By Teresa Varley
Steelers.com
Throughout the month of October the Steelers have shown a commitment to the fight against breast cancer and that continued when Heath and Katie Miller hosted Bid for Hope VIII at Bossa Nova.
The event benefits Glimmer of Hope, a foundation that is committed to raising funds for breast cancer research and finding a cure.
"It's for a great cause," said Heath Miller, whose cousin successfully battled the disease. "It's something that has been a part of the Steelers for a while now. It's such a good thing. It's important for us to contribute."
Miller was among the players who sported pink during the first two games in October, including a "little" bit of pink in his game shoes.
"I think all of the players enjoyed doing it and were proud to wear pink," said Miller. "The shoes they first made for me didn't feel right, plus they were a little bright. I was able to put a little pink in there on the second pair."
Miller's wife didn't mind seeing him in pink and knows that the whole initiative helped open eyes as to how many people's lives have been impacted by breast cancer, especially some of Miller's teammates.
"I don't think they realize how many women are affected by it," said Katie Miller. "When you show them statistics and how important it is to wear pink I think it makes them realize it and they get a better understanding that it is a really important cause and needs acknowledgement."
Almost 20 current Steelers players were on hand for the event, signing autographs for guests, along with a handful of former players who mingled with those in attendance.
"The guys who come to this do it because they feel a passion for this cause and are donating their time to be here," said Miller.
One of the main projects of Glimmer of Hope is funding an under-40 breast cancer study to help those who are diagnosed at a young age, and having the Steelers bring the study to the forefront has been a huge boost for the organization.
"The Steelers exposure helps tremendously," said Diana Napper, the founder of Glimmer of Hope. "What they do on the field is so important, and it's great. What they do off is so important to an organization like mine. It is one thing to be able to catch a ball, throw a pass. But to take time out of your day to help another human being says a lot for the organization and the people they employ."
A silent and live auction filled with Steelers memorabilia and other amazing items also helps in the efforts to raise funds and the money all goes directly to research.
