MEDIA ADVISORY/PHOTO OPPORTUNITY:
Pittsburgh Steelers to Participate in ‘Gridiron Gaming’ Fundraiser at UPMC Institute for Rehabilitation and Research
WHAT: Gridiron Gaming is a fundraising event to help the UPMC Institute for Rehabilitation and Research (IRR) develop wellness programming for people with physical disabilities and to announce the establishment of the IRR’s gaming and robotics center.
Attendees will explore the IRR’s cutting-edge rehab technology and compete against Pittsburgh Steelers players in games of Nintendo Wii, the popular virtual video game that also serves as a fun rehab tool at the IRR.
WHO: Steelers tackle Max Starks and IRR director Mike Boninger, M.D., will speak at the event. Ten Steelers players from the starting lineup, additional IRR representatives and local donors also will be in attendance.
WHEN: 6:30 to 9 p.m., Tuesday, Nov. 17, 2009
WHERE: IRR Spinal Cord Injury Unit, located at UPMC Mercy
WHY: People with physical disabilities have a higher risk of developing health conditions associated with lack of exercise, such as heart disease and diabetes. Maintaining physical activity, though a challenge, is possible for people with disabilities; however, specialized exercise equipment is not commonly available. Proceeds from Gridiron Gaming will help the IRR strengthen disability-focused wellness programming throughout the region and achieve its long-term goal of developing an accessible fitness center.
The IRR’s gaming and robotics center will promote optimal recovery for patients by providing them with the latest rehabilitation technology. Rehab devices with gaming features motivate patients to move as part of a game, making therapeutic exercise more fun and effective. The robotic technology assists with therapeutic movement for patients with paralysis. Stroke, spinal cord injury and traumatic brain injury patients are some who will benefit from the new center.
Event sponsors include Bakery Square, MBM Contracting Inc., Hanger Prosthetics and Orthotics, and Union Orthotics and Prosthetics Company.
Note to media: To attend Gridiron Gaming or for directions and parking information, please contact Stacey Simon at (412) 417-0825 or e-mail SimonSL@upmc.edu.