JuJu Smith-Schuster Hosts Fundraiser Luau Despite Shoulder Injury
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver JuJu Smith-Schuster may have had his shoulder in a sling, but that didn’t stop him from hosting his foundation’s second annual luau Monday night.
Just hours after reports emerged that he will undergo shoulder surgery and likely miss the remainder of the 2021, Smith-Schuster donned a Hawaiian shirt and put on a smile to host the event, which raised a combined $50,000 for the Boys and Girls Club of Western Pa. and Reading is FUNdamental.
On Monday, @TeamJuJu hosted his second annual @JuJuFoundation Luau, a night to honor his Samoan heritage while at the same time help those he serves through the foundation.
— Steelers Community Relations (@SteelersCR) October 12, 2021
📝: https://t.co/jeIwaXsOXV pic.twitter.com/HGvZPExNvx
“I know it may seem like times are tough, but right now I am happy in adversity,” Smith-Schuster told Steelers.com. “I am happy because this is God’s plan. There is something that was said in our receiver’s room, we call it positive land where you stay in a positive mindset and let God do the rest. This is part of the process.”
A celebration of Smith-Schuster’s Samoan heritage, the night was traditional down to the attire, decoration, food and entertainment. They even roasted a pig.
Dinner time at the @JuJuFoundation Luau in Pittsburgh! Brining the Aloha to the Steel City. 🤙🏽🌺 pic.twitter.com/rAWKe62ptJ
— JuJu Foundation (@JuJuFoundation) October 11, 2021
For Smith-Schuster, it’s all about honoring his family and upbringing.
“I grew up in a household with 23 people,” Smith-Schuster told Steelers.com. “It’s unreal that my family and myself are able to do this. I never thought I would have the opportunity or to be someone to be able to give back in so many different ways. I am just so blessed. I am so thankful to them.”
Multiple teammates of Smith-Schuster’s were in attendance, including fellow wideouts Chase Claypool and James Washington, along with defensive tackle Tyson Alualu.
Smith-Schuster suffered a separated shoulder in Pittsburgh’s victory over the Denver Broncos on Sunday.
He had caught 15 passes for 129 yards on the season, while also rushing for a score.
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