The IAFF and the Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA) celebrated a remarkable milestone at the 57th Convention in Boston: 70 years of dedicated partnership in the fight against neuromuscular diseases.
“Traditions are at the heart of the fire service, and the IAFF is proud that – for 70 years – ‘Fill the Boot’ campaigns led by IAFF members throughout the United States and Canada have made a difference for people living with neuromuscular diseases,” said IAFF General President Edward Kelly. “As fire fighters, we go where the fight is, and that’s why we are raising awareness and funds to help ensure effective treatments and therapies are found.”
The partnership has garnered more than $700 million through the “Fill the Boot” campaigns, a tradition started in 1954 when Boston, MA Local 718 members first took to the streets with their boots to collect donations for MDA.
As fire fighters, we go where the fight is, and that’s why we are raising awareness and funds to help ensure effective treatments and therapies are found.
General President edward kelly
Today, the IAFF stands as the leading fundraising organization for MDA, demonstrating the giving spirit of fire fighters across the U.S. and Canada.
“Thanks to your tireless support, we are now witnessing the advent of new therapies and FDA-approved drugs that are finally reaching our families,” said Roger Lopez, IAFF-MDA National Coordinator. “These advancements are providing something they have never had before—hope.”
Dr. Donald S. Wood, CEO and President of MDA, praised the IAFF’s dedication and support, saying, “I want you to know how much I appreciate it, MDA appreciates it, and how proud I want you to be of what you have done.”
Thanks to your tireless support, we are now witnessing the advent of new therapies and FDA-approved drugs that are finally reaching our families. These advancements are providing something they have never had before—hope.
Roger Lopez, IAFF-MDA National Coordinator
The anniversary was also marked by a touching video message from Ken Sutcliffe, a retired Dallas, TX Local 58 fire fighter who was recently diagnosed with ALS. Studies show that fire fighters are at a two-fold risk of developing ALS.
“Unfortunately, due to my disease progression, I can’t be there with you,” said Sutcliffe. “I’m hoping that you seeing me and putting a face to ALS will help you understand that not only is cancer an issue with the fire service, but ALS is looming there as well.”
“Now this fight is close to home – affecting our own. It is now more important than ever. So, let’s answer that call and Fill the Boot,” said Kelly.
MDA and the IAFF will kick off more than 420 Fill the Boot events to raise lifesaving funds throughout Labor Day weekend in over 40 states.
For more information on the IAFF-MDA partnership, visit the link here.
