BROOKHAVEN, Ga. — Officer Joel Coward served this country in the United States Navy, and now he protects the residents of Brookhaven as a member of the police department.
But Coward is facing his hardest task: Cancer.
Earlier this year, the officer noticed that he was unexpectedly losing weight at a rapid pace, as well as a losing his appetite. After seeing a doctor, he received the devastating news – that he was stage 3 stomach cancer.
Doctors said he has a tumor the size of a grapefruit inside, and he is continuing to receive chemotherapy. The treatment has left Coward weak, and he has been placed on disability during his recovery.
“I reached out to my family, and they came over and prayed for me,” Coward said.
That's when Coward said his depression faded and his faith was reinforced.
Channel 2's Wendy Corona learned his department has come together to support him.
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Wednesday, the Brookhaven police foundation and community presented him a check for $23,000.
The gesture left him awestruck.
“It’s just become so humbling to know that complete strangers would reach out to me, would pray for me,” Coward said.
An overnight patrol officer, he's now on light duty at the department. His work and his family fuels him to stay strong. With being a daddy to his 2-year-old son, Jonah, strength and perspective is required, always.
“No matter what daddy is going through, you need to be daddy,” Coward said. “You need to have that energy.”
Coward said he feels like himself right now but urged everyone to be aware of their bodies and get things checked out if things don't seem right
He said his tumor will be history with treatment and the power of prayer.
“I have a long road ahead, but I know now that I have a lot of praying warriors out there,” Coward said.
Coward said he's on a bit of a "time out" right now, and he will be back patrolling the streets just as soon as he can.
Cox Media Group
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