Sunday, May 22nd both the Maryland State Firemen’s Association and the Ladies of the Maryland State Firemen’s Association made history by holding the 1st Annual Hope Awareness 5k Walk in support of the Cancer Support Network within both organizations and raised over $10,000.00
The day was rainy and cold but that never dampened the spirits of the walkers and volunteers that braved the elements to walk through the streets of historic Annapolis, Maryland. Maryland Senate President Mike Miller (D-Calvert) came by to congratulate the walkers and Maryland Governor Larry Hogan sent a Governor’s Citation commending the MSFA and LAMSFA on their efforts.
The walk began at the Maryland Fire and Rescue Memorial past the State Capital and Legislative Offices snaked past the U.S. Naval Academy to the scenic docks and back through the downtown shops and historical landmarks. The course ended back at the Memorial under a Maryland flag hoisted by trucks from Prince Frederick and Riviera Beach. The event ended with a light lunch provided by Mission BBQ - Pulled Pork Sliders and house made chips.
The event was supervised by MSFA Cancer Support Chairman Jay Tucker and was Co-Chaired by Marcia Roth LAMSFA Recording Secretary and MSFA Fire Prevention Ambassador Susan Hilton. The small but mighty army of volunteers from that committee, made up from both organizations, made a great team and a fun activity for a great cause.
Monies collected from sponsors, donors, and walkers will go towards the support of both the MSFA and LAMSFA memberships and their families for supplying Cancer Comfort Bags (which are free) filled with items that are useful for patients that go in for treatments. Funds will also be triggered to an aggressive educational campaign for all firefighters and rescuers on the detection and prevention of cancer as well as how caregivers can help their loved ones.
Since this year’s event was a total success, plans are already underway for next year’s 2nd Annual Cancer Support Walk. Hope to see you there.