A former Ohio State and NFL star was in the Valley Saturday to help raise money and awareness for cancer.

Ten year NFL veteran Chris Spielman was the special guest at the Salem Regional Medical Center Foundation's 9th annual Hearts and Stars Gala.

The Gala was held at the Vineyards at Pine Lake in Columbiana.

Spielman has been fundraising to find a cure for cancer for over 20 years.

The northeast Ohio native's late wife passed away in 2009 after multiple battles against breast cancer.

According to ESPN, Spielman supported his wife by shaving his head during her chemotherapy treatments.

Spielman continues his fight against cancer and praised northeast Ohio for their help in the fight.

"I think northeast Ohio represents a willingness and a toughness and people with fight. I think when you are fighting an opponent like cancer, that's the kind of people you want on your side." Spielman said.

If you would like to donate to your local hospital, you can contact the Foundation through their website.