Former Steeler Speaks at 'United We Can' Opener

Former Pittsburgh Steeler Rocky Bleier spoke at the season opener of the United We Can Luncheon on Sept. 21 at The Casino at Lakemont.

Bleier's message to the almost-capacity crowd was no matter what obstacles that you may face in your life, don't give up. Instead, find a solution and overcome. Bleier emphasized that it is easy to quit at times, but you never know when that turnaround point is going to be.

Bleier said that he thinks that the biggest takeaway received should be to not giving up. Overcome obstacles and have a plan.

"That is what this organization does," Bleier said. "Just to be able to expose all of us, kids, specifically, at a time when they are changing. The underlying message is just to do your best. To do the best job that you could do in that realm of possibilities. There are people along the way that will help you or guide you that want to, whether it be teachers, counselors or parents or coaches or someone who gives you that opportunity. You, hopefully have to listen to them."

According to Bleier, it's important to visualize what you want to get accomplished.

"I think that's the biggest thing and not giving up saying, 'I could never do that' or 'I don't get the support' or whatever it may be," Bleier said.

The United We Can luncheons continue on Oct. 5 with Miss Pennsylvania 2022 Alysa Bainbridge's presentation "More Than: A Story of Turning Tragedy into Triumph."

Retired PA State Trooper and Army Veteran Tim Strohmeyer will speak about "Desperate Beginnings" on Oct. 19.

Luncheons begin at noon.