Officers with the Alliance Police Department are rallying around one of their own after veteran Patrolman Shannon McCalla was diagnosed with leukemia, prompting a community-wide benefit to help cover medical expenses.
McCalla, a 22-year veteran of the department, was recently diagnosed after initially experiencing what colleagues believed were flu-like symptoms.
Patrolman Mike Donley, McCalla’s longtime partner and one of the organizers of the benefit event, said the diagnosis came as a shock.
“We both thought it was the flu,” Donley said. “Then I got a text that he was in the hospital, and everything changed from there.”
McCalla’s condition quickly worsened, and he was transferred to the Cleveland Clinic after doctors discovered critically low platelet levels. It was there that he was diagnosed with leukemia.
The news stunned members of the department, where McCalla has spent more than two decades serving the community. Donley said the two have worked side by side for about 20 years.
“You don’t expect something like that,” he said. “Especially with someone you’ve worked with that long.”
In response, fellow officers organized a benefit event to support McCalla and his family.
The event is scheduled for Saturday, April 18, at Courtney’s Banquet Center, 981 E. State St. in Alliance. Doors open at 4 p.m., with dinner served at 5 p.m. Dinner tickets are $15.
The benefit will include raffles, a 50/50 drawing, a silent auction and door prizes. Organizers say prizes include sports memorabilia, firearms and other high-value items, with a combined value of more than $4,000.
Pre-sale raffle items are available for $10 each and include several firearms and a 75-inch Samsung television, as well as signed helmets from Cleveland Browns defensive end Myles Garrett and Pittsburgh Steelers legend Jack Lambert.
Donley said the effort reflects McCalla’s character and the impact he has had on those around him.
“He’s the kind of guy who would do anything for anyone,” Donley said. “He’s got a big heart.”
Donations can be made through Venmo using the information provided on the event flyer or in person at the Alliance Police Department. Tickets can also be purchased in advance, with stubs held at the door.
Organizers said all proceeds will go toward helping McCalla and his family with medical bills and expenses.
“This is what we do,” Donley said. “We take care of each other.”
