Today the Elk’s Lodge is holding a benefit ride for retired firefighter and paramedic Bruce Zamelsky, who was recently diagnosed with Cholangiocarcinoma.

Cholangiocarcinoma is a very rare and aggressive type of cancer that occurs in the slender tubes that carry the digestive fluid bile through the liver. The ride will take place at 11 a.m. at the Elk’s Lodge located at 905 South Davis Road and costs $25 for vehicle registration and one lunch ticket.

Zamelsky is a longtime firefighter who served in many states and cities during his career. He was with the Occupational Safety and Health Administration in New York City for many years, including through Sept. 11, 2001. After 9/11, he returned to Georgia to continue his work as a firefighter.

The LaGrange community is very giving, but this is a special opportunity to thank a real hero — someone that has played a part in saving lives and has been on the front lines when bad things happen to good people.

We don’t know Zamelsky personally, but we know the work firefighters do in this community and others like it around the country. From talking to his friends and family, it’s easy to see that he is a selfless individual that has given so much to so many.

We’re not sure what it’ll take for Zamelsky to recover from his current state, but a small donation could go a long way.

Any donations not used for Zamelsky’s benefit will go toward future research of Cholangiocarcinoma.

Cancer knows no age, race of gender, and it takes many people way too soon each and every day. We urge anyone with the means of doing so to stop by, give a small donation, or even participate in the ride as a way of supporting a local man that would likely do the same if he were on the other side of the table.