Greg Smith, a U.S. Navy veteran and longtime wildland firefighter who previously donated a kidney to save a co-worker, underwent triple bypass surgery Monday and is currently recovering at a Mesa hospital, AZ Family reported.
Doctors discovered a major blockage in Smith’s heart, necessitating the urgent procedure. While the surgery went well, mounting medical bills have added financial pressure to his recovery.
Decades of Service and a Life-Saving Gift
After serving in the United States Navy, Smith spent 35 years as a wildland firefighter, leading hotshot crews throughout Arizona and across the country.
A few years ago, fellow firefighter Bill Kuche needed a kidney. Smith stepped forward immediately, becoming the first person in line to donate one of his kidneys.
To me it means I’ve got a friend, a co-worker, a brother that I’ve worked with for years, and all of a sudden he’s willing to give up an important part of his chemistry — an organ — to keep me alive.
— Bill Kuche
The two firefighters maintained a close bond following the transplant operation.
Fundraiser Helps Family Cover Medical Expenses
When Smith required emergency heart surgery, his children experienced a stark shift in how they viewed their father.
“It was just hard seeing him like — have to get surgery, because I see my dad as a hero, as invincible, like a superhero, so it was hard seeing him vulnerable,” his daughter, Morgan Smith, said.
To assist with the escalating medical expenses, Kuche launched an online fundraiser via GoFundMe. Friends, colleagues, and strangers quickly contributed. A supporter provided an Airbnb in Mesa so Smith's children could stay close to the hospital instead of commuting three hours from Sierra Vista.
“Seeing the GoFundMe go up, like thousands of dollars in a couple minutes, I was like, ‘Oh my gosh, my dad really has people who love and appreciate him,’” Morgan Smith said.
“I’m really glad that he’s helped a lot of people and so many people care about him,” his son, Colton Smith, added.
Smith is anticipated to remain hospitalized through the weekend as he continues his recovery.
