Unleashing the power of compassion: community joins the fight to help a local firefighter battling terminal cancer

WEST DUNDEE — In January 2023, Dan Kilian, a captain for the West Dundee Fire Department, received the devastating news that he had colon cancer.

Despite his new health challenges, Kilian continued to show strength and resilience as he underwent rigorous treatments to fight the rapidly spreading cancer.

According to a GoFundMe fundraiser that was organized for Kilian, his decline in health resulted in him being transitioned to an administrative role within the fire department back in October 2023. Regardless of the setbacks, Kilian’s peers stated that he continued to demonstrate unwavering dedication to his duties.

While local communities have rallied around in support of Kilian’s battle, the firefighter encountered yet another obstacle that complicated his treatment regimen and resulted in Kilian having to stop chemotherapy treatments this past January.

Unfortunately, things have only taken a turn for the worse as on March 4, Kilian received the news that his cancer was now in the terminal stage and he only had a short timeline to get his affairs in order.

His fundraiser has now turned from helping Kilian and his family pay for medical bills and other everyday expenses to now trying to alleviate the financial burden on his wife and 7-year-old son after he passes away.

“Any additional funds beyond what is necessary for immediate expenses will be set aside to establish a fund for Dan’s son’s future,” said Michael Spiro, the organizer for Kilian’s GoFundMe.

To date, the fundraiser has raised over $6,000 of its initial $20,000 goal.

Those interested in donating to Kilian’s family can do so by visiting gofund.me/bce5c9be.