April 24, 2001

PRESS RELEASE

To: Newsroom

For Immediate Release

Contact: Brian A. Crawford, Public Information Officer

Phone: 673-6652, cell: 455-2609, page: 675-2137

Fire Departments to Hold Benefit for Stricken Firefighter

Shreveport and Bossier City firefighters are teaming up this weekend up to hold a benefit Rodeo Show for fellow Shreveport firefighter Michael Waits, 29, who was recently diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) - Lou Gehrig’s Disease. The rodeo, whose proceeds will be donated to Michael and wife Cara to help send them on a cruise, will be held on three consecutive days this weekend at the Double R Sports Arena, 3276 Stonewall, in Stonewall. Tickets for each day are $5 and can be purchased at the door. The following are the time lines for the rodeo and respective event schedule:

Friday, April 27 at 7:00 p.m. Standard Rodeo - Bull Riding

Saturday, April 28 at 10:00 a.m. (Firefighter’s Day)

Sunday, April 29 at 1:00 p.m. Standard Rodeo - Bull Riding

Local firefighters have rallied around Michael since learning of his medical condition, with the outpouring of affection having a lot to do with his positive attitude and outlook on life. Earlier this month, Shreveport Fire Chief Kelvin Cochran met with Michael and Cara at their home in Arcadia. "I have never met a young man and a family with more determination and faith to overcome what they perceive as just a minor obstacle in their life" said Cochran. "I went there to encourage and lift Michael up and he ended up lifting me up - he is just an incredible person with great heart," adds Cochran.

The prognosis for ALS is poor, with individuals diagnosed with the disease initially experience speech and motor loss. Within two to five years, most of those stricken are almost totally debilitated. Following a visit to a Houston hospital for special treatment and consultation, Michael recently returned to work under light duty provisions and has been assigned to the fire department’s training academy.

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