NASCAR Racer Martin Truex Jr. Cancels Friday Practice Due To Girlfriend's Ovarian Cancer

The girlfriend of a well-known NASCAR racer is reportedly receiving surgery for ovarian cancer, a team release indicated Wednesday.

Martin Truex Jr., who competes with Furniture Row Racing, will reportedly miss his Friday practice at the Michigan International Speedway Friday so he can be with his girlfriend, Sherry Pollex, as she undergoes surgery for ovarian cancer. The couple has been dating for nine years.

"Sherry and Martin would like to thank the #NASCAR community for all the well wishes," Furniture Row Racing said in a press release, adding that the couple "have requested that everyone respect the family's privacy as Sherry begins her treatment and recovery."

Furniture Row Racing's general manager Joe Garone added in a statement that "Everyone at Furniture Row Racing extends their thoughts and prayers to Sherry during her treatment and recovery period."

"She is a devoted supporter of our race team and we can't wait for her return to the track."

Truex will reportedly miss his opportunity to qualify by not racing on Friday, and Matt Crafton will replace Truex at the race.

Pollex, who is well-known in the NASCAR community, tweeted on Wednesday: "Thank you so much for all the prayers!!! I'm going to need them. But I'm a fighter. I can beat this!! Cancer picked the wrong chick."

Pollex has become known for her dedication to spreading awareness for pediatric cancer, organizing numerous fundraising events for the Martin Truex Jr. Foundation to raise money for pediatric cancer programs across the nation.