A story that many in Georgia have likely heard of because of its bizarre nature seems to have come to an end, but perhaps not before an apology is issued.
The story concerns a 30-year-old man, who lives his life as what he calls an “adult baby.” While the man acted out the role of an infant, he was also receiving Social Security disability payments. A United States senator found out about his situation and launched an investigation to determine if he was receiving these payments under false pretenses.
The senator, who originally learned about the man after seeing him featured on a television documentary, had a hard time believing that the man was eligible for the benefits when it appeared he was competent to work. The man showed he had employable skills as he regularly designed and built baby furniture that was large enough to facilitate an adult.
Upon launching the investigation, the senator said that it seemed like the man was taking money he did not need, thus stealing from thousands of people who are turned down for Social Security disability and greatly need it.
The congressman, who is also a physician, even submitted a letter to the Social Security Administration saying that the man seems to be both physically and mentally competent and may improperly be collecting the benefits. Upon the investigation, the man said that he would kill himself if his benefits were taken away.
The investigation ultimately established that the man partakes in the activity simply as a hobby and that he suffers from post-traumatic stress disorder after being abused as a child. The man claims that the stress irritates a heart issue, and he also suffers from back problems.
The man is now demanding an apology from the senator.
Source: The Republic, “‘Adult baby’ cleared in Social Security investigation,” Ryan Sabalow, Oct. 24, 2011.
