After decades of assisting those in need, Chris Bohannon and his family are now the ones reaching out.
The longtime St. Johns County law enforcement officer is facing the fight of his life after being diagnosed with a rare and aggressive cancer — and his family is turning to their local community for some support.
A 17-year police officer who most recently served with the St. Augustine Beach department, the Hastings resident has been diagnosed with synovial sarcoma, a soft tissue cancer that will require months of intensive treatment.
Beginning immediately, Bohannon will undergo rounds of chemotherapy and radiation at a Gainesville hospital, where he is expected to be admitted for a full week every three weeks, according to a GoFundMe campaign.
His wife, Jennifer, and their three children—Liam, 19; Emily, 15; and Katie, 13—are bracing for the grueling emotional and financial ordeal that lies ahead of them.
In addition to medical costs, the family will face mounting expenses for travel, food, and accommodations while Bohannon is hospitalized.
A decorated Army veteran, Bohannon served three years on active duty and another three in the National Guard, including a deployment to Iraq during Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Friends describe him as a devoted father who spends his time maintaining the family’s small homestead and caring for their animals.
Supporters have launched the fundraiser to help ease the family’s burden and are also sharing an Amazon wish list for those who wish to donate supplies directly.
The items — including nausea medication and skin care creams — are directly related to his upcoming treatments.
“Any little bit helps,” a family friend said. “This is a strong, loving family that has always been there for others. Now it’s our turn to be there for them.”
