Ken Whitley
AML - Memorial Honoree
In 2013, Ken went in for his yearly check-up and routine blood work. Unlike previous years, he was surprised to receive a call referring him to another doctor, and completely shocked to find that it was an oncologist. After a number of blood tests and a bone marrow biopsy, his doctor confirmed that he did in fact have Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML). Although he was 62 at the time, his great health made him the ideal candidate to overcome AML. His optimism was astounding, and he knew he could overcome his diagnoses. He continued to smile and share his love of life with those around him.
After researching all the treatment options, he and his family decided to move forward with an aggressive treatment, and he was admitted to the hospital just two days later. The incredible doctors and staff quickly prepped him for chemotherapy, and he began his journey in April. Luckily he found several matches, had a successful bone marrow transplant in July of 2013 and was in remission! Ken’s passion for life and contagious laugh made it hard to believe he was battling cancer. He had faith, and knew God had a plan for him.
Shortly after his transplant, Ken developed complications with Graft Versus Host Disease (GVHD), and continued fighting battle after battle. The diseases wore him down and he was no longer able to fight it off. Unfortunately, his journey ended on January 31, 2015, almost two years exactly after his diagnosis. He is remembered as an outstanding police officer and teacher, a loving husband and father and great friend to many.