Cheyenne Cop's Battle to Beat Leukemia

Former police officer and UW Hall of Fame athlete Tom Garrison fights cancer with the support of his partner Lori Millin

Published on Feb. 8, 2026

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Tom Garrison, a former Cheyenne police officer and University of Wyoming Hall of Fame athlete, was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia in 2016. His partner Lori Millin has been by his side throughout his cancer journey, serving as his caregiver and providing emotional support. Despite the challenges of intensive chemotherapy and its debilitating side effects, Garrison's faith, the power of prayer, and the love and laughter of friends and family have helped him overcome the disease and reach remission.

Why it matters

This story highlights the resilience of the human spirit in the face of a devastating illness. It showcases the importance of a strong support system, the healing power of community, and the role that faith and positivity can play in overcoming adversity. The Garrisons' journey also sheds light on the financial and physical toll that cancer treatment can take, and the need for continued research and support for those battling the disease.

The details

In August 2016, Tom Garrison suddenly fell ill while watching TV with his partner Lori Millin. After being rushed to the emergency room, he was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia. Garrison underwent a month of intensive inpatient treatment at the University of Colorado Health Anschutz hospital in Aurora, with Millin by his side. After being released, Garrison continued outpatient treatment, including monthly chemotherapy infusions and a strict regimen of oral medications. The side effects of the treatment were debilitating, but Garrison's determination, along with the support of his loved ones, helped him persevere. In February 2017, Garrison 'rang the bell' at the cancer center, signaling the completion of his intense chemotherapy. However, the battle was not over, as he had to continue maintenance treatment for several more years. In 2023, six years after the initial diagnosis, Garrison reached remission, though he still faces ongoing health challenges from the long-term effects of the chemotherapy.

  • On August 31, 2016, Tom Garrison was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia.
  • In September 2016, Garrison began a month of inpatient treatment at the University of Colorado Health Anschutz hospital in Aurora.
  • On February 4, 2017, Garrison 'rang the bell' at the cancer center, signaling the completion of his intense chemotherapy.
  • In 2023, six years after the initial diagnosis, Garrison reached remission, though he still faces ongoing health challenges.
  • In September 2026, it will be 10 years since Garrison's initial diagnosis, which is considered 'complete recovery' from the disease.

The players

Tom Garrison

A former Cheyenne police officer and University of Wyoming Hall of Fame athlete who was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia in 2016 and has been battling the disease with the support of his partner, Lori Millin.

Lori Millin

Tom Garrison's partner, who has served as his caregiver throughout his cancer journey, providing emotional support and helping with his treatment regimen.

Eric Richey

Tom Garrison's college roommate and a singer-songwriter in Nashville, who flew to Denver to be by Garrison's bedside and provided support through music during his hospital stay.

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What they’re saying

“She's like, 'Tom, you're young, you're strong, so you can beat this. You are a University of Wyoming Hall of Fame athlete. You can cowboy up and kill this cancer. And if you don't, you've got two weeks to live.'”

— Alana Workman, Cancer Center doctor (Cowboy State Daily)

“Tom made a post on Facebook calling me his angel. Oh, I love this man.”

— Lori Millin, Tom Garrison's partner (Cowboy State Daily)

“Dying changes a guy. And just people coming to your bedside and laughing with you, it makes a difference. I don't know if I would have made it, if I didn't have all this. And the power of prayer.”

— Tom Garrison (Cowboy State Daily)

What’s next

In September 2026, it will be 10 years since Tom Garrison's initial leukemia diagnosis, which is considered 'complete recovery' from the disease. The Garrisons will continue to monitor Garrison's health and celebrate his ongoing remission.

The takeaway

This story of Tom Garrison's battle with leukemia and his journey to remission serves as an inspiring example of the power of love, community, and faith in overcoming even the most daunting health challenges. It highlights the importance of a strong support system, the resilience of the human spirit, and the role that positivity and determination can play in the face of adversity