Co-Workers Provide Support For Dispatcher In Need

A Platt County (Ill.) sheriff’s dispatcher received some sad news just four days before Christmas, when she learned that her 11 month-old daughter suffers from a rare form of cancer that affects the brain stem. Staci Chappell is a 7-year veteran of the agency, her husband is a volunteer firefighter, and they also have a two year-old son. In a message to the 911CARES support organization, county 911 director James Cripe says is devastated, but is also determined to beat the cancer. The family has relocated to Memphis after successful surgery to remove their child’s tumor. Insurance is covering their medical expenses, but they are no longer collecting their usual paychecks, and have no way to pay for everyday expenses. Cripe has asked 911CARES to alert dispatchers around the country who want to help the Chappell family. Download (pdf) full details about the family’s plight and how you can help.