Our Mission
Our goal is to help provide life saving medical aid devices for the
terminally ill, elderly, the special needs population, children, and even pets.
These devices will help these people and animals get the help and care
they need and deserve.
The Chief Tedder Rescue Foundation - Advisory Council will also be creating a comprehensive resource guide for families facing the diagnosis of terminal illnesses and cognitive impairments.
Our History
CTRF was founded in early 2025 in memory and honor of
Steve W. Tedder and his father, Ira W. Tedder.
Both Steve and Ira suffered with incurable diseases. Both
journeys were long and hard fought. I told Steve that their
illnesses would not be just another statistic. Both of these
rugged and strong men lived to serve.
I promised Steve their legacies would live on.
The idea of this non-profit came after Steve used medical
devices similar to those listed in our mission statement.
After seeing the positive impact of these devices, we decided to start the Chief Tedder Rescue Foundation.
Steve W. Tedder 10/13/1951 - 2/26/2025
Steve was stricken with a rare neurodegenerative disease called Progressive Supranuclear Palsy (PSP).
When the idea of this nonprofit
was brought up to him, he
immediately loved the idea.
The medical devices he used
made a significant impact on his
life and gave him peace of mind.
In his honor, we hope to provide
the same care to others in need.
Ira W. Tedder
5/12/1925 - 6/23/2000
Ira was a devoted son, brother, husband, and father. He was a Deacon at Quaker Gap Baptist Church in King, NC. He served in the US Navy during WWII. He worked as a local chicken, tobacco, and strawberry farmer, as well as a tobacco grader for the USDA. Ira died after a long battle with what started as prostrate cancer.
Ira was a founding member of the Sauratown Volunteer Fire and Rescue Department where he served as Chief for several years.