All in for 86: Whitney Family Support

To know John and Emily Whitney and their boys—Jake, Sam and Cooper—is to know family, friendship, and community. As you know, this beloved family is just a week into absorbing the impact of John’s brain tumor diagnosis. The outpouring of love and support as they navigate the unimaginable has already been deeply felt. With so many of us wanting to continue to show our support, we have established this GoFundMe. Financial contributions may not change the reality of John’s diagnosis, but they can bring security and stability to the Whitney family as they face the many expenses—both planned and unplanned—on the road ahead.

Captain John Whitney, Badge #86, has served as a firefighter and lead fire investigator for over twenty years. That said, it feels important to note that cancer is the most dangerous threat to firefighter health and safety today (as outlined on the Firefighter Cancer Support Network website). This risk will come as no surprise to John’s colleagues in firefighting and their families. And, while there is no silver lining to a cancer diagnosis, let’s use this as an opportunity to educate and advocate for increased awareness and safety measures that may protect future first responders.

A dear friend of Emily’s shared this quote from The Book of Joy which relates to the extraordinary work of first responders as well as our shared work in supporting this family:

“...taking care of others, helping others, ultimately is the way to discover your own joy and to have a happy life.”

- Dalai Lama

Any donation counts, no matter how small or large. Let’s continue to show the Whitney Family some love and spread some joy!

***Much gratitude to those who may have already donated via the Meal Train site! This GoFundMe serves in tandem with the Meal Train organizing. Thank you!