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Captain Scott Mellon of the Hanford Fire Department joins us to share a remarkable story of service beyond the call of duty. Since 2014, Scott has been running the Fresno Urban Run while wearing complete firefighter turnout gear – helmet, coat, pants, boots and all – navigating stadium stairs, parking garages, and even finishing with an oxygen tank strapped to his back. What began as a personal challenge has transformed into a powerful fundraiser supporting young burn survivors.

The Fresno Urban Run has become synonymous with firefighter participation, attracting over 50 firefighters in full gear last year from departments across the Central Valley. Through friendly competition between fire academies at College of the Sequoias and Fresno City College, they've raised nearly $100,000 since 2019 for the Alisa Ann Ruch Burn Foundation, which supports CHAMP Camp – North America's largest summer camp for burn survivors ages 5-18.

Scott's passion for this cause shines through as he describes how CHAMP Camp creates a transformative space where "their burn injury is the least interesting thing about them." Young survivors who often face ongoing surgeries, social stigma, and physical challenges discover a place where they can participate in everything from horseback riding to swimming, with medical staff always on hand. The $1,200 per-child cost is covered entirely by donations, making this fundraiser crucial to the camp's mission.

After seven years as a camp counselor, Scott has witnessed firsthand how children grow from timid newcomers into confident young adults who refuse to be defined by their injuries. His dedication exemplifies the deep connection between the fire service and the communities they protect – not just in emergencies, but in the healing journey that follows.

Want to support this incredible cause? Donations can be made at givebutter.com/FresnoUrbanRun2025 before the May 4th event. Choose to support either fire academy team, the Hanford Fire Department, or simply contribute to this life-changing program that reminds burn survivors they are so much more than their injuries.

You can find the Hanford Insider at www.hanfordinsider.com and on social media at @hanfordinsider
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