SHEPHERDSVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) -- Zoneton Fire Chief Rob Orkies is on a ventilator in the hospital in critical condition, battling COVID-19 and cancer. The Zoneton Fire Department and his family are asking the community for prayers.
According to Zoneton Fire Marshal Kevin Moulton, Orkies was diagnosed with COVID-19 a week into his chemotherapy. The chief has been hospitalized since Nov. 9 after not feeling well and has been on a ventilator since Nov. 19.
In late September, Orkies was diagnosed with a type of skin cancer. According to Moulton, Orkies had his cancer removed in October but had to be rushed to the hospital for blood clots in his lungs, which were removed.
Orkies started cancer radiation and chemotherapy in early November, which was set to last through December. However, after being diagnosed with COVID-19, recovering from the virus is the primary focus. Moulton said Orkies is taking "baby steps" but playing the "waiting game."
On Monday, the chief's fire house hosted a group prayer, which included a chaplain and the chief's family. His fellow firefighters and family also visited him in the hospital, pulling up to his second floor hospital room by firetruck.
Firefighters with the Zoneton Fire Department and family members of Chief Rob Orkies visit Orkies at a hospital with a ladder truck. Battling COVID-19 and cancer, Orkies is on a ventilator in the hospital in critical condition. (Courtesy of the Zoneton Fire Department)
On Thanksgiving, his family, who manages the #8101 Strong Facebook page, asked the community to say a prayer.
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