SISTER BAY, Wis. — The Sister Bay and Liberty Grove Fire Department — along with the entire Door County community — is rallying around Fire Chief Chris Hecht after he suffered a brain aneurysm and stroke earlier this year.
Hecht was attending a fire convention in Indiana on April 11 when the medical emergency occurred, leaving him hospitalized and now working through months of recovery to regain his speech, mobility and basic living skills.
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“I’ve known Chris for 12+ years,” benefit organizer Cassidy Beno said. “He suffered a brain aneurysm and a stroke — he’s regaining speech, walking, talking… basic living activities.”
Fellow firefighters say the news came as a shock, describing Hecht as not only a leader but also a mentor and friend to everyone in the department.
“Chris has always been our leader, mentor and friend,” Sister Bay/Liberty Grove Fire Chief Michael Goldstone said. “Replacing him is nearly impossible — so we’re doing everything we can to support him.”
Since April, neighbors, friends and local businesses have stepped up with silent auctions, bracelet sales and fundraisers to help cover medical expenses and home renovations needed to accommodate Hecht’s recovery.
“Everyone has been extremely generous — donating baskets, silent auction items, money, putting up flyers, volunteering. It’s been amazing to see people come together,” Beno said.
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The biggest fundraiser yet will be held Sunday, November 30, at the Sister Bay Bowl from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Admission is $20 for adults 18 and older and includes food, music and silent auctions. All proceeds will go toward Hecht’s medical costs and recovery efforts.
Those who want to help can:
- Donate directly on GoFundMe: Standing Strong for Fire Chief Chris Hecht
- Order fundraiser apparel: Chris Hecht Apparel Fundraiser
- Call benefit organizer Cassidy Beno at (920) 421-1670 for more information or to donate items for the silent auction.
Beno says the community’s support shows just how much Hecht has meant to the area. “If we could all be a little more like Chris Hecht — always thinking about how to help others — we’d be alright.”
