Karate Chopping for Oprah, Kids

By Jacy Wojcik in News on May 1, 2008 8:10PM

We're always impressed by the lengths people will go to have their voices heard for a good cause, even if we don't always follow their logic. Which is why we love that this man turned to Daniel-san karate chopping to get on Oprah. [Ed note: Try a billboard! It worked for the puppymill people.] Alabama native and karate expert Ron Werstler has spent the past week breaking wood blocks with his hands outside of Harpo Studios in a attempt to get Oprah's attention and assistance in raising awareness for cystic fibrosis. Werstler's son has the fatal disease, which prompted him to go on an 18-month tour of board-breaking to raise money to help families cover the costs of treatment.

Unfortunately, as of yet, Oprah has shown little interest. She does have a lot on her plate after all. Mr. Werstler got kicked off for not having a $100 permit on Tuesday and a ticket reservation called in for him on Wednesday was rejected, as Harpo employees claimed it was not legit.

"I'm just trying to get Oprah Winfrey's attention to help me. I'm tired of breaking boards," said Werstler.

Werstler was also in Chicago as an advocate for Caring Now For Kids with Cystic Fibrosis, a non-profit organization representing kids needing double lung transplants. [S-T, photo via Caring Now's website]