St. George Fire Fighters hit the streets to fill the boot for MDA
Saturday, May 25 members of the St. George Fire Department are taking off their boots and hitting the streets to collect donations for the Muscular Dystrophy Association, an organization that provides health care and support for families, children and adults living with neuromuscular disease. Firefighters will be taking donations for the cause at the intersection of Siegen Lane and North Mall on Saturday, May 25 from 8 a.m. to 12 noon. All proceedsraised during this campaign will go directly toward those affected by neuromuscular disease in the Baton Rouge Community.
The Muscular Dystrophy Association and fire departments across the nation have been working together for over 55 years through various fundraisers to help find a cure. The fundraiser was inspired by a man who sought help through his local fire department after he and his family learned of his son's neuromuscular disease diagnosis. The fire department set up a canister drive to raise money for the family, and ever since, the Fill-the-Boot campaign has excelled in raising money for research and services for muscular dystrophy and other neuromuscular diseases.
The Muscular Dystrophy Association provides services such as flu shots, clinic appointments, wheel chair and equipment repairs, support groups, resources, and week long summer camp sessions for those who suffer or know someone who suffers from muscular dystrophy.
The summer camp sessions are held each summer for children ages 6 to 17 who are affected by muscular dystrophy in the Baton Rouge and surrounding areas. The local summer camp is located in Pollock, Louisiana.
"During their time at Camp Starlite, we help the children focus on their abilities, not their disabilities, and allow them the time to grow in the fellowship of others who are affected by this disease" said MDA Executive Director, Alicia Murphy.
About MDA
MDA is the nonprofit health agency dedicated to curing muscular dystrophy, ALS and related diseases by funding worldwide research. The Association also provides comprehensive health care and support services, advocacy and education.