for being one tough guy. I think Big Ben will recover quickly, hes young and has the heart and desire of a champion. As a lifelong fan I was shocked to wake up on the west coast to a thousand messages on my cell phone the day of the accident. My ma even called me!! Rumors of injury to Ben's knees were not a concern at the time and mostly being spread on the Internet and around the water coolers of America. I couldn't believe how rude and malicious people could be. The guy is a 24 year old man who just one the super bowl for one of the most legendary football towns in the country. Should he be riding without a helmet? I want to say no, but hey its not the law and things happen. Of course he has obligations and responsibilities to his team and the fans, but also deserves a ride on his bike. Accidents happen and I'm sure Ben wont ride without a helmet again. If he does I support him!! When you work so hard as a professional athlete you should be allowed to enjoy your life in the off season the way you want to. Again he does have obligations but also is responsible for alot of revenue and fanfare. The bottom line here is Ben dodged a bullet and lived. I'm just glad hes OK. I cant wait till the Steelers Win Superbowl 41!! Things like this just teach us that football isn't everythingI mean yes it is! Get well big guy and will see you on the field in September.
-- Joe Melfi, Las Vegas
Please accept my wishes for a speedy and complete recovery. I am sorry you had to go through this traumatic experience.
My hope is that your experience has an effect on you like my son's motorcycle accident near Circleville, OH, had on him when he was age 21: Scott reassessed the damage to his body and the inherent risks of bike riding on streets and highways. Without my saying a word, he took the insurance company check to the bank, paid off the bike and never replaced it.
Twenty-plus years later, he gets his thrills riding in a pristine 1979 Camaro and travels to Charlotte, Dallas and other cities as a fan of NASCAR racing -- along with his 3 sons. Oh, by the way, he also enjoys the thrills you and the Pittsburgh Steelers provide. Good job in 2005/2006! My wife and I moved to Ohio in 1961 from Western PA. We love Central Ohio but root for the Steelers. So, here we go, Steelers, here we go! Here we go Big Ben, here we go!
Luv Big Ben and the Steelers but come onnnnnnn Big Ben ... you are smarter than that. Your responsibilities are to the Steeler's organization. Plenty of play time after your career. Now you are the perfect fit for Cambell's Soup commercial, cause that's all your gonna be eating for awhile.
Get well big guy ... we got a title to defend.
-- Shawn Secrest, Monaca
If the Steelers were a publicly owned company whose stock traded on the exchange the share price would have dropped by 50% over the last two days. This coming season will be a write off for Ben and therefore the team. How could they let this happen?
-- Phil Brancazio, Boca Raton, Fla.
Ben:
As a life long Steeler fan , I wish you a speedy recovery and well enough to lead the Steelers to another Super Bowl Championship.
-- Dan Lessa, Brook Park, Ohio
I find it interesting the the governor of Pennsylvania believes it is a riders choice to wear a helmet, but wearing seatbelts isn't? Also, do you need a valid motorcycle license to buy a motorcycle?
-- Clark Suckling, Mount Airy, Md.
Living in the Washington D.C. metro area I am growing tired of the local sports radio personalities bashing Ben by calling him an idiot among other things. I do wish that he'd at least wear a helmet, better yet take Bradshaw's advice and park it until he retired, that aside there are two things that make this incident different than most pro-athlete "risk-taking" mishaps.
The law in Pennsylvania does not require helmets to be worn.
He was going to work, not hot dogging in a parking lot i.e. Winslow, or doing 120 on a back country road.
Don't get me wrong, I have felt the full range of emotions since this story broke, fear / dread when the headline popped up "Big Ben in Motorcycle accident", to relief that his injuries were not life or career threatening, to anger that he would jeopardize the season for his team as well as the fans. My thoughts and prayers are with Ben and his family during his recuperation, get well soon Ben!
-- Brad Clark, Fredericksburg, Va.
Well, the news of Ben's accident is a great shock, especially considering the history of the issue. I think we (Pittsburgers) need to stand by Ben and his family in this time, and take this time reflect and learn from what has happened. Ben is a young man at the beginning of what I'm sure will be a long and sucessful career in Pittsburgh. He has earned a special place in our hearts through his acts on hte field, and through showing strong character within the team and the city. Let us all accept this incident as part of his (and our) learning and above all stand by him and his family.
