BEDFORD (WSLS 10) - It's that time of year for giving. The Bedford Fire Department is asking for your generosity to help one of its own. A 21-year-old volunteer firefighter who's been with the department for three years was recently told by doctors he has cancer. WSLS 10 learned it's a long road ahead to recovery and thousands of dollars in medical bills.
In times of need, it's a brotherhood that grows stronger. This time, it's saving one of their own.
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"Can I send off my stuff and see if I'm a match right now?" said Bedford Fire Fighter Brandon Crouch.
Eager to help, Crouch and the entire crew at the Bedford Fire Department have tested to see if they're a blood match. Just weeks ago, 21-year-old volunteer firefighter Denver Aud was diagnosed with myelodysplastic syndrome -- cancer of the blood.
"I knew something was wrong, but I didn't know it was that drastic," said Aud.
"Just anybody at that young age getting cancer is like...how does this happen?" commented Crouch.
Now, he's been pulled from active duty, on doctor's orders for the sake of his health. Instead of going to fires, he's doing the paper work and managing calls.
"I want to get back here as soon as possible and start running calls again," Aud told us.
But, before he's back in action Aud has a long and pricey road to recovery ahead.
"Well I've spent probably four hours at the doctor's office yesterday and when I was doing the chemo I was probably up there for three hours," said Aud explained. "And, I had to get a platelet transfusion yesterday."
Aud already started chemo and luckily, found a successful blood donor. Now, he's waiting for a bone marrow and stem cell transplant that could run him $1.4 million dollars. And, the list of doctors' appointments goes on.
"Everybody's pulling for him and we want him to get his health and come back," said Crouch. "He's a tremendous asset to the department."
Aud is keeping optimistic. Despite what doctors may believe, he says firefighting is in his blood. He's hoping to get back to work where he can help others in a fiery situation sooner than later.
"I guess if I was in there and I couldn't get out, I would want somebody to come get me too," said Aud.
But, first he needs a little bit of that 'help' returned to him so he can get back in action.
If you would like to help volunteer fire fighter Denver Aud raise funds for medical expenses, visit: https://www.youcaring.com/denver-aud-487333.