My father, John McGovern, was a volunteer fireman for more than 30 years at three different stations in Virginia--Manassas, Vienna, and Bailey's Crossroads.  He risked his life and served the communities he lived as a volunteer, while also working three jobs to make ends meet for our family. 

My dad is now 85 and lost his leg last year due to a severe infection.  He has been diagnosed with Alzheimer's and requires 24/7 care.  He worked hard all his life, lived modestly, and his small pension and social security do not cover his monthly costs. While I moved him to Georgia for more cost-efficient care, his care still costs $1500/month more than he receives in benefits.

My father rescued people from burning buildings, delivered babies, pulled people from car wrecks, and put out numerous fires without ever asking for any compensation for the risks to his own life in doing these things. He loved being a fireman and still proudly wears his Manassas FD shirts and hats nearly every day in his Memory Care residence. 

My dad worked incredibly hard his entire life and has asked for very little for himself. The costs for memory care and 24/7 oversight is high, especially when he needs physical therapy to learn to use his prosthetic leg.  He has literally been making great strides, and for a man who was able to pass the Fire Department physical even in his 60s, this means the world to him. 

Please help my dad to have the dignity and care he needs in his later years through contributing to this fundraiser. All costs will go directly to his care at Vitality Living in Milton, Georgia.