The FFSF was created in loving memory of FF/EMT Benjamin Matthew Lang, a son, brother, co-worker and friend. As I write this update, I can still hear the sound of his voice, of his laughter. I can still hear “I love you Mom.” In my mind’s eye, I can see his golden curls shimmering in the sunlight as a little boy. I can see him proudly accepting his diploma at his High School Graduation. I can see how handsome he was in his uniform.
My sense of pride has never faded. My love is as intense today as it was on the day of his birth. My son…he was my son.
The days and weeks that followed his death are a blur. Understandably, I was in such shock, my grief so consuming, I cannot tell you who I spoke with, who visited, what was said. To me the simplest tasks for those few weeks were so daunting and draining. But, for the love of my family and friends I could not have made it through. For you see, I could not have stood on my own, not for those few weeks.
The foundation comes from a time in one’s life that another cannot even comprehend unless their own experience sets them on the same path, my path. My loss was the Fallen Firefighter Survivors Foundations beginnings.
I am reluctant to publish this draft as it is so personal. It is important for you to know however, speaking to you as a survivor; I know firsthand the pain and anguish a family goes through following the sudden tragedy of a Line of Duty Death.
The FFSF World’s Largest Poker Run in 2009 and 2010 allowed us to create, organize and establish the fundamentals by which we are presently in operation. The FFSF has now joined in partnership with the Florida State Fire College, we became a recognized resource in the State of Florida by the State Fire Marshal’s Office and the Florida Fire Chiefs Association just to name a few.
When we sent out our first gift, I knew deep in my heart we were making a difference. Through the FFSF we can reach out to others that are in desperate need. What better way to honor Benjamin than to assist the families of those that like him had made the ultimate sacrifice? To give one’s life for the sake of another, this is a testament to the true meaning of hero.
American Firefighters are brave men and women who live and work in every city, in every community of this country. It is our goal, in the wake of tragedy, to become a resource, to extend the hand of friendship. Our purpose is simple; the FFSF will directly assist survivor families by offering funds to pay for unforeseen expenses during the period immediately following a Line of Duty Death.
As we move forward in our mission we can only look to others for support. We will channel that goodwill to offer assistance at a time when it is needed most. We are currently in the planning stages of Florida’s 1st Annual Fire Fest 2011 as well as the next FFSF World’s Largest Poker Run. We are in hopes the citizens our Firefighters bravely serve will join us in supporting our efforts.
Please feel free to browse our website. You may contact us at anytime through our contact page or by email ffsfusa@msn.com.
Please accept our heartfelt gratitude for being a part the Fallen Firefighter Survivors Foundations past, present and future, for keeping dreams alive and for honoring our fallen heroes.
Tags: Fallen Firefighter Survivors Foundation,FFSF 2009 Worlds Largest Poker Run,FFSF 2010 Worlds Largest Poker Run,Florida's 1st Annual Fire Fest 2011,Guinness World Records,Worlds Largest Poker Run
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