CORDOVA — Firefighters are holding a fundraiser this weekend to help one of their own.
Cordova Fire and Rescue will be selling hot dog plates Saturday as benefit for Harold Dawkins.
Dawkins, a longtime first responder, was recently diagnosed with Guillain-Barre syndrome and has been hospitalized more than a month.
According to the Mayo Clinic, Guillain-Barre syndrome is a rare disorder in which the body’s immune system attacks the nerves.
The exact cause of the disorder is still unknown and there is no cure.
However, there are treatments that can ease the symptoms, which include: prickling, pins and needles sensations in the fingers, toes, ankles or wrists; weakness in the legs that spreads to the upper body; unsteady walking or inability to walk or climb stairs; difficulty with eye or facial movements, including speaking, chewing or swallowing; severe pain that may feel achy or cramplike and may worsen at night; a rapid heart rate; and difficulty breathing.
Dawkins was a firefighter for more than 40 years and began his career with the East Rockingham Fire Department, serving as chief from 1983-1986, according to a GoFundMe page set up to help cover expenses.
He retired in 2005 and became a photographer for Cordova Fire and Rescue and later a contributor to Firenews.net and the Richmond Observer.
The GoFundMe page, started on Oct. 26, has only raised $70 of the $25,000 goal.
The fire department announced Friday that barbecue has been added to the menu for Saturday’s fundraiser. Plates include chips and a drink for $5. The sale begins at 11 a.m.
