A Rockwall gala on Saturday, October 3, will raise money for two Dallas Fire-Rescue veterans battling life-threatening illnesses: Tim Sullivan, who has undergone two heart transplants, and Ted Carpenter, diagnosed with terminal cancer at 46.
The Rockwall Professional Firefighters Charities hosts the annual Firefighters' Ball at the Hilton Dallas/Rockwall Lakefront, 2055 Summer Lee Drive, with all funds going directly to Sullivan, Carpenter, and their families, according to Blue Ribbon News.
Michael Caffey, president of the Rockwall Professional Firefighters Association, told Blue Ribbon News: "Our mission is simple. When one of our own needs help, we answer the call."
Sullivan: Two transplants in a matter of days
Sullivan has served Dallas Fire-Rescue for more than 26 years. In March 2021, he suffered sudden cardiac arrest at home caused by a rare genetic heart condition. His wife, Charmon, a nurse, and first responders acted quickly enough to save his life. Years of hospitalizations followed.
In February 2026, he received his first donor heart, but complications forced emergency treatment. After weeks on ECMO, a machine that takes over heart and lung function, Sullivan underwent a second transplant just days later.
He is still recovering. He and Charmon have four children.
Carpenter: Terminal diagnosis at 46
Carpenter spent more than 23 years at Dallas Fire-Rescue Station 17 before being diagnosed with peritoneal mesothelioma, a rare and aggressive cancer. He is married to Bree, and they have two children, Aubree and Tate. Beyond the firehouse, Carpenter is known for mentoring, church involvement, and sharing his musical talents.
How to attend
The ball begins at 6 p.m. Saturday, October 3. Individual tickets are $150 and include dinner, music, dancing, and casino chips. The evening also features live entertainment, silent and live auctions, and a whiskey and cigar lounge.
Tickets and sponsorship information are available at RockwallFirefighters.org.
