Crime & Safety
Firefighters Battle MS Through Golf
An golf tournament organized by Monarch Fire Protection District firefighters to benefit the National Multiple Sclerosis Society is set for July 11 at Landings at Spirit Golf Club in Chesterfield. Register by June 27.
Chris Gelven thinks it may be the best golf tournament in St. Louis County, but maybe that’s because he’s had eight years to perfect the details.
Gelven, a firefighter/paramedic for the Monarch Fire Protection District is the driving force behind the firefighters' annual tournament to benefit the National Multiple Sclerosis Society. The tournament has raised more than $100,000 over the past eight years. This year’s tournament will be July 11 at the in Chesterfield.
“It’s a beautiful course; the entry fee includes lunch, dinner, refreshments and lots of extras. The (St. Louis) Rams cheerleaders will be there, and there’s always something unexpected,” Gelven said.
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Gelven had the idea to hold a benefit for multiple sclerosis (MS) when his wife’s best friend, Tammy Anzueto, was diagnosed with the disease. Anzueto's father was also diagnosed with MS, even though the disease is not hereditary. MS is a chronic disease attacking the myelin sheath, which protects the brain and parts of the central nervous system. Symptoms can be mild to severe, ranging from fatigue and numbness to uncontrollable muscle spasms and breathing difficulties. Treatment can help control, but not cure, the disease.
“Tammy is doing well. She has some weakness, but she’ll be at the tournament, as she is every year,” Gelven said.
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In addition to the golf match, lunch and dinner, the tournament also features a silent auction. The entry fee is $95 or $380 for a four-person team, if submitted before June 27. Gelven advises anyone wanting to participate to sign up sooner rather than later. “The last couple of years, we’ve filled up all our slots and had to turn away some entries,” he said. See the Monarch district’s website for more information.
Firefighters, police and paramedics have a long tradition of community service. “We love helping others and helping with causes,” Gelven said. “The Muscular Dystrophy Association and BackStoppers are two organizations that have the support of firefighters throughout the area. MS is a cause that’s important to us. We like to get involved. That’s what our job is.”