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| Sherry Pollex (Photo: Glenn Roberson Photography) |
Sherry Pollex, a prominent figure in the NASCAR community known for her philanthropic efforts to fight cancer, has passed away at the age of 44. Her family announced her death on Sunday, citing cancer as the cause. Pollex was instrumental in establishing Catwalk for a Cause, a charity fashion gala aimed at combatting childhood cancer. Since its founding in 2010, the event has raised over $4 million to fund initiatives against the disease. Having been diagnosed with Stage 3 ovarian cancer in 2014, Pollex expanded her charitable works to support research and advancements in ovarian cancer treatment. In 2020, her foundation partnered with Novant Health to open the Sherry Strong Integrative Medicine Oncology Clinic in Charlotte. Alongside former partner Martin Truex Jr., Pollex was honored with the Myers Brothers Award by the National Motorsports Press Association in 2017 for their outstanding contributions to stock-car racing. She was also a finalist for the Comcast Community Champion of the Year Award in 2022.
The most recent edition of Catwalk for a Cause, held just last week, paid tribute to Pollex, who was unable to attend. The event's co-hosts praised her as a hero, prompting a standing ovation from the attendees. NASCAR released a statement expressing sadness over Pollex's passing and acknowledging her inspirational fight against cancer, as well as her dedication to helping others through the Sherry Strong Foundation.
Pollex, born in Marshall, Michigan in 1979, grew up in close proximity to Michigan International Speedway. She and her family would often attend NASCAR races, with Pollex sporting a Rusty Wallace T-shirt alongside her sister. Prior to her involvement in racing, Pollex was a devoted fan of the Detroit Red Wings hockey team. When she was diagnosed with cancer, the Red Wings sent her a care package and a get-well letter. Her father, Greg Pollex, was involved in NASCAR as both a racer and a team owner. The family later moved to Florida, and Sherry Pollex attended Florida State University, graduating with a degree in Sports Marketing. This eventually led her to work in marketing with NASCAR.
Pollex and Martin Truex Jr. met during Truex's rise in the Xfinity Series and used their platform to support philanthropic causes. Their partnership ended after 18 years in January. Following her own diagnosis with Stage 3 ovarian cancer in 2014, Pollex underwent an emergency surgery to remove affected organs and began chemotherapy. Despite the odds, she survived and continued to inspire others with her positive outlook. In 2016, she celebrated the end of her chemotherapy treatment with the ringing of a bell.
Unfortunately, Pollex's cancer returned in 2021 and proved to be resistant to treatment. Despite this setback, she remained hopeful and grateful for each day. Pollex believed that her purpose was to pave the way for other women through her experience with cancer. She acknowledged the difficulty of being the face of a specific type of cancer but embraced the opportunity to leave a lasting legacy and help others.
Sherry Pollex leaves behind a powerful legacy as a champion for important causes and an unwavering advocate in the fight against cancer. Her impact on the NASCAR community and beyond will continue to inspire and make a difference.
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