Tom McClain, Willard Chief of Police, has officially been placed on the transplant list following a diagnosis of pulmonary fibrosis in the fall of 2025.
McClain, a pillar in the Willard community, has seen the community rally behind him in this time of need, raising more than $20,000 for his medical expenses. McClain has served Willard for some time, dedicating more than 30 years of his life to law enforcement in the town.
He had noticed some problematic breathing issues in the past four years; he would mention it during regularly scheduled check-ups with no problems found. During the last checkup, however, McClain decided to see a pulmonologist. McClain received the news about his condition on Oct. 15, 2025. It was recommended that he get on the transplant list through Barnes-Jewish Hospital in St. Louis as soon as possible. Upon hearing the news, he was shocked. McClain had taken care of his body his whole life…