Okanagan firefighters on the move for MS

By Staff Writer - Vernon Morning Star Published: September 21, 2012 1:00 AM
Join Vernon, Kelowna, Penticton and West Kelowna firefighters Saturday as they hold out their boots across the valley in support of Muscular Dystrophy Canada.  To show their support for people with neuromuscular disorders, Okanagan firefighters are organizing their third annual community boot drive to raise awareness and funds to help “make muscles move.” Vernon firefighters will be at the Village Green Centre, Superstore, Wal-Mart and Starbucks in the Fruit Union Plaza from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday. “It takes a firefighter 56 muscles to put on a boot; it takes you to help fill it,” said Chris Kulak, Vernon Fire Rescue training officer. “By dropping your extra change into the boot, you are making muscles move in your community. So come out to support your local firefighters in the battle against muscular dystrophy.” Since 1954, Canadian Firefighters have been helping Muscular Dystrophy Canada fight the battle against muscular dystrophy – a group of over 150 types of neuromuscular disorders characterized by the wasting and progressive weakness of muscles. Over time, many people with neuromuscular disorders are unable to walk, speak, or ultimately breathe. Some diseases are life-threatening and presently, there is no cure. The money raised by Okanagan firefighters will be donated to improve the quality of life for people living with neuromuscular disorders by purchasing mobility equipment, providing support services, and funding research, which will one day lead to a cure.