On what should have been the happiest day of their lives, Firefighter Matt Okula experienced the unimaginable. His beloved wife, Hailey, passed away due to complications from childbirth, leaving behind their beautiful newborn son, Crew.

Matt and Hailey’s journey to parenthood was not easy. Matt shared:

Hailey’s strength was unparalleled. Words can’t describe how badly we wanted to be parents. After years of infertility struggles and a long, challenging IVF process, we were overjoyed to be expecting Crew. Hailey faced every hurdle with so much courage and love—even though her body went through so much, she never wavered.” I will never forget the moment I broke down, apologizing for the toll the process would take on her. She held my face, looked into my eyes, and said, “We are a team, and we’ll get through this together.” That was Hailey. A fighter. A teammate. A woman who would do anything for the people she loved.

They faced every challenge together, determined to build the family they had dreamed of for so long. But in an instant, that dream was shattered.

Now, Matt is left to navigate life as a single father while grieving the love of his life. The nursery they built together is no longer a shared refuge but a place of both love and heartache. The late-night feedings, diaper changes, and endless adjustments of new parenthood are his burden alone.

Matt is not one to ask for help—but those who know him, especially his brothers and sisters in the fire service, know the kind of man he is. A man who has dedicated his life to protecting others. Now, it’s our turn to protect him.

How You Can Help

We are asking for support to help Matt focus on what matters most—grieving, healing, and bonding with his son. Your generosity will help cover:

Funeral and memorial expenses for Hailey

Household bills and utilities during this difficult transition

Future baby supplies and childcare for Crew

Time off work so Matt can be present for his newborn son

This isn’t about charity—it’s about duty, about standing by one of our own when he needs us the most. As firefighters, we never leave a brother behind. As a community, we step up when our family is hurting.

Every dollar raised will give Matt the space he needs to begin the long road to healing and ensure that Crew is surrounded by the love and security Hailey dreamed of for him.

If you can’t donate, please consider sharing this campaign so we can reach as many people as possible. Matt and Crew are not alone—we will carry them forward, together.

Thank you for your kindness, generosity, and support.