Fire truck pull returns to Kingston with goal of topping $35,000 for epilepsy support

Annual fundraiser challenges teams to pull a 37,000-pound fire truck while raising money for local epilepsy programs

Community members and first responders are preparing to test their strength for a good cause as the 13th annual Pull Together for Epilepsy Fire Truck Pull returns to Kingston next month.

The event, organized by Epilepsy South Eastern Ontario, takes place July 19 at Confederation Park from noon to 3 p.m. Teams will compete to pull a 37,000-pound Kingston Fire & Rescue truck 100 feet while raising money to support people living with epilepsy across the region.

Executive Director Brandy Sheahan, explains more.

Last year's event raised more than $35,000, with the Ember Avengers recording the fastest pull time of 21.14 seconds while also leading fundraising with $8,100.

Organizers say every dollar raised stays in the region, helping fund advocacy, education, support programs and services for people with epilepsy and their caregivers.

Epilepsy affects about one in every 100 people worldwide, yet the condition remains widely misunderstood. Epilepsy South Eastern Ontario says many people living with epilepsy face physical, emotional and mental health challenges, along with social isolation.

Sheahan says they've introduced a new way to get involved.

The public is encouraged to attend, cheer on participants and help the fundraiser surpass last year's total. Teams can register, donate or learn more through Epilepsy South Eastern Ontario's website. 

Story by Alyssa Brush