"Fire fighter down!” It’s the radio distress call no one wants to hear.

For 16 years, professional fire fighter Reece Chambers has been risking his life to save others, the past 14 with East Jefferson Fire Rescue, where he is currently a Lieutenant.

Recently Reece received a personal version of “Fire fighter down!” — he needed a heart transplant. Doctors said the non-stop work involved in fighting fires exacerbated previous health issues. The realization that the job he so loves is the cause of this grave condition was difficult to accept.

On Aug. 3, Reece received a new heart and is currently recovering. But the financial cost to his family, even after insurance, is staggering. His wife, Trina, and their four children have been making many trips from their Gig Harbor home to the UW Medical Center’s Cardiac Unit.

The National Police & Fire Foundation has established a secure donation site to help Reece and his family: www.LetsHelpReece.com. Unlike many other similar donation sites, 100 percent of any contributions to this site go directly to Reece’s family through his local union, IAFF Local 2032. This site will also provide updates on Reece’s condition.

This is an opportunity for the IAFF family and the general public to respond to this “Fire fighter down!” call. Reece has been unrelenting in serving the public, responding to house fires, car wrecks, technical rescue calls, water rescues, medical transport support and more at all hours of the day and night. Today he needs our help. Again, 100 percent of all donations made through www.LetsHelpReece.com go to Reece Chambers and his family. Let’s pay it forward! We don’t know who could be next?

The National Police & Fire Foundation was established to support America’s Everyday Heroes in times of need. Within 24 hours of being contacted regarding Reece’s situation, NPFF set up the donation website and stands ready to partner with other police and fire associations that need emergency help. NPFF is a certified federal non-profit organization, so any donations are tax deductible.