MDA Online Auction Begins August 21

August 19, 2008 – For the first time, MDA supporters have an opportunity to take part in the Jerry Lewis Telethon Online Auction beginning August 21, 2008. The auction features items donated by celebrities, MDA sponsors and others, including items from Harley-Davidson's 105th anniversary celebration. The auction ends September 4.

As the 43rd Annual Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA) Telethon nears, members of the IAFF -- the largest contributor to MDA -- are out conducting fill-the-boot drives and other fundraisers.

“I know IAFF members in the United States and Canada have been working harder than ever this year,” says IAFF General President Harold Schaitberger. “I am looking forward to seeing this year’s totals and hearing about what great things we can do for children diagnosed with Muscular Dystrophy.”

IAFF totals will be announced during the telethon as it airs August 31 and September 1. Last year, the IAFF donated a record-breaking $25.25 million in pledges bringing fire fighter donations to MDA to more than $300 million since 1954.

The MDA Telethon has raised nearly $1.5 billion since its inception in 1966. MDA works to defeat more than 40 neuromuscular diseases through programs of worldwide.