Clermont County – Danielle Vonder Meulen, a part‑time paramedic with Williamsburg Township Emergency Services and the Stonelick Township Fire Department, received a diagnosis of an aggressive form of blood cancer about two months ago. The news forced her to step back from firefighting duties and focus on an intensive treatment plan.
Symptoms and diagnosis
Persistent headaches prompted Vonder Meulen to seek specialist care last year. After further testing, doctors confirmed the cancer, which has since caused severe fatigue and other daily challenges. “That’s been the hardest lately … all the fatigue and just not feeling like myself,” she said.
Impact on work
Because of her condition, Vonder Meulen had to shift from a combined firefighter‑paramedic role to a paramedic‑only position, citing the need for safety and her own health. “I’ve needed a lot of time off, missed a lot of work, had to change my schedule because I wasn’t able to safely do my role as a firefighter anymore,” she explained.
Colleagues praise her character
Fellow paramedic Joan Foster praised Vonder Meulen’s determination, noting, “Paramedic school is hard enough, but to go through this and finish it, it shows her character. She’s pretty amazing.” The sentiment reflects the deep respect first‑responders have for one of their own.
Faith and community support
When asked how the team copes, Foster said, “When you’re facing something like this, there’s nothing we can do. Just put it in God’s hands…and the doctors.” The community’s response has been swift. The SITREP Foundation, Dead Low Brewing, and Cincinnati Helicopters are co‑hosting a benefit event titled “Brewing Hope for Danielle” on Sunday, Nov. 8, from noon to 4 p.m. at Dead Low Brewing on Kellogg Avenue in Cincinnati.
Vonder Meulen is scheduled to begin chemotherapy in January, followed by a stem‑cell transplant and at least six months of recovery. With medical expenses rising and time away from work adding financial strain, the fundraiser aims to ease the burden for her and her family. “It’s been so nice to see the outpouring of support everyone has for us,” Vonder Meulen said.
Those unable to attend can still contribute through an online donation link provided by the organizers.
Original reporting: WLWT Cincinnati — read the source article.
