Firefighters brought Ladder Truck 74 out to shine as they collect funds in support of genetic disorders associated to Muscular Dystrophy at one of Gridley busiest intersections. Photo by Seti Long

GRIDLEY, CA (MPG) – Firefighters from local companies livened up street corners along Gridley’s Hwy 99 corridor Dec. 6 as they rallied in support of MDA, or the Muscular Dystrophy Association.

The annual fundraiser is a long-standing tradition of fire departments nationwide and supported by California departments throughout the year.

Firefighters from Gridley and Richvale, supported by other area cadets and hand crews, raise money for Muscular Dystrophy. Photo by Seti Long

“Muscular dystrophies are a group of genetic diseases in which muscles become weak. Over time, muscle weakness decreases mobility, making everyday tasks difficult,” states the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) website. “There are many kinds of muscular dystrophy. Each kind affects specific muscle groups, with signs and symptoms appearing at different ages, and varying in severity. Muscular dystrophies are caused by changes in over 40 genes.”

Gridley’s Station 74 brought Ladder Truck 74 out to help advertise and was joined by Station 71, the CalFire Explorers and a 12-person hand crew as they collected donations.