Chelmsford Pays It Forward For Teacher In Need Of New Van

CHELMSFORD, MA —The pandemic has illustrated just how essential teachers are, and Chelmsford has come together to show support and appreciation for a McCarthy Middle School math teacher, father and grandfather in need.

Tom Gallagher became paralyzed from the waist down after a freak accident back in 2011, and now he is in need of a new handicapped-accessible vehicle since his current one is beyond repair. Friends and family launched a fundraiser and a month and a half later and the community has donated nearly $40,000 to help.

"Although the past nine years have been filled with ups and downs, Tom has never quit and continues to fight, teach and lead," according to the GoFundMe organizer. "Tom’s strength and courage has been nothing short of inspirational."

In 2011, Gallagher came home from his teaching job and reported to his second job which, like many teachers, he took to supplement his income and support his family. While loading his truck for a catering job, he suffered a freak injury that would change his life forever as he lifted a tray of glassware. Within 3 minutes he lost all feeling from his waist down. He was rushed to the hospital where he underwent hours of surgery, but he was paralyzed from the waist down.

Throughout it all, Gallagher has remained unfailingly positive and fought to keep living his life teaching, coaching and being a positive role model while he continues to care for and support his family and to serve as a role model for his students and friends, according to friends.

"Now, it’s our time to follow his lead and come together to help Tom continue to inspire others," reads the GoFundMe. "As you would suspect, Transportation for Tom is vital in his ability to remain independent, work and support his family, keep medical appointments and to maintain his quality of life."

The crowdsourcing goal is to raise $50,000 for a new van for him. Organizers said if they exceed the goal, additional funds raised will be donated to the Travis Roy Foundation.

*GoFundMe is a Patch promotional partner.