Community Comes Together For Retired Southington Firefighter's Daughter

SOUTHINGTON, CT — A member of the Southington Fire Department community is facing a major family health crisis, with a GoFundMe page set up to help him and his family out.

According to the Southington Fire Department, retired firefighter Eric Chase is "facing an unthinkable family medical diagnosis."

The SFD said his youngest daughter, who recently graduated from high school, is battling stomach cancer "requiring extensive surgery and lengthy, out-of-state hospital stays."

The SFD is asking the community to help via a GoFundMe page set up to help the Chase family.

"Eric has always shown up for us," wrote the SFD. "Now, let's show up for him."

According to the GoFundMe page set up by Southington resident Kawal Hanjan-Fusco on behalf of the family, cancer is something "all too familiar" in the Chase family's medical history.

"However, it has never affected someone so young until now," wrote Hanjan-Fusco.

"Allison Chase, known for her kindness, warmth, and vibrant personality, always greets everyone with a beautiful, infectious smile that brightens any room," wrote Hanjan-Fusco.

"Just after Allison’s high school graduation, she received a diagnosis of stomach cancer."

A major surgery was slated for this month, and the money raised will help the family cope with the financial burdens the illness can bring.

As of late Tuesday morning, $8,990 was raised toward the initial $10,000 goal.

To visit the GoFundMe page set up for the Chase family, click on this link.