Baton Rouge is where it started and Shaquille O’Neal will always go back to his roots. This city was his launching pad to the NBA. He’s now back to the city and his roots for a cause close to him. This self-proclaimed “Big Kid” gave back to the city in a big way and left a mark like no other. Quite literally in this case. And locals were in awe of his magnanimity larger than his 7’1 stature.
The social media updates from Shaq’s heartwarming visit to Louisiana have surfaced. And it’s the feel-good story we all need right now.
Shaquille O’Neal makes Louisiana happy
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Orlando Magic picked Louisiana State University’s outstanding force on the court, Shaquille O’Neal in 1992. Three decades have passed an Shaq has not forgotten the city that put him in the national spotlight. He’s often returned to Baton Rouge but his recent visit is one for the books.
The outgoing philanthropist spares no expense for children. This time he’s made an astounding $100,000 to the Ochsner Hospital to benefit the pediatric wing. The donation was commemorated with a visit from the big man himself and a luncheon.
Ochsner Health has a special supporter in Shaq. He previously sent a personal message of support to the staff on the frontlines of the pandemic. He’s outdone himself this time.
In 2021, Ochsner Health unveiled the pediatric super-clinic that was previously named The Grove. According to the latest social media updates, it is now The Shaquille O’Neal Pediatric Super-Clinic. His trainer, Roc Shabazz, was among the others present to showcase the renamed wing.
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The hospital hosted Shaq at a luncheon at the Renaissance Hotel on Friday. O’Neal took part in a presentation for the hospital while mingling with many others present. Baton Rouge Mayor-President Sharon Weston Broome expressed her gratitude on behalf of the city as well.
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This smiling giant received the heartwarming support of several people who were present at the event – from the first lady of Baton Rouge to the families benefiting from this wing.
Shaq towers over Baton Rouge fans
LSU, Baton Rouge, and Louisiana will always be special to the Big Aristotle who has ties to other cities too. He’s hoping for his “GOAT” Angel Reese to win his alma mater the NCAA championship again. His presence itself is proving a mood-booster.
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A former college basketball athlete-turned-media professional was ecstatic to witness Shaq’s $100,000 donation to the pediatric clinic. And she was also amused by his towering stature.
He also surprised a family who were there with their child at the clinic. And we know Shaq can’t resist snapping a picture with his tiny fans.
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Just another day of Shaq the do-gooder. His kindness has made several families very happy with his presence alone and sent good vibes on social media through their updates.