Police veteran begins rare cancer fight after pleomorphic sarcoma diagnosis

Ferndale Police Department Officer Larrick Winslow is fighting a rare aggressive cancer. A 20‑year veteran with the department, Winslow has been diagnosed with pleomorphic sarcoma, according to a GoFundMe created by family friend Debbie Wharton.

Wharton said his treatment and recovery are expected to take nine to twelve months and “will involve extensive treatment.”

Winslow’s plan includes radiation five days a week for five weeks, followed by a break before surgery. After surgery, he will begin rehabilitation. He will then undergo five chemotherapy sessions, each requiring a week‑long hospital stay at a cancer center in Seattle.

Community Steps In With Support

Supporters have raised more than $22,000 to help Winslow and his wife, Michele:

• manage travel
• lodging and
• daily expenses during treatment

Wharton wrote that the journey will be “incredibly demanding, both physically and emotionally” as they navigate months of care away from home.

“The last thing Michele should have to worry about is how they will afford fuel, accommodations, pet care and other everyday expenses while Larrick is receiving the care he needs,” Wharton wrote.

The fundraiser also describes the emotional strain of the diagnosis.

“We’ve had moments where we’ve been scared, angry, overwhelmed, exhausted, and unsure of what comes next. But then we see another message, another donation, another prayer, another person offering to help, and we are reminded that we aren’t doing this alone.”

Fundraiser Aims to Ease Financial Pressure

Wharton said the goal is to reduce financial stress so Michele can focus on supporting her husband through treatment. She noted that community support will help carry some of the burden as Winslow undergoes radiation, surgery and chemotherapy.

“By coming together as a community, we can help carry some of that financial burden, allowing Larrick and Michele to put their energy where it belongs: on Larrick’s health, healing and recovery.”

The fundraiser is accepting monthly donations.