Fundraiser, 5K planned for longtime Monroe County firefighter battling cancer

Taylor served in public safety for more than 30 years. Donations will help pay for medical care, living expenses and a safer shower.

FORSYTH, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) — An online fundraiser and 5K benefit race are being organized for longtime firefighter Bobby Taylor, who is battling cancer, according to Monroe County Emergency Services.

Taylor served in public safety for more than 30 years with Forest Park and Monroe County. Monroe County Emergency Services said the cancer began in his bladder and later spread to his liver and brain.

The online fundraiser says Taylor continued serving Monroe County as a volunteer firefighter and mentor after retiring, helping younger firefighters and pitching in wherever he was needed.

According to the fundraising page, Taylor has exhausted his state cancer policy and his family has used its financial reserves.

Organizers are seeking $1,200 for supplies to convert the family’s bathtub into a shower because Taylor has become unsteady. Other firefighters plan to complete the work.

Additional donations will help Taylor and his wife, Cindy, pay for groceries, living expenses and medical treatments that insurance does not cover.

Gift cards for Ingles and Walmart can also be dropped off at Monroe County Emergency Services Station 1 at 693 Juliette Road in Forsyth.

Bobby Taylor 5K Charity Race

A 5K benefit race will begin at 7 a.m. Saturday, September 5, at the Culloden Museum, located at 9 College St.

The registration fee is $25, and participants are asked to wear solid purple T-shirts.

Organizers said registration forms and fees can be emailed to campbellmargie@hotmail.com or dropped off with Ms. Davis at the Monroe County Emergency Services office on Juliette Road in Forsyth.

Money raised through the race will help offset Taylor’s medical costs.