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BWG Fire helps Chiari-Warrior celebrate 9th birthday

BWG Fire did a drive-by for a Mason Donkin over the weekend

Chiari-Warrior Mason Donkin celebrated his 9th birthday this past weekend with a special drive-by parade on Saturday while attempting to raise funds and awareness about his rare disease.

The drive-by birthday parade was organized by Mason’s mother, Jennifer Donkin, who surprised him by having the local fire department drive by in one of their massive fire trucks.

Approximately 15 cars attended the parade, including special visits from Mason’s friends and family members he had not seen since the Covid-pandemic began.

The Bradford fire department has been especially supportive over the years, attending many of the Walk-for-Chiari events hosted by the Donkins while supporting Mason’s ongoing fundraisers for Sick Kids Foundation. 

Initially, Mason started an online fundraiser in April with a goal of reaching $50K by the time he reached his 9th birthday.

By April 1, the fundraiser had reached $23,254 and in the final week leading up to Mason’s birthday, the numbers had jumped to $32,189.

“It’s super amazing!” exclaims Jennifer. “He was so excited when I shared with him the final number on Friday.”

Mason told his mother, “I can’t believe that many people donated for me and Sick Kids!”

Although Mason has not reached his final goal of $50K (yet), the Donkins continue to accept online donations as the fundraiser will be ongoing until the target is reached, and Mason’s name will then be engraved on an official plaque displayed at Sick Kids Hospital.

“The support we saw right up until his birthday was truly amazing!” expresses Jennifer. “And donations are still coming in.”

During the drive-by birthday parade, Mason handed out cookies to his friends from local bakery Sweet B’s.

“It just brings him so much happiness,” shares Jennifer. “He was more happy to give the cookies out than to accept the [birthday] cards or banners people brought! He was just so happy to give back.”

Mason had special visits from Jeff Torcato, president of the Volunteer Fire Fighters Association, and retired volunteer firefighter Allan Grant who has also supported Mason’s cause for many years.

The Donkins plan to participate in the “Get Loud” Chiari fundraiser again this year which usually runs in September which is Chiari awareness month.

“We can’t wait for our Walk to be able to happen again – it’s truly a wonderful day for kids to be kids and fundraise towards a great cause! We hope to have that opportunity hopefully next year,” shares Jennifer.

To donate towards the fight against Chiari, visit: here