Firefighter with MD shares story

CHESAPEAKE, Va. (WAVY) - A Chesapeake man shared his story about what it's like to live with muscular dystrophy . The Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA) has been raising money for most of the weekend with the Jerry Lewis MDA Telethon.

"When it comes to biking, canoeing, running, playing soccer - I've done it all," said Jeff Kelleher, who now speaks with a computer because of the disease.

Jeff works the computer with his eyes to help him communicate. "I am able to do anything on this computer I could do before, it just takes a little longer," said Kelleher.

Jeff said he prefers to use his own voice, but it's getting more difficult. "The hardest part of the disease for me was losing my voice. I love to talk."

Even with all the challenges he faces, Kelleher has a zest for life. He ignores his muscle twitches, and his only complaint about the feeding tube surgeons just implanted is that it hurts when he laughs. "I appreciate everything a lot more," said Kelleher.

Kelleher said he has no bucket list. He's traveled, has a family and friends he loves, and a strong faith in God. He said of the things he misses most is  "my job, I love my job."

Kelleher was named firefighter of the year in 2009. He said he still gets out as often as he can, but it takes about three hours to get out the door these days.

"I have no regrets," said Kelleher. There's no way to know for sure how much time Kelleher has left, but one thing is certain, he will savor each day.

Kelleher's family encourages others to support the MDA. For information on donating, visit the Muscular Dystrophy Association's website or call 1-800-FIGHT-MD.