MERRIAM, Kan. — The Merriam Police Department is a small and close-knit group, 32 officers total.
But right now, their brotherhood is down two men because cancer has knocked on their front door.
First for Cpl. Phil Lewis, who was diagnosed with colon cancer.
"Phil is a very, very smart guy. Very dedicated," said Sgt. Chris Brokaw with the Merriam Police Department.
Days later came the news about Maj. Darren McLaughlin, who was recently told he has lymphoma.
"Darren, he's a lot of fun. He's been here going on 30 years now," said Brokaw.
Now, taking on cancer instead of crime.
"It roughly came about two to three weeks ago," said Brokaw.
All hitting this small town department.
"We have roughly 32 officers. So, when you take two officers out of the mix. It's hard," said Brokaw.
McLaughlin's office now sits empty as he is undergoing chemo.
"It's kind of hard to wrap your mind around. It's not easy at all and what's even worse, is watching them and their families go through it," said Brokaw.
Like for the Lewis family.
"In a weeks time, you can go from being completely fine to not. How difficult that is," said Anne Lewis, Phil Lewis' wife.
Lewis has been with the police department for 17 years.
"He is very dedicated to his job and loves what he does. It makes Phil who he is. He's very passionate about it," said Lewis.
The police force has stepped in for both families.
Lewis said her family is eternally grateful for the Merriam officers.
"Just thank you. Thank you for not only for me, but for Phil for the relationships that he has had here and he has loved working here. So, thank you for taking care of us," said Lewis.
Here is how you can help these officers:
Donations are being accepted at any of the local six branches of the Public Safety Credit Union. The department's Facebook page said the accounts were set up by a group called "Answering the Call", under the officers names.
You can also mail in donations to "Answering the Call", at P.O. Box 6763 Lee’s Summit, MO 64064, or dropped off at the Merriam Police Department.
