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Thursday, March 28, 2024

Marion County Fire Rescue lieutenant seriously injured in training accident

A GoFundMe fundraiser is underway for a Marion County Fire Rescue lieutenant who was seriously injured in a training accident earlier this month.

MCFR lieutenant Anthony “Tony” Gillan, a United States Marine, husband, and father, sustained a serious spinal cord injury on Tuesday, November 15 during a training evolution, according to the GoFundMe page. He was trauma alerted to a local trauma center where he underwent immediate surgery.

MCFR lieutenant Anthony “Tony” Gillan seriously injured in training accident
MCFR lieutenant Anthony “Tony” Gillan was seriously injured in a training accident on November 15, 2022 (Photo courtesy of Marion County Fire Rescue)

While the surgery was successful and prevented paralysis, Gillan remains hospitalized and has a long road to recovery. Upon his release from the hospital, he will be required to wear a neck brace 24 hours a day for approximately three to four months, and he will need around-the-clock supervision.

MCFR states that Gillan will need assistance from his wife, Cheryl, as he begins the healing process, and the organization encourages Marion County residents to consider making a donation to the fundraiser.

MCFR lieutenant Anthony “Tony” Gillan and his wife, Cheryl
MCFR lieutenant Anthony “Tony” Gillan and his wife, Cheryl (Photo courtesy of Marion County Fire Rescue)

According to the GoFundMe page, all proceeds will be used to help cover the cost of monthly bills and expenses during Gillan’s healing and recovery.

For more information on the fundraiser, or to make a donation, visit the Anthony and Cheryl Gillan GoFundMe page.