After 6 years of fundraising for ALS with the rooftop campout, Fire Chief Jordan Newton says awareness has gradually grown in Lloydminster. This year members of the Fire Department raised close to $25,000.
ALS is known as Lou Gehrig’s disease. It is a neurological disease that affects the muscles in the human body, which can result in difficulty performing basic daily functions.
This past weekend, the community showed their support as firefighters braved the cold at Fire Hall 1. Members took donations at the station as well as local businesses and grocery stores. Chief Newton says the cause is approached with a “dual-sided sword” raising funds for a terrible illness while collecting funds.
“We had a member diagnosed with ALS in 2013 and ultimately passed away in 2013 from the terrible disease and that’s where it touches our hearts and that’s why we raise funds.”
The Fire Department’s story is an example of the disease affecting not only the person with the disease but the people around them. Lloydminster’s this weekend will possibly improve someone’s quality of life.
“I can’t state how thankful I am for the community. Our community has been wonderful in supporting the fire department raise funds and awareness for ALS,” Newton says part of the proceeds will go towards ALS research but the brunt of the cash will go towards home equipment for people battling the disease.“Some people don’t know about ALS, but a lot of people are looking to learn why the fire department does it, so it’s been excellent.”