NEW ORLEANS (WGNO) – 13 years ago, Douglas and Wendy Linebarger learned they were going to be having a baby. 5-months into the pregnancy, a doctor told them their son, Adam, would have Spina Bifida.
“The first doctor we consulted with told us he might not make it home after being born,” said Douglas.
But Adam lived and has done some incredible things.He’s met a lot of celebrities, from actors to superstar chefs, from beauty queens to the President. He is also an honorary 610 Stomper (his nickname “Cat Fish”).
Recently, he saw a video of the dance group performing in a Special Olympics “Over the Edge: SWAT EDITION” video — and had an idea.
“Hey dad you want to jump off the Benson Tower?” said Adam.
“I said, ‘Not really’ and they explained it to me and I said, ‘Sure, sure I’ll give it a shot,” said Douglas.
So Douglas, who says “I don’t like heights. I don’t like heights, no!”
Will be rappelling off the 25th floor of Benson Tower Friday.
“I think once I get over the edge everything will be OK,” said Douglas.
Douglas and his wife Wendy raised more than $1,000. But Douglas is doing it for Adam.
“I’m always trying to push him to take it a step farther. Overcome his fears, experience everything life has to offer, and not let his disability get in his way,” said Douglas.
“This is a great cause and we’ve never done this before. So I am pretty excited to watch my Dad,” said Adam.
Adam, who loves cop shows, was also eager to participate because Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office and Kenner Police are helping out, giving out helicopter rides and SWAT Training. You can read more about it in the press release below.
WGNO anchor Jacki Jing & meteorologist Jason Disharoon will also be participating!
Click here to make a donation to Special Olympics: http://ow.ly/VfakA
PRESS RELEASE:
On December 4th, we are partnering with the Jefferson Parish Sheriff Office and Kenner Police Department to hold one of our biggest fundraisers called Over the Edge NOLA: S.W.A.T. Edition. Participants who raise a minimum of one thousand dollars through their own personalized fundraising page will get the opportunity to rappel twenty-five stories down New Orleans’ Benson Tower, ride in a helicopter over the Mississippi River, and S.W.A.T. train with Louisiana’s finest at the Jefferson Parish Sheriffs’ Training Facility. There will be plenty of entertainment, including the 610 Stompers, VIPs, food, drinks, music, and fun for the whole family.Who: You, Sheriff Newell Normand, The 610 Stompers, law enforcement officers, over 40+ thrill seekers, and Special Olympics Louisiana athletes.
What: Over the Edge – “The Ultimate S.W.A.T. Experience!”– Rappel down the side of the 25 story Benson Tower and become a J.P.S.O. S.W.A.T. Team member for the day by flying in a helicopter and participating in several S.W.A.T team exercises.
When: Friday, December 4th beginning at 7 a.m. until 3 p.m.
Where: Benson Tower, 1450 Poydras St., New Orleans, LA 70112
Bonus: Performance by the 610 Stompers and appearances by the Saintsations, Sir Saint, & Gumbo. Music, food and drinks will be available all day. Bring your coworkers, friends, and family!
Extra: There are spots available for any members of the media who would like to participate in this exciting event for only $1,000.00.For more information on this event, please contact Casey Minton or log onto www.laso.org.