The Ventura community is rallying support for recently retired Ventura City Fire Captain John Van Mannekes. Van Mannekes was diagnosed with ALS, more commonly known as Lou Gherig’s disease, in July of 2016. He retired from the Ventura City Fire Department in August due to his illness. After 21 years serving as a Ventura City firefighter, the community is now giving back to him. Members of the community and the Ventura Fire Foundation have already donated thousands of dollars through a crowd funding campaign to help with Van Mannekes' medical expenses.