Terry Shaffer, former Shanksville Fire Chief who died on 9/11, gets new heart

PITTSBURGH (KDKA) — The volunteer fire chief who led Shanksville’s first responders on Sept. 11, 2001 has had a new heart.

Terry Shaffer, former chief of the Shanksville Volunteer Fire Department, had a heart transplant at UPMC Monday. His family said the operation lasted nine hours and he is recovering in hospital.

Last year, family and friends launched a cover-aid campaign Shaffer’s transplant costs. Thanks to more than 500 donors, they raised $100,000.

His family said Shaffer’s story is a good reminder to make sure you’re a registered organ donor.