-- Eric Weber, Moon Twp.
I am happy that the surgery went well and that 100% recovery is the outlook. I have been policing for 9 years working in the traffic division at my department. I ride a motorcycle for my duty vehicle and own a sport bike for my off time. We allow riders per state law to make their decision to wear a helmet if they are over 21 years of age. I wear a helmet on and off duty and contribute the horrible crashes that I have seen in the past to the reason I wear one. I have seen several fatalities from head injuries with accidents at speeds as slow as 35 miles per hour. I don't believe that I have worked a fatality collision with a motorcycle that was not a head injury and never have worked a fatality with a rider wearing a helmet. Anything can happen on a motorcycle even if you wear a helmet but the risk of not wearing a protective helmet is crazy. I did not investigate this accident involving Mr.Roethlisberger but it sounds that every serious injury he received in the accident could have been prevented with a helmet. I hope the recovery is quick and "Big Ben" has learned from his mistake. No matter how safe you think you areit is the other person you have to watch out for. He has been given a second chance and I hope he realizes this. Good luck Ben. Get well soon.
-- Shon McCluskey, Myrtle Beach, S.C.
One thing that the accident proves about Big Ben is that he has a VERY HARD HEAD.
-- David H. Trushel, Sarasota, Fla.
Wishing Ben a full and speedy recovery. And ride again! But stay off the rice-burners. Ride a Harley and stay laid back.
-- Mel Smith, Marco Island, Fla.
I've been a Steelers fan for 33 of my 53 years and my wife of 6 years has been a fan for 6 years. We have that affect on people.
My initial reaction to Ben's accident was "Stupid, Stupid, Stupid." Of course I was being selfish and just thinking about how this could hurt our chances of a repeat. Then the reality of it all set in and all I could think about was Ben. How bad was it really. I saw the pictures of the bike and I felt sick. This had to be bad. I am a motorcyclist also and always wear a helmet. CT doesn't have a helmet law either. Ben should have had one on. That's just stating the obvious. The fact is Ben is a young man at the top of his profession and probably felt a bit invincible. At his age, maybe the common sense gene hasn't developed yet.
Now, two days later, I must say that I don't want to place blame on anyone for any of this. It was an accident. Was it avoidable? I don't know. Would a helmet have prevented the head injuries? Maybe. Will he learn from this? I really hope so.
Jerome Bettis made the comment that if Ben can't play it would cripple the franchise. I tend to agree with him. Ben is the leader of this offense. He makes it all work. We need him. We have the opportunity to win, a lot, with Ben over center. It would be a shame to lose all that because if this accident. But it's just football. We should be more concerned with Bens health and then worry about the game.
Latest reports are that Ben will be able to play. Probably start the first game in against Miami. I hope so. But more importantly, I hope Ben has a speedy recovery and can get back to a normal life.
Thank you for the opportunity to express my thoughts and feelings.
And to Ben, don't give up riding. Just WEAR A HELMET.
-- Don Korn, Griswold, Conn.
My name is SCOTT T RANDALL and I live in BROAD CHANNEL QUEENS, NEW YORK. First off, thank god he is alive and has a chance to fully recover. I wish his health and his family peace before I worry about football. Now, I can understand and respect his passion for riding motorcycles but I don't respect the fact that he was asked not to ride by Mr. cowher and was warned by the Rooney's and many others but he still did it. Ride off season and that's his business, ride during the start of camp through the regular season then he makes it all our business. The gooneys pay him, we pay the Rooney's. Its almost as if god was sending down hints to stop riding when Winslow got hurt, cowher and everyone else warned him then bam, life slaps you in the face, literally for him. I pray that this lesson was learned and he can fully heal and maybe enjoy a career and normal life. Thanks. Scott
"Being very careful" doesn't always do the trick. Someone turned left in front of him, and there he went. My 18 year old son was being very careful, and someone turned left in front of him. He wasn't so lucky. A rib was driven throught his heart, and he died there on the street. Ben Rothlisberger may have thought that because he is young and so strong and agile, that he is immortal. Perhaps he will rethink. I hope so . I rooted for him on the field, and I'll root for him to mature, and show more sense than God gave a goose.
-- Marjorie Wells, Midlothian, Va.
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