Community Rallies Round LAPD SWAT Officer Battling Cancer

LOS ANGELES, CA — As a Los Angeles Police Department SWAT officer, John Kent spent decades risking his life to help keep Los Angeles safe, but now he needs help in the fight for his life.

In 2016, Kent retired after 31 years with the department, 26 of those with SWAT. Shortly after, he was diagnosed with a rare form of stage four cancer at City of Hope. According to friends, his body isn't responding well to chemotherapy. Fellow officers have set up a GoFundMe account to support him as he receives treatment.

All proceeds go to the Kent family to assist them with the mounting costs of his medical bills and the family's needs.

"John Kent served the City of Los Angeles for 31 years, 26 of those with Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT). John retired June, 2016 and planned on enjoying along and well deserved retirement," according to his GoFundme page. "Unfortunately, John was diagnosed with cancer just as his retirement was beginning. John is fighting the good fight and would never ask for a helping hand, so we are asking for him."

Click here to donate to the Kent family.

--GoFundMe is a Patch promotional partner; Photo courtesy of GoFundME