Ryan Shazier’s NFL career was forever changed in an instant. During a December 2017 tackle, the former Pittsburgh Steelers star suffered a devastating spinal injury that temporarily paralyzed his lower body and required emergency stabilization surgery. But Shazier isn’t just a survivor—he’s a champion for others facing similar battles.
On May 15, the two-time Pro Bowler will host the "Run for the Black and Gold" charity event at Acrisure Stadium in Pittsburgh. It’s not your typical fundraiser. This unique horse race and celebrity jockey auction brings a playful twist to a serious cause. Instead of real horses, celebrity participants roll dice to determine which steed crosses the finish line first. The 50-50 raffle structure means half the proceeds go directly to the Ryan Shazier Fund for Spinal Rehabilitation—and Shazier notes that winners often donate their half right back.
“It’s a really cool setup,” Shazier shared. “It’s like a gala, but instead of just having a traditional gala, it allows people to have fun, have drinks, dress up a little bit and do something a little different than your usual foundation or corporate event.”
Shazier’s mission extends beyond the football field. He created the Ryan Shazier Fund for Spinal Rehabilitation in 2020 to help spinal cord injury patients navigate their recovery journeys. He’s quick to point out that these life-altering injuries aren't limited to sports. “It can happen to anyone at any given time,” he explained. “A lot of people think it can be from sports or riding a bike, but unfortunately someone gets hurt with a spinal cord injury pretty much every minute of the day.” He shared stories of people injured by falling on a cat at home, tripping into an oven, tumbling down stairs, or being in a car accident. “They are very simple things that people can be hurt from, that can be life-changing.”
The event brings together Shazier’s Steelers legacy—he was an All-American at Ohio State before becoming a first-round draft pick—with a star-studded lineup of celebrity jockeys. It’s a night of fun, fashion, and fierce support for a cause that hits close to home. Whether you’re a Steelers fan or simply someone inspired by resilience, this is one race you won’t want to miss.