The East Meadow community is rallying behind the family of a former firefighter who died late last year.

The East Meadow Fire Department held a special fundraiser Sunday to help the family of former Captain Mike Smith.

Firefighter Frank Ciaccio says Smith was diagnosed with stage 4 lung cancer in late October, and died just six weeks later in December. He left behind a wife and two daughters.

Members of the fire department held the fundraiser with gift raffles, food, drinks and psychic readings to help Smith's family with expenses after his death.

Smith was a member of the East Meadow Fire Department for 22 years.

"He was a mentor to a lot of young guys, lot of young kids in the company when he was captain. Teaching them the right way, keeping them in line," said Ciaccio.

Ciaccio says Smith's family is overwhelmed by the community's support.