WHEREAS, Muscular dystrophy, which affects more than a million Americans, refers to a group of hereditary muscle-destroying disorders which vary in inheritance pattern, age of onset, initial muscles attacked, and rate of progression; and
WHEREAS, The Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA) is a non-profit health agency dedicated to curing muscular dystrophy, ALS, and other related diseases by funding world-wide research; and
WHEREAS, MDA also provides comprehensive health care and support services by seeking both to provide the power of information to those living with muscle diseases and to increase awareness of these diseases; and
WHEREAS, MDA is committed to making life better for people with muscular dystrophy and related muscle diseases by providing representation in matters of public policy and research advancement, nationally and internationally; and
WHEREAS, Members of the International Association of Firefighters (IAFF) Local 22 bravely serve and protect the public throughout the City of Philadelphia every day; and
WHEREAS, In order to help MDA continue its important efforts, the members of IAFF Local 22 generously and selflessly donate their time and energy to raise money for MDA through their Fill-the-Boot Campaign every year; and
WHEREAS, During the Fill-the-Boot Campaign, IAFF Local 22 members devote many hours asking people to contribute to MDA by donating money in a boot; and
WHEREAS, Last year IAFF Local 22 raised $147,826 for MDA, and they encourage everyone in the City of Philadelphia to help achieve this year's goal of $150,000; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA, That it recognizes May 15, 2015 as Firefighter/ MDA Day to kick off the annual International Association of Firefighters Local 22 Fill-the-Boot Campaign in the City of Philadelphia to raise money for the Muscular Dystrophy Association.
FURTHER RESOLVED, That an Engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to IAFF Local 22, further evidencing the sincere admiration and gratitude of this legislative body.
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