The Lloydminster Fire Department will once again be undertaking a chilly charity event this weekend.
The annual ALS Rooftop Campout will be taking place from Friday to Sunday, on the rooftop of Fire Station No.1, near the downtown core. Members of the fire department will be taking turns in a tent pitched on the roof of the station, in order to raise funds and awareness for research into ALS.
“Having lost a friend and fellow firefighter to ALS in 2013, this cause is particularly near and dear to the hearts of our members,” said Fire Chief Jordan Newton, in a press release issued by the municipal government.
“Each year, the level of local generosity and moral support far surpasses our expectations. This weekend, we encourage all Lloydminster and area residents to stop by Fire Station No. 1 to cheer us on join the fight against ALS.”
During the campout, members of the fire department will also be present at Safeway, Superstore, and Sobey’s to collect donations from the public. Those wishing to help support the campout further are encouraged to stop by the station and meet with the firefighters, and tour the station. Donations will also be accepted at the station.
ALS (Lou Gehrig’s Disease) is a neurodegenerative disease where the nerve cells that control muscles die. ALS is a terminal disease which has no cure, nor an effective treatment. In Canada, approximately 2,500-3,000 people are living with ALS. The lifespan after diagnosis is, on average, two to five years.