Austin Blodgett and his parents Ron and Bridgett posed for this photo in front of the fire truck that took him to school last year. Provided photo
Austin Blodgett, a first grader at Lima Primary school suffers from Alagille Syndrome, a rare liver disease caused by abnormalities in the bile ducts.
In January of 2016, there was a benefit for Austin at the Mendon Country Club sponsored by the Mom’s Club of HF-L. Kristine Brassie, a Mom’s Club member, approached Bill Soehner, a bus driver and firefighter in Honeoye Falls and asked if the fire department would be able to give Austin a ride to school on a fire truck. Austin Blodgett loves fire trucks and Soehner was happy to help. On April 22, 2016, the fire department got out one of their fire trucks and went to pick Austin up at his house. When Soehner and the fire truck pulled up at Austin’s house, family and friends cheered as he boarded it with a grin and a firefighter costume.
“Lisa Moosbrugger made a big contribution, she had every kid at the school waiting outside to greet Austin. It was a neat experience.” Soehner says.
The Honeoye Falls Fire Department has even been involved with Austin more recently as well, on August 14, 2016, the department had their annual Sportsman’s Raffle and they chose Austin as a good cause for their $1,200 donation.
“We can’t begin to express how thankful we are for the Fire Department and all they have done for Austin,” said Austin’s parents Ron and Bridgett in an email response to Soehner.
Soehner says it has been a great experience for Austin Blodgett as well as the Honeoye Falls Fire Department.
Donations to help Austin with his battle with Alagille Syndrome can be made out to Austin Blodgett and sent to 1556 Bragg Street, Lima, New York, 14485 or donate at https://www.youcaring.com/austin-blodgett-501550.
