Stand with Firefighter Chad Ballard in His Fight Against Colon Cancer

Chad Ballard has dedicated the past seven years to serving others as a firefighter and recently joined the North River Fire District. His career has always been centered on helping those in need, and now he is the one who needs the support of his community.

A few years ago, Chad and his family relocated from Texas to Palmetto, Florida, so their son could receive specialized treatment at All Children's Hospital. Like so many families, they made that move with hope and determination to do what was best for their child.

Recently, Chad sought medical attention for what he believed was a routine hernia. Instead, he received life-changing news: he was diagnosed with colon cancer.

About a month later, Chad underwent surgery to remove the mass, and everyone hoped that would be the beginning of the end of this battle. Unfortunately, pathology results revealed that the cancer had spread to his lymph nodes, making him a Stage III colon cancer patient. His journey is just beginning, and he now faces radiation, chemotherapy, ongoing treatments, recovery, and the physical, emotional, and financial challenges that come with them.

Through it all, Chad's faith has remained unwavering. He is a man of God whose strength, compassion, and positive spirit have touched countless lives. Whether serving his community as a firefighter or encouraging those around him, Chad has always put others first.

The members of the North River Fire District are proud to stand beside him. Our firefighters are covering his shifts so he can focus on his health and recovery without worrying about his responsibilities at work. While we are doing everything we can, there are many expenses that extend beyond what our department can provide.

We are asking our community to rally around Chad and his family during this difficult time. Every donation, no matter the amount, will help ease the financial burden of medical expenses, travel, daily living costs, and the many unexpected challenges that accompany cancer treatment.

If you are unable to donate, we ask that you keep Chad and his family in your prayers and share this fundraiser with others. Your support, encouragement, and generosity will remind Chad that the same compassion he has shown to so many is now being returned to him.

Thank you for standing with Chad and his family as he faces the fight of his life. Together, we can help carry this burden and allow him to focus on what matters most—healing and spending time with his family