BARTOW - (September 2, 2009) – Polk County Fire Rescue is participating in the 44th Annual Jerry Lewis Muscular Distrophy Association Labor Day Telethon, Monday, Sept. 7, 2009. Firefighters are volunteering in the telethon phone banks from 1 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. and presenting a check for approximately $72,000 to the organization for funds raised during the Polk County MDA Fill the Boot campaign back in April.
For more than half a century the International Association of Firefighters (IAFF) members have stood by the MDA, striving to make a difference in the lives of those affected by 43 neuromuscular diseases. The IAFF is the single largest sponsor of the Muscular Dystrophy Association; all across the country firefighters participate in the Fill the Boot drive including the men and women of the Polk County Professional Firefighters.
The money raised in Polk County stays in Polk County to help fund program services including free clinic visits; assistance with the purchase and repairs of wheelchairs, leg braces and communication devices; physical, occupational, and respiratory therapy consultations; support groups and summer camp for children. The money raised also helps fund several ongoing research projects in search of better treatments and cures.
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