Ten years. $1 million raised.
Former Steelers defensive end Brett Keisel is no longer growing hair on his face for the annual “Shear Da Beard” charity event.
But the fan favorite will be remembered for all the times he allowed his teammates and other celebrities to be his barber.
A dedication ceremony was held Wednesday at UPMC Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh in Lawrenceville to recognize Keisel for his annual fundraiser: “10 Years, 10 Beards, $1 Million.”
For the past decade, Keisel has invited fans to watch while celebrity barbers went to work. Last year Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger, defensive tackle Cam Heyward and former linebacker James Harrison were among those handling the clippers.
The recognition included an unveiling of a large mural.
Keisel said via email his greatest memories from Shear Da Beard are all of the families.
“I got a chance to meet some different families each year,” he said. “And to be able to watch them grow up over the years. It’s been amazing.”
Thank to everyone who showed up and had an impact with #ShearDaBeard. We made a difference together. 10 years, 10 Beards and 1 M! Couldn’t have done it without the fans, sponsors and teammates. Love you all. Keep making a difference! This is a tribute to you. @ChildrensPgh pic.twitter.com/FqaUiwxAXa
— Brett Keisel (@bkeisel99) October 15, 2020
Rachel Petrucelli, president of the Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh Foundation, said Keisel’s advocacy “brings awareness to what we do here and the special care that is delivered. He united a community, including all of Steelers nation, in all that he did to support UPMC Children’s.”
The mural shows Keisel as a player as well as images from past “Shear Da Beard” events. It also has this quote above Keisel’s signature: “When you set a goal you can achieve it. When you see those children in the hospital and you see the day they are having and the type of fight they are in … you want to help.”
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There is an auction for iconic “Shear Da Beard” memorabilia. People can bid here. Proceeds will benefit the cancer and blood disorder programs at Children’s Hospital.
Dedication ceremony held at UPMC Children’s Hospital to recognize Brett Keisel https://t.co/2Rv11FfdYf
— Mike Holden (@WPXIMikeHolden) October 15, 2020
Originally from Greybull, Wyo., Keisel was drafted by the Steelers in 2002. The 41-year-old now lives in Pittsburgh with his wife, Sarah, and their three children, Jacob, Grace and William.
Keisel started growing out his beard in 2010 as a good luck charm. He said he was influenced by the Pittsburgh Penguins’ 2009 Stanley Cup win.
