Courage for Kyle, the Epilogue

It is 3:50 in the morning, I can't sleep, so I got some work done.  I decided to check to see if there was any news about Kyle McGetrick, as I do about once a week.  Unfortunately, there was. May 1st, Kyle lost his battle with cancer. The little guy that touched so many hearts in the fire world has left this world and is now free of pain and cancer.


Please say a prayer for his family, friends and community. The Barnegat Fire Department mourns and we all mourn as well.  The pain of losing a child has no words. But I can only imagine that watching helplessly while your baby fights to be brave is so much harder.


Kyle was made an honorary firefighter by his father's department, helping to make a dream come true, that would never have otherwise been achieved.  I collected patches and sent them to NJ for Kyle's collection as did so many other departments in the world.  The fire family responded to his dad's request for a small parade at Christmas time, to help boost his spirits and make Kyle smile, with 100+ rigs.  There have been so many fundraisers in his honor.  Kyle touched so many and brought so much good to the world, just by being Kyle. 


Today one of the most precious gifts in my life left to a place where there are no more doctors, treatments, pain and sorrow.  For today our family let Kyle jump on his own fire truck to heaven.  He taught me as a father the true meaning of love, courage and strength. Kyle fought so hard for the last 7 years with fearless strength and valor that cannot be measured or imagined.  He fought and face the enemy o(f) cancer till the very end.  Rest now forever my son and feel no more pain. Your will to continue the fight and help other kids will go on by those you touched.  I will see you every night in my dreams.  Thank you to everyone through the years who have supported Kyle.  His mission will continue to help other kids of Barnegat.  We love you all.  Kyle will always be my little fireman.

~Gene McGetrick

Peace, love and prayers to the family.  And to the fire family that supported Kyle, you are a true example of why this world of firefighting is so amazing.  Peace to Barnegat FD and the community.


Kyle requested that in lieu of flowers, donations be sent to the Oceans of Love Foundation or to the Barnegat Fire Company.  Any Donations can be sent to Barnegat Fire Company Station 11, PO Box 539, Barnegat, NJ 08005.  They will ensure that Kyle's parents receive all donations for the Oceans of Love Foundation.

RIP Kyle, be proud of how many lives you touched and inspired.

Peace