NORFOLK, Va. — Dozens of Norfolk's firefighters, paramedics, and community members walked 110 flights of stairs to remember the lives lost during 9/11. It is the same height as the Twin Towers, which several first responders walked that fateful day.
Images of the people lost played across the screen at the Norfolk Scope Arena, as participants prepared themselves for the climb.
"I don't even know these people, but some things you don't have to know to care about," said Ashley Galletta, Founder of Norfolk Fire Foundation. "When one person feels it, we all feel it, and they were our brothers and sisters who died that day."
Some participants choose to suit up entirely in their firefighter gear to replicate the trials first responders went through that day. Others walked up and down with American flags tucked into their hair.
All walked for the same purpose.
"It's up and down, and then back again, in a snake formation," said Galletta. "It's hard, but it's worth it."
Proceeds from the event went to the Norfolk Fire Foundation and the National Fallen Firefighter Foundation. Another portion of the proceeds went to Brandon Powell's family, a Norfolk firefighter who died unexpectedly in August.
"He lived to serve his communities, whether it was as a firefighter or as a part of the National Guard," said Galletta. "He was an amazing cook, absolutely hilarious, and a good friend."
For those looking to donate to Brandon Powell's family, we have a link for the family's GoFundMe.