Statesboro Fire Apparatus Operator (FAO) Calvin Hitchcock and his family could use some community support as he enters a shocking battle with cancer.
In January 2022 Hitchcock went in for a routine annual blood work and no symptoms. The results of the blood work was devastating for the 41 year old Hitchcock and his family. He was diagnosed with two rare forms of cancer, Multiple Myeloma and Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia.
It is unusual for someone so young to have these types of cancer, since they are normally found in people over 60 years of age.
They have a treatment plan in place and are going to fight this cancer very aggressive. He began treatments on June 16 and will be out of work for a minimum of six weeks up to three months depending on his response to the powerful cancer treatments.
Even though this was caught very early, it is already stages II/III.
Fellow Firefighters Raising Funds
SFDFAO Hitchcock joined the Statesboro around four years ago and has made a big impact since joining the department. Family friend Laura Coleman has established #CalvinsCrew a gofundme to help raise funds to cover his expenses. There are many expenses that will not be covered by insurance and potential loss of income if he is out of work for an extended period of time.
"Calvin and his wife, Wendy both have such a giving heart and have made a positive impact on all those around them. They constantly are helping everyone around them and hate to ask anyone for anything but we feel we should allow others to bless them now," said Laura Coleman on the gofundme post.
Laura and other members of SFD are working on a T-Shirt fundraising project as well. Grice Connect will update you when they have these ready to sell.
Calvin Hitchcock began his firefighting career with the Hazlehurst Fire Department and is active with the Georgia Fire Services, Georgia Emergency Management Agency and the SFD Honor Guard. Along with is wife Wendy they have two sons, Collan (15) and Greyson (13).
How you can help
They have set up an account for Calvin Hitchcock at CORE Credit Union, @GeorgiaSafety on Venmo or https://gofund.me/7c9a990e
Please keep this family in your prayers.
One definition of a crew is "a group of people who work closely together". His SFD #CalvinsCrew asks that you join their "crew" and help this wonderful family during this challenging time in their lives.
Story was updated to add Laua Coleman's involvement.
