Vince Byrd, former Apopka firefighter needs community help

Vince Byrd graduated from Apopka High School in 1979 and joined the Apopka Fire Department after earning an associate’s degree from Valencia College.

He eventually joined at the Ocoee Fire Department where he has been a lieutenant since 2010.

Despite being in good health he suffered a pancreatic attack earlier this year. Complications lead to emergency surgery. Byrd had to have his gallbladder, spleen and more than two-thirds of his pancreas removed at UF Health Shands Hospital in Gainesville.

He was released from the hospital on August 2nd, but must live close to the facility to be routinely checked on by nurses until he gets clearance from the doctors to go back home.

Insurance covers most of Byrd's medical bills, but not the cost of renting a place in Gainesville while he recovers.

Use this link to read Vince's whole story on The West Orange Times and Observer website.

How To Help Vince Byrd

In an effort to help Jamie and Vince Byrd with the financial expenses of the recovery, Michelle Grogan, a detective for the Ocoee Police Department and family friend, created a Gofundme account in July.

So far, $1,400 has been donated toward the $5,000 goal.

Use this link to help support Vince and Jamie Byrd with their medical expenses at GoFundMe.

Also, A fundraising event will take place from 5-9 p.m., Tuesday, Sept. 6, at Frank's Place, 146 N. Clarke Road, Ocoee.