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The Willard community is coming together to show support and raise funds for its longtime police chief, Tom McClain, who needs a life-saving double-lung transplant.
So far, the community has raised more than $19,000 to assist with out-of-pocket expenses.
McClain was diagnosed with pulmonary fibrosis, a serious and progressive lung disease, according to a news release from Help Hope Live.
The news release says the transplant will require at least three months of medical relocation for the procedure and recovery, as well as full-time caregiving and time off from work. The goal for the fundraising effort is $30,000.
Tax-deductible donations can be made through the nonprofit Help Hope Live here.
In addition to online donations, an upcoming talent show fundraiser will be held from 7-9 p.m. Friday, Jan. 23 at the Black Box Theater at Willard Middle School, 205 Miller Road. Admission is $10; buy tickets at the door.
For information about the talent show, call Emily Elliot at 417-849-5058.
Mayor: ‘This is our time to support him’
Troy Smith, mayor of Willard, said the community of Willard has rallied in support of Chief McClain.
“He has dedicated 30 years of his life to serving our community,” Smith told the Daily Citizen. “So this is our time to support him in his time of need. And that is exactly what we intend on doing.”
McClain got his start in law enforcement in Oregon. He relocated to Willard and started out in a patrol position. He began serving as Willard’s chief of police in 1993.
“After 32 years of service, Tom’s impact on the community is immeasurable,” the Help Hope Live release states. “Beyond the badge, he has led camp and character programs that have impacted hundreds of youth lives, run a DARE program to support healthy choices for students, assisted families in need through the annual Shop With a Cop holiday program, and more.”
Chief: ‘I still have goals at the police department’
McClain is a husband, father of two and grandfather of five. He is also a pastor at Rose Hill Baptist Church.
“Initially, I was distraught and in denial about the diagnosis,” McClain said in the release, “but today, I can say I am fully committed to preparing for this transplant. I still have goals at the police department, so I am single-minded about giving my all to this process and getting back to work.”
McClain is expected to join the waiting list for a double-lung transplant as early as January or February 2026.
