Local Law Enforcement Community Rallies Around Sheriff's Deputy Battling Cancer, Stroke

Penny Crawford faces mounting medical costs as she takes time off work to recover.

Mar. 13, 2026 at 12:24am

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The Sheriff's Foundation in Eddyville, Kentucky has launched a donation drive to help Penny Crawford, the Chief Financial Deputy for the sheriff's office, manage her medical insurance costs as she battles advanced metastatic melanoma brain cancer and recovers from a stroke. Crawford's health insurance is set to expire on May 10, 2026, and without assistance, she faces estimated monthly insurance costs of $1,500 to $2,200.

Why it matters

The local law enforcement community is coming together to support one of their own during a difficult medical crisis. Crawford's situation highlights the financial challenges that can arise for those facing serious illnesses, especially when insurance coverage is limited.

The details

Penny Crawford, who has worked as the Chief Financial Deputy for the Eddyville, Kentucky sheriff's office, was recently diagnosed with advanced metastatic melanoma brain cancer. During her illness, she also suffered a stroke, compounding the medical challenges she and her family are now facing. The Sheriff's Foundation, a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit, has launched a donation drive to help Crawford cover her mounting medical insurance costs while she remains out of work during her recovery.

  • Crawford's health insurance coverage is set to expire on May 10, 2026.

The players

Penny Crawford

The Chief Financial Deputy for the Eddyville, Kentucky sheriff's office who is battling advanced metastatic melanoma brain cancer and recovering from a stroke.

Sheriff Brent White

The sheriff of Eddyville, Kentucky who is spearheading the effort to raise funds for Penny Crawford's medical expenses through the Sheriff's Foundation.

Sheriff's Foundation

A registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that has launched a donation drive to help Penny Crawford manage her medical insurance costs.

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What they’re saying

“Any amount of assistance would be appreciated, but in addition to your pennies, we would cherish your prayers.”

— Sheriff Brent White

What’s next

The Sheriff's Foundation is accepting donations of any size to help Penny Crawford cover her medical insurance costs. Those wishing to support Deputy Crawford can contact the sheriff's office for information on how to donate.

The takeaway

This story highlights the importance of community support and the financial challenges that can arise for those facing serious medical crises, especially when insurance coverage is limited. The local law enforcement community's rallying around Penny Crawford is a testament to the power of coming together to support one of their own in a time of need.