Firefighters and Muscular Dystrophy

Friday evening, Naomi and I were at the 3oth Annual Fire Fighters Charity Banquet and Ball. The Firefighters goal was to raise money for muscular dystrophy. We were there to salute the efforts of Manitoba's Fire Fighters, and to support them in raising money for those with muscular dystrophy. It is not well appreciated that Fire Fighters, because of their exposure to smoke and to various toxins generated in burning buildings, are more susceptible to some forms of cancer. This occupational hazard has now been recognized in Manitoba under the Worker's Compensation Act. When a fire fighter develops one of these particular cancers, it is presumed to have arisen from their occupational exposure, and they are eligible for compensation.

One of my friends, Jim Woodman, was a fire fighter who died of such a cancer. Jim ran as the Liberal candidate in Fort Garry constituency in the 1995 provincial election. I will always remember, that when I became the leader of the Manitoba Liberal Party, Jim supported my efforts and had some very helpful advice. Thank you Jim.