MUSKOKA LAKES –The Muskoka Lakes community pulled together to raise more than $3,500 for the fire chief last weekend.
Firefighters’ boots became heavier throughout the day on Saturday as they stood outside local businesses during a boot drive. The drive was to raise money to help Fire Chief Greg Cameron pay for his first month’s supply of medication following a kidney transplant.
Ric Peca, the firefighter who organized the event, said it went very well, and he’s heard some of the fire stations in Muskoka Lakes who weren’t able to participate on the long weekend will be holding events this weekend.
Seven weeks ago Cameron was called to the hospital to receive a kidney transplant. While he was in the hospital he also had his pancreas removed, and ran into complications with the medication, staying at the hospital for six weeks. Cameron returned home on Tuesday, August 28, to face the reality of paying $12,000 for his first month of medication, which isn’t covered.
Firefighters from Port Carling, Milford Bay, and Foot’s Bay joined forces as the held out their boots and talked to community members. They also had fire trucks on site so children could explore and see what firefighting is all about. Peca said the chief is doing well and has quit smoking since he was in the hospital.
The firefighters are also planning a Halloween dance on October 26 at the Port Carling Community Centre to raise more money for Cameron. Local firefighters will tend the bar at the dance, which will be from 8:30 p.m. until 1 a.m.
There will be prizes for best costume, a silent auction and a raffle.