By RANDY SEAVER, Editor
Those who know Don Creighton will tell you that he is always the first to step up and help others in their time of need.
Unfortunately, Don is now on the other end of that equation and wondering how he’s going to make it through the next few weeks and months ahead.
Creighton, 57, is a beloved security guard at the McArthur Library. Over the last two years, he has developed quite a fan base and has become a well-known fixture in Biddeford’s downtown area.
Don’s co-workers at the library describe him as a “gentle soul,” and as a “man with a very big heart.”
Whether he is greeting an excited second-grader or a struggling member of Biddeford’s unhoused community, Don treats everyone the same: a big smile, a warm welcome and a commitment to respect.
“Everyone deserves to be treated nicely,” Don explains. “I may be a security guard, but I see my role as being a resource. I’m there to greet people and let them know that this a safe and welcoming place, no matter who they are.”
A few weeks ago, Don had a sudden seizure while working at the library. He was unconscious for several moments and was transported to the hospital.
According to his medical providers, Don had what is known as Non-Epilepsy Seizure (NES). During the seizure and resulting convulsions, Don suffered compression fractures along his spine.
Every day since has been an ongoing battle with pain so intense that Don has a hard moving from room to room in his small apartment on Main Street.
After returning home from the hospital, Don says he avoided eating for several days because “sitting in the bathroom was just too painful.”
Several years ago, Don experienced a similar seizure while working on a lobster boat. “There is no history of epilepsy in my family,” he said, pointing out that he does take medication to prevent seizures.
Don lives alone with his dog, Mya. He describes Mya as his only source of optimism.
He says he misses his co-workers and the people he would see every day at the library.
“I love that job,” he said. “I get to spend a lot of time talking to people, and we also have a great staff – we’re like a big family.”
The isolation, combined with the pain, is taking a toll – physically, financially and spiritually.
Although he has health insurance, he has still racked up roughly $40,000 in co-pays, medicines and day-to-day expenses including rent, utilities and food.
“I live alone, and my family is trying to help me as much as possible,” he said. “I have already drained my savings – and I’m not sure what my next steps will be.”
A community begins to rally
If you visit the library, you will likely notice that Don’s work station has been decorated by colorings and drawings done by some of the library’s youngest patrons.
“Saying that Don is missed at the library is a gross understatement, said Joe Sanderson who is the library’s technical coordinator and sometimes works at the adult reference desk.
“He is a big part of our community,” Sanderson said. “Almost daily, we are asked about how he is doing – people want updates. They want to see him back at the library.”
Sanderson and some of his co-workers have started a GoFundMe campaign to help Don cover some of his most basic expenses.
“It’s the least we can do,” Sanderson explains. “Don is always so willing to help others. Now it’s time for us to help him.”
Sanderson and his co-workers have made flyers and distributed them throughout the downtown area.
“The response from the business community has been great,” he said. “People know Don. They know how important his presence is in our community.”
For his part, Don says he finds it hard to ask for help.
“It’s been very stressful,” he said. “It’s also very scary not knowing if my spine will heal. It’s easy to get stuck in your own mind with a lot of worry.”
Editor’s Note: If you would like to contribute to Don’s GoFundMe page, please click this link: Don Creighton Support Page
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Randy Seaver is the editor and founder of the Biddeford Gazette. He may be reached by email: randy@randyseaver.com
c.) 2026 All Rights Reserved
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