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SD Mag & the Temple of Doom

An editor’s journey “Over the Edge” for charity

One of the coolest things about being an editor at San Diego Magazine is that you get asked to do some really fun things. And by fun, I mean once-in-a-lifetime, bucket-list type stuff.

Cut to: Me, clinging to the side of a 357-foot wall with my tiptoes. There were ropes and an unfashionable (albeit necessary) harness involved. And although I was trying my best to channel Harrison Ford, the look is a more Bridget Jones, as opposed to Indiana.

Why am I dangling off the side of 40-story building, you ask?

1) Because I am “fearless.” Seriously. They gave me a T-shirt that says this. So it must be true.
2) I will do just about anything for a good story, and that includes wearing a harness.
3) For charity and the very inspiring Steve Wampler.

August 18 marked the fourth annual Over the Edge event at the Manchester Grand Hyatt. More than 70 participants raised about $70,000 for Kids Included Together, a local nonprofit that fosters the integration of children with disabilities in programs around town.

KIT tapped Coronado resident Steve Wampler as the event’s honorary chair. I am a longtime fan of Wampler, who made national headlines as the first person with cerebral palsy to climb Yosemite’s El Capitan. Plus, he happens to live in my ‘hood.

Over the Edge and KIT go hand-in-hand with Wampler’s message of conquering fear and defying the odds. He’s also a big advocate for children with physical disabilities. And what’s good enough for Steve is good enough for me. He was the first to rappel Saturday morning—wheelchair and all.

Other celeb rappellers included former SD Charger Billy Ray Smith Jr. and 2012 paratriathlete national champion Erica Davis. In addition, more than 50 volunteers donated their time and efforts to make the day a success.

If something like this appeals to your daredevil spirit, start prepping for next year. Participants are required to raise a minimum of $1,000. Or if you’re feeling charitable right now, contact KIT and make a donation to their cause.

As for me? Have harness. Will travel.

What’s the next adventure, San Diego? 

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