Firefighter Donated Organ To 2-Year-Old Boy

BRIDGEPORT, CT – A Bridgeport firefighter was honored at a recent event for his role in being an organ donor for a two-year-old boy in critical need of a liver transplant. Tim Landock was named Firefighter of the Year at the Annual September 11th Memorial & Awards Ceremony hosted recently at Elks Lodge 36.

"Firefighters are often heralded as brave heroes with dramatic death-defying actions in the heat of the moment," said Fire Chief Richard Thode in a statement. "Firefighter Landock is no exception and has the respect and admiration of his fellow firefighters. This year, Tim stands out, not because of something he did at a fire, but for a life saved in an unusual manner."

Over a year ago, Tim saw a news story about a child who needed a liver transplant and was moved to see if he was a match. As he went through the very lengthy testing process, the child received a transplant from another donor.

However, Tim was still determined to help someone else in need and continued to stay in testing, according to a statement from the city.

In February , Tim matched with a very sick child who needed help. Several weeks later, he met the recipient of his organ: a 2-year-old boy named Dylan, who was now making unbelievable progress.

Dylan's condition continues to improve. He is now a rambunctious young child who keeps his parents on their toes, which is a far cry from the child who was previously unable to get out of bed or lift his own head.

Tim has since become an advocate for living organ transplants and continues to tell his story in the hopes of saving even more patients in the future.

"We truly have the best of the best here in the City of Bridgeport," Mayor Joe Ganim said in a statement. "Our fire department is made up of brave men and women who always go above and beyond - and this such a true example of bravery, and the compassion found among our firefighters. We look forward to sharing more about Tim’s journey and supporting organ donation."