Despite the challenges posed by inclement weather last month, Plano Fire-Rescue surpassed its goal by raising $88,000 for the Muscular Dystrophy Association during its weeklong “Fill the Boot” campaign last month.

The fundraising took place May 11-16 and exceeded the department's all-time high of $74,000, which was raised last year from passing motorists.

Firefighters celebrated with a special firetruck washing at Fire Station 5 on Monday, June 8. Plano Mayor Harry LaRosiliere helped with the duties, fulfilling a deal he made, in which he promised to wash the fire trucks if Plano Fire-Rescue raised more than $80,000.

"It was a rewarding experience to be part of the firefighters MDA drive on multiple levels. We created greater awareness for the cause, while raising over $88,000 to support the organization," LaRosiliere said. "Most importantly, we proved when we work as a team and set high expectations we can shatter perceived ceilings. Chandler, the son of one of our very own firefighters who was diagnosed with MDA, was our driving force."

Donations go toward the Muscular Dystrophy Association, a nonprofit organization dedicated to funding worldwide research for muscular diseases. MDA also supports local hospitals and provides summer camps for children living with muscular dystrophy, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and other neuromuscular diseases.

A campaign kickoff event was led by Capt. Scott Mallen, whose 12-year-old son, Chandler, was diagnosed in 2013 with Juvenile Dermatomyositis, or JD. The pediatric disease causes skin rash and muscle inflammation, resulting in weak muscles.

“It’s always a lot of fun getting out and interacting with each other, but it’s more fun having Chandler there. He was all smiles,” Wade said. “We’ve always had a really good relationship between our fire department and the Fire Fighters Association, but that partnership gets even closer when we do things like this together."

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