Article via Delaware County Daily Times
While many families celebrate Mother’s Day with brunch or bouquets, one local mother-daughter duo will likely be gearing up to answer emergency calls.
Peggy Grover, 61, and her 20-year-old daughter, Morgan Daly, are both proud firefighters with South Media Fire Company, and their journey to the fire service is as unexpected as it is inspiring.
Grover, a registered nurse working in hospital administration, was drawn into the fire company not through a lifelong dream, but through dinners and game nights, attending as a guest of her daughter. What started as casual visits quickly sparked something more.
“I was inspired by my daughter’s love for the firehouse and the people,” Grover said. “I had no experience in the fire service, but I decided to give it a try and I haven’t looked back since.”
Now a trained firefighter and active volunteer, Grover supports both on the fireground and in administrative roles. She’s also learned a lot about herself in the process.
“I’ve found I’m capable of learning new skills and handling physical challenges I never thought I could. I’ve even gotten better at remaining calm in emergency or unexpected situations– like when my grill caught on fire. I knew exactly what to do,” she said.
Daly, a college student at Anna Maria College, was introduced to South Media Fire Company during her senior year of high school, lured in, ironically, by candy at a career fair.
“I didn’t want a pamphlet about fire safety,” she joked. “But my psychology teacher, who was also the deputy chief, told me to give it a try and come to a training drill. I did, and I had one of the most fun nights ever. I was hooked.”
Now an active firefighter with a focus on fire calls and the physically demanding tasks they entail, Daly says volunteering with her mom has given their relationship a new meaning.
“I knew my mom in her mom mode,” she said. “Now I see her learning, working hard and even taking direction from me sometimes. It’s a different dynamic, but an extremely rewarding one.”
When calls come in at night, they often respond together, sharing rides, splitting tasks and leaning into their unique strengths. Daly handles heavy lifting and hose lines, while Grover’s nursing expertise makes her invaluable on medical calls.
“Watching my daughter work hard and thrive fills my soul,” Grover said. “She’s learning more than firefighting; she’s gaining life skills, confidence and a community.”
As they celebrate Mother’s Day, both women say they’re grateful for the chance to serve together, and they hope their story encourages others to explore volunteering, especially as a family.
“You get to know your family in a new way,” Daly said. “And you get to serve your community at the same time. It’s a win-win.”
South Media Fire Company welcomes new volunteers year-round — no experience required. To learn more or get involved, visit www.SouthMediaFire.com.