The International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF) and the Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA) celebrated 70 years of collaboration at the 57th Convention in Boston.
The partnership, which began in 1954, has focused on raising funds and awareness for neuromuscular diseases through the “Fill the Boot” campaigns across the United States and Canada.
As reported by John Drummond, Government Relations Legal Intern, IAFC Government Relations & Policy, IAFF members have raised over $700 million to support MDA’s mission.
IAFF General President Edward Kelly highlighted the significance of this tradition: “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.”
Kelly emphasized the continued commitment of fire fighters to this cause, noting that their efforts aim to ensure that effective treatments and therapies are developed.
The funds raised through the IAFF’s efforts have had a tangible impact on neuromuscular disease research and treatment.
Roger Lopez, IAFF-MDA National Coordinator, expressed gratitude for the tireless work of IAFF members: “Thanks to your tireless support, we are now witnessing the advent of new therapies and FDA-approved drugs that are finally reaching our families.”
Lopez emphasized that these advancements are providing hope to many families affected by these conditions, something that was previously lacking.
Dr. Donald S. Wood, CEO and President of MDA, also praised the IAFF’s dedication, stating: “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.”
The long-standing partnership between IAFF and MDA has been instrumental in advancing research and bringing new treatments to those in need.
The anniversary event also brought attention to the increased risk of ALS among fire fighters.
A video message from Ken Sutcliffe, a retired Dallas fire fighter who was recently diagnosed with ALS, underscored this issue.
Sutcliffe noted: “Unfortunately, due to my disease progression, I can’t be there with you.
“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.”
Studies have shown that fire fighters face a two-fold risk of developing ALS, adding urgency to the need for continued fundraising and research efforts.
IAFF President Kelly echoed this sentiment, stating: “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.”
As part of the ongoing efforts to support MDA, more than 420 Fill the Boot events are scheduled to take place over Labor Day weekend in over 40 states.
These events aim to raise critical funds to support continued research and treatment efforts for neuromuscular diseases.
The tradition of fire fighters collecting donations in their boots, which began in Boston in 1954, remains a powerful symbol of the commitment to helping those affected by these conditions.
IAFF’s role as the leading fundraising organization for MDA demonstrates the strong spirit of giving among fire fighters across the U.S. and Canada.
The partnership continues to make a difference in the lives of those living with neuromuscular diseases, providing hope and advancing the search for effective treatments.
The IAFF and MDA celebrated a 70-year partnership at the 57th Convention in Boston, highlighting their long-standing collaboration through the “Fill the Boot” campaigns.
These campaigns, which began in 1954, have raised over $700 million to support research and treatment for neuromuscular diseases.
The impact of these efforts has been seen in the development of new therapies and FDA-approved drugs, offering hope to affected families.
The event also brought attention to the heightened risk of ALS among fire fighters, further emphasizing the importance of continued fundraising.
Over Labor Day weekend, more than 420 Fill the Boot events will be held in over 40 states to raise additional funds.
