Carrying photographs of firefighters who lost their lives on Sept. 11, 2001, over 150 people climbed 22 flights of stairs five times on Sunday at Riverwood 100 Building in Smyrna equaling the 110 flights in the World Trade Center Towers in memory of those lives lost 10 years ago.
The Terry Farrell 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb is a part of the Terry Farrell Firefighters Fund, an organization started in New York by Brian Farrell, Terry’s brother, after the firefighter lost his life in the attacks. Since its founding, the organization has grown into chapters across the country, with Georgia’s starting this past January.
“The fund started as scholarships for the children of the firefighters, but grew so fast that it became a way to provide firefighters and their families financial assistance,” said Mike Korsch, director of the Georgia chapter and former New York Police Department detective who worked on Ground Zero for four days. The funds raised in Georgia benefit and assist local firefighters and their families with educational, medical and equipment needs.
Samantha Taylor, of Alpharetta, ran the climb not only for the spirit of the day, but her connection back to New York City. “I grew up in New Jersey, went to school in New York and today, 10 years later was just a way to remember and honor those while raising money for the firefighters in our community,” she said.
The event raised over $3,000 for The Terry Farrell Fund. Even after the commemorative event, the message of community stays important through this cause. “People can volunteer with [the Georgia] chapter events, fundraisers and even bring their kids to the fire stations” said Sean Gray, who is on the board of directors and firefighter with Cobb County Fire Department- Station 19. “We are always going to be there to help and we want to be a part of the community as much as we want the community to be a part of us.”
For more information on The Terry Farrell Firefighers Fund, visit www.terryfund.org
In Other News: Henry Spiegel Milling, LLP donated $5,000 and had four runners partake in the Kaiser Permanente Corporate Run/Walk held on Sept. 8 at Turner Field. The Kaiser Permanente Corporate Run/Walk promotes health, wellness and fitness among metro Atlanta companies and their employees. A portion of proceeds benefited the Atlanta Braves Foundation and the Atlanta Community Food Bank. The law firm's $5,000 donation will support the SHARE Initiative for injured troops at Shepherd Center.
About the Author
