Our family is reaching out during one of the hardest times we’ve ever faced. My Dad Dennis Hejl, a proud Army Veteran of the 82nd Airborne Division, a 6 year Sergeant of the United States Army Reserve, and a dedicated Retired District Chief Firefighter/EMT for 27 years at East Lake Fire Rescue, has been diagnosed with liver cancer (Hepatocellular Carcinoma).

He has spent his entire life running toward danger to protect others—jumping out of planes for his country, battling fires for his community, and showing up for anyone who needed him. Now, we’re asking for help as he faces a fight he never expected.

Why We’re Asking for Support:

This liver cancer diagnosis has brought sudden and overwhelming medical challenges. Between treatments, specialist visits, bills, transportation, and the care his diagnosis now requires; the financial strain is growing quickly. Our family is doing everything we can, but we can’t do it alone.

Who Dennis Is:

He’s the kind of man who never hesitated to serve his country.

The kind of Firefighter who showed up everyday ready to serve his community.

The kind of Father, Husband, Father-in-law, Brother, Uncle and Friend who would give you the shirt off his back and show up in any way he could for anyone in need.

Even now, he faces this diagnosis with quiet strength and humility.

How Your Help Makes a Difference:

Your support will go directly towards helping Dennis with:

• Non-covered medical treatments and procedures; transportation to these appointments

• Bills

• Any home care and support needs required

• Giving him comfort and peace during this fight

Every donation—no matter the size—helps lighten the load and gives him the chance to focus on what matters most: fighting, healing, and being surrounded by the people who love him.

If you’re unable to donate, sharing this page means more than you know.

Thank you for standing with our family and honoring a man who has spent his life serving others.