Steelers President Art Rooney II was honored at the Western Pennsylvania Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF) 2014 Rainbow Gala for his commitment to making a difference in the lives of those living with Type 1 diabetes (T1D). The dinner, held at the Westin Convention Center Hotel, served as a fundraiser to help JDRF continue their quest to find a cure for the disease.
"We are proud to be partnering with Art in this way, and are grateful to him for all he has done to make this event a success," said Carol Yannuzzi, Executive Director of JDRF, Western PA Chapter. "It's more than his respected name; it's his personal connection to T1D and dedication to improving lives that has made the difference."
For Rooney the battle to fight diabetes and find a cure is personal, as several in his family suffer from it.
"I have had a number of people in our family that have suffered with diabetes," said Rooney. "I know a lot of people that have had to deal with. I have seen first-hand what diabetics have to deal with on a daily basis."
Rooney was presented with his award by former Steelers offensive lineman Kendall Simmons, who also has diabetes.
"Hopefully we are getting closer to a cure, hopefully within our lifetime," said Rooney. "It's one of those things where a lot of progress has been made and hopefully we are not far away from if not finding a cure, finding a solution that will make a difference in a lot of people's lives. It's great to be a part of something that is making a difference."
