Jesse Lindlbauer
2023 Sandra Sagear Wall of Courage Honoree
Organization:
SJ5K
Illustrator:
Ken Can by Ian Flanagan. Illustrated by Jesse Lindlbauer
It is my honor to write this recommendation on behalf of Jesse Lindlbauer in consideration for the Sandra Seagar Wall of Courage. I have known Jesse for twenty years–as a community member and coordinator for the SJ5K, an event named after Jesse and his courage in the face of adversity. This nomination highlights community members who have been touched by his spirit, perseverance and love for others.
In December of 2010, then-Canton sophomore Jesse Lindlbauer (known as Super Jess) suffered a near-fatal brain injury. Despite no previous symptoms, Jesse fought brain trauma, meningitis, and other complications brought on by what was believed to be a mild sinus infection. Jesse spent eleven weeks at C.S. Mott Hospital, surviving two emergency brain surgeries and then began his long road to recovery.
As a result of this emergency, in their darkest hour, local students, teachers, and community stewards rallied together to support the Lindlbauer Family. Utilizing the power of community, the first ever SJ5K was created in May of 2011. After months of planning, the event exceeded all expectations of the founding team, with over 1,800 runners in attendance and enough funds to purchase a handicap accessible van and fund home modifications to support Jesse’s adapted life.
The following year, it was decided that the event in Jesse’s name would continue on to help other Plymouth-Canton families in crisis. Since 2011, the SJ5K has supported over 45 local families facing crisis situations. All proceeds from the event directly support those families with a connection to the Plymouth-Canton community. The event continues to be organized by local high school students and supported by Plymouth-Canton community volunteers and local businesses each year.
This local, student-run charity event supports local families in crisis and has three goals: to provide families with financial
and community support, as well as to develop student leadership. To date, the event dispersed over $1 million and hosted over 240,000 participants for the 5K. Each year (this was the thirteenth annual) is led by a different group of students who have specified areas of leadership for implementation. The SJ5K Club at P-CEP is inspired by students who hear Jesse’s story and are called to action to help others. We have witnessed hundreds of student leaders graduate P-CCS and go to change the world because of their involvement with the SJ5K.
Jesse’s commitment to his community is evident in his continued engagement with the SJ5K. After being the initial honoree, he returns to participate each year in various ways to support subsequent families in crisis. Jesse’s involvement has ranged from designing logos, recruiting business sponsors, participating in the opening ceremony, connecting and mentoring families adjusting to the changes that follow medical trauma, or riding his bike during the run. He is a constant source of encouragement and inspiration to everyone in the community, especially for the student leaders who view him as a local celebrity who has overcome so many obstacles and provides an amazing example of what a community member can be. He also participates in the great cycle challenge every year to raise money to fight childhood cancer. He also reaches out to other people who have had sudden catastrophic physical injuries and offers them advice and support.
While Jesse’s service is impressive, it does not capture who he is. To know Jesse is to understand his character—his steely determination, integrity, humor, commitment to family, and—above all else—his empathetic, giving heart and huge smile. It will be my pleasure to watch this notable Canton graduate grace the names of the Sandra Sagear Wall of Courage with his peers. Please contact me with questions.
Submitted by Beth Savalox, SJ5K Adult Leader
& Becky Kraft, SJ5K Adult Leader