Bristol Firefighters Host Boy With Muscular Dystrophy

BRISTOL When city firefighters begin their annual fundraiser for muscular dystrophy research this weekend, they'll have a bit of extra motivation: The thought of 4-year-old Justin Bolduc.

Justin, a Bristol boy who was diagnosed with muscular dystrophy two years ago, visited fire headquarters downtown on Tuesday with his mother, Sheri, and his older brother, Conner.

Justin will be the "goodwill ambassador" for Bristol Firefighters Local 773's campaign for muscular dystrophy research, said Sean Lennon, a firefighter and union president.

"Justin really enjoyed his time at the station and we are looking forward to a long friendship with him," Lennon said.

Bristol firefighters will be on the streets Aug. 16 and 23 with their Fill The Boot fund drive, and Lennon is asking motorists in advance to take a minute to pitch in. Firefighters across the country do similar fundraising work around this time of year, and Lennon noted that Bristol has generated a significant amount for muscular dystrophy in the past.

"Due to the generosity of Bristol residents we hope to continue to be one of the top cities again this year," he said. "I can't thank the residents of Bristol enough."

The International Association of Fire Fighters began raising money for the Muscular Dystrophy Association in 1954, and generated $1 million in 1970. That grew to $10 million in 1995 and $26 million last year, Lennon said. The money is helping fund 60 clinical trials as researchers attempt to find a cure.

In an appeal for help at http://www.gofundme.com two years ago, Sheri Bolduc said her son's condition, Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy, attacks muscles, frequently causes clumsiness and weakness, and may force patients into a wheelchair as it progresses.

"Most patients with Duchenne MD die in their early twenties because of muscle-based breathing and heart problems. There is no cure for DMD," she wrote. "Current treatment is directed toward symptoms, such as assisting with mobility, preventing scoliosis, and providing pulmonary therapy. Justin will need extensive therapy and medical equipment as he continues to grow."

In an update three months ago, she posted "Duchenne isn't easy that is for sure, but we won't give up. Fighting til the end for a normal life."

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Bristol Firefighters Host Boy With Muscular Dystrophy