By FireRescue1 Staff
NEWBERRY, Pa. — Firefighters face a number of challenges when responding to a call, but carry on regardless. For one firefighter with cerebral palsy, persevering is second nature.
Newberry Township volunteer firefighter Cody Zinn, 21, said his cerebral palsy doesn’t affect his attitude.
“I don’t let that pull me down. I’m the same as everyone else,” Zinn told USA Today.
Zinn was surprised this week with a ride in the department’s ladder truck, hoisting him to 67 feet in the truck’s bucket. Although Zinn cannot enter burning buildings or use a hose without assistance during training, he is still an active member of the department.
The two-year member is also known to encourage fellow colleagues during difficult moments.
“He pushes us to limits,” firefighter Brian Johnson said. “When I’m tired, he’s like ‘C’mon, brother. C’mon.’”
Assistant Chief Don Young said Zinn is “there for every training. Every fundraiser. He does whatever he can to help out.”