On September 15, 2018, Captain Anthony Whetzel lost his battle with colon cancer. He left behind his wife and two young children. He was 33 years old. Anthony was a 12-year member of the Rockingham County, Virginia Fire Department. He dedicated his life to the fire service, the department he worked for, serving all citizens and his community. Anthony’s legacy continues today through his friend and co-worker Brook Johnson. Brook never wants anyone to forget Anthony.
Brook recalls Anthony as one “that never met a stranger and was a loyal friend to all”. Brook, who is an avid motorcycle rider, organized the Great American Motorcycle Mustache Ride in July. It was a well-attended event where he raised $1000 for the Firefighter Cancer Support Network. Brook and his wife recently rode his motorcycle to the IAFF Fallen Firefighter Memorial in Colorado Springs visiting the site to see Anthony’s name memorialized. Brook has also created a Go Fund Me account where donations are still being received. In total, Brook’s campaign has raised over $2,500 and he is dedicated to continuing his fundraising efforts.
Brook’s dedication for remembering Anthony and raising funds for FCSN comes from how the FCSN assisted his brother in need just weeks after his diagnosis. “FCSN provided support to Anthony in several ways and by setting up a mentorship with other firefighters that had the same diagnosis as Anthony’s”. This meant so much to Brook and Anthony.
Thank you, Brook, for your support of the FCSN and for all you do to keep Anthony’s memory strong! If you would like to donate to Brook’s campaign you can do so here.
https://www.gofundme.com/f/cjq9wh-a-cause-i-care-about-needs-help
