Mattie Stepanek Congratulates IAFF-MDA on 50 Years

Dear IAFF Friends,

I want to congratulate the IAFF, and all of you who are part of this wonderful organization, on 50 great years of supporting MDA!

It’s hard for me to imagine what life was like 50 years ago for people with muscular dystrophy. And it’s even harder to imagine where MDA would be today without the incredible support of the IAFF’s fire fighters and paramedics.

When I think of fire fighters, I think of the wonderful men and women who not only do amazing things in their everyday jobs, but who also take their free time to care for and give to others.

I think of the many great fire fighters I’ve met at softball tournaments, at the Jerry Lewis MDA Telethon and at MDA summer camp. I think of Harold Schaitberger and our great friendship. I think of, and continue to pray for, the New York fire fighters who bravely gave their lives on September 11, 2001, and others who have lost their lives in the line of duty.

When I think of fire fighters, I think of people who are generous, unselfish and strong.

I also think of MDA and fire fighters together as a family tree. We, the hundreds of thousands of people with neuromuscular diseases in the United States, are the root of the tree. To continue to grow, we need the fuel and nourishment that comes from people who care about us — like IAFF members.

You’re what keeps us alive and growing. Your devotion has taken MDA from a tiny little bush to a huge tree with many roots and branches that stretch far and continue to grow.

As we celebrate this anniversary, I hope that you’ll remember this: Whether you’re working to Fill-the-Boot for MDA, helping a child have a blast at MDA summer camp, or making your own pledge to MDA, you’re making a huge difference.

You’ve made it possible for MDA to help people like my mom, Jeni, and me to live very full lives and make the most of every day. But most importantly, you give us hope that, someday soon, no child or adult will ever have to struggle with neuromuscular disease.

I’m extremely grateful for the day 50 years ago when MDA and the IAFF joined forces. I’m also very excited about our future because I know that together we will find the cures we need.

From the bottom of my heart, thanks to all the IAFF members for giving so much hope to “Jerry’s Kids.”

Sincerely,

Mattie J.T. Stepanek
2004 National Goodwill Ambassador
Muscular Dystrophy Association

Mattie Stepanek was admitted to the hospital March 7 with complications from his ongoing battle with muscular dystrophy. As of press time, he was still hospitalized in critical condition. Please keep Mattie and his mom, Jeni, in your thoughts and prayers.