Jeff Thornton is often memorialized for his work as a firefighter and role model, and the Marysville man who died from bone cancer on the fateful September 11, 2001, left a local legacy that continues to grow.

One of the programs he suggested, the Dalmatian Drive, has continued its vital work each year, thanks to Dr. Bob DeFever and his staff at Marysville Chiropractic Clinic. On April 25 the local chiropractor's parking lot was buzzing with volunteers, firefighters and donors who are helping make sure children traumatized by fires and other emergencies have something to hold onto-literally.

"This is the tenth year we've been involved in the Dalmatian Drive," said office manager Becky Hader, "and we're hoping to raise $3,000 to buy 500 stuffed toys."

The Dalmatian Drive purchases the stuffed spotted dogs, usually "beanie baby" styles, for firefighters to carry on their trucks. When children are involved in a fire, car accident or other emergency situation, the little stuffed dogs become a source of comfort. But the fire department has no budget to purchase the pooches, so Marysville Chiropractic organizes the community event each year.

"It's surprising what a big difference the stuffed toys can make," said Hader. "They're just very comforting to a child who's in a stressful situation."

Although the big push for the Dalmatian Drive is over, the office accepts donations at any time throughout the year. Call (360) 659-6241 for details.

blog comments powered by Disqus