Vigilant Hose Company has a long history of supporting the Emmitsburg community and those who call it home. With the merger two years ago between VHC and the Emmitsburg Volunteer Ambulance Company our resources and abilities to support our community grew greatly.

This past July VHC held a benefit BINGO to support one of our community members and friends of the fire company Lydia Kelly. Lydia was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer and while fighting the disease she needed some support to help her fight continue.

VHC BINGO Chairperson Mary Lou Little received a letter from Lydia this fall, and Lydia wanted us to share her words.

"As I write this letter, I am overcome with emotions. I have gone from tears and depression after hearing the diagnosis of Pancreatic Cancer, the endless chemo and feeling so sick, and the horror of losing my hair. Then comes the anger of having to endure yet another hardship, that is totally out of my control.

However, when I walked into the benefit on July 27th, the sight of so many of my family & friends brought an emotion of gratitude and a feeling that I was truly blessed to have such a wonderful support system. It was hard to hold back the tears. Thank You to all that worked so hard to pull this off, those that attended an those that couldn't but helped in other ways. With sincere appreciation, Lydia."

The fire department is always the heartbeat of any small town. The support of the community allows us to give back whenever we can, however we can. We were very happy to participate in this cause.