Edmond Community Rallies Behind Firefighter Battling Cancer

A metro community is rallying behind an Edmond Firefighter who's been battling a deadly form of colon cancer for nearly five years.

After his diagnosis in 2008, doctors gave John Werhun six months to live. But the long-time Edmond Fire Captain defied the odds.

However, last week Werhun turned in his firefighting gear, because he realized the end is near.

Werhun will leave behind his wife and two teenage daughters.

Fellow Firefighter Jarred McAlvain says he's always respect Werhun for the courage and positive attitude he's shown over the years.

"If you didn't know the guy was sick, you would never know it. He was always so upbeat and positive, and the whole time he is dying on the inside," he said.

Fellow firefighters and 911 dispatchers recently began an effort to raise money for the Werhun family. If you would like to donate, a Werhun Family Fund has been established at all Citizens Banks in Edmond and Oklahoma City.

Also, 911 Dispatchers Andrew Martin and Jessica Brown are making a list of people who have pledged services to the Werhun family.

You can reach either of them at Andrew.martin@edmondok.com or Jessica.brown@edmondok.com.