In December 2024, Deputy Otico received a life-altering diagnosis of Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma. Over the past year, he, alongside his wife and young son, have courageously battled the disease. Throughout treatment, the Otico family has faced each challenge with strength and resolve, determined to remain hopeful while navigating an uncertain and difficult journey.

On August 17th, California Department of Fish and Wildlife Officer Chad Volheim collapsed while responding to what should have been a routine call in Alpine County. Despite experiencing alarming symptoms—numbness, dizziness, chest pain, and a sense of fading consciousness—his episode was initially dismissed as heat stroke. Since that day, Chad’s health has continued to decline. He is now fully bedridden and unable to work, suffering from increasingly debilitating neurological symptoms.

My name is Marcus Mitchell, and my world changed the day I was told I have Stage 4 pancreatic cancer. Nothing can prepare you for a moment like that. The news hit my family and me like a storm we never saw coming. Since then, every day has been a mix of fear, hope, and a determination I never knew I’d need. My greatest worry is my daughter, Imani — her future, her security, and the moments I’m fighting so hard to stay here for.