TULSA - The Tulsa County Sheriff's Department is rallying around a long-time deputy as he fights the battle of his life.
Corporal Dennis Miller has been diagnosed with stage four breast cancer which has spread to his spine and bones, according to a statement from the Tulsa County Sheriff's Department. He will take an extended leave of absence in order to devote his time and energy to treatment, which includes chemotherapy and radiation.
According to the American Cancer Society, 2,600 men will be diagnosed with breast cancer in 2016. Approximately 440 will die. According to the ACS, "Breast cancer is about 100 times less common among men than among women. For men, the lifetime risk of getting breast cancer is about 1 in 1,000."
Miller's mustache started to fall out because of the cancer treatment, according to friend and co-worker Sgt. Mike Moore. As a show of support, deputies who had grown out their mustaches through No-Shave November decided to hold a "Cancer Sucks" fundraising event where they will all, including Miller, shave their facial hair together.
"Just with all the radiation, the chemotherapy and everything, it's just become difficult to keep it," said Moore, "so he's gonna shave his and we're gonna shave ours and we're gonna help him try to get through this you know, together."
Miller was awarded with other deputies in 2012 after he helped to stop a gunman who injured three people when he opened fire at the Tulsa County Courthouse. A statement from the department also said Miller devoted his life to the service of his country in the U.S. Army.
The December 17 "Cancer Sucks" event is scheduled from 6 to 8 p.m. at Tulsa's Jazz Hall of Fame. Tickets are $20 in advance or $25 at the door. The proceeds will help to pay for Miller's medical expenses. You can also help through a crowdfunding account set up for Miller and his family.
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