A massive fund-raiser was held last month for Methuen Fire Lt. James McLaughlin, who is battling a serious illness.

Lawrence native Jim, who is also president of Local 1691, is always there for everyone else – according to family, friends, fellow first responders and community members – no matter what. So when the call went out that “Jimmy Mac” needed help, people near and far jumped in to do whatever they could to support him.

Family and friends Joe Cutrona, Janet St. Louis, Jillian Greenwood and DJ Edna “EJ” Leach, along with many more volunteers, jumped in and planned the huge event.

Over 500 people attended the five-hour fund-raiser at Michael’s Function Hall in Haverhill. More than 100 donated raffles and auction items lined the walls. Live auction items ranged from Celtics tickets and a weekend in Martha’s Vineyard to the once-in-a-lifetime Pizza King package. Pizza King, a Lawrence landmark, closed in 2019 but former owner John Sapienza offered to come out of retirement to whip up those amazing spinach and meat pieces for the lucky winner (if you know, you know).

Jim briefly spoke saying, “I just want to thank everyone. I am so grateful to have all your support.”

City Council Chairman Ron Marsan said, “This is a true testament to Jimmy and everyone is here to support him. This shows how much this community comes together in someone’s time of need.”

It was unconfirmed, as of MethuenLife press time, how much money had been raised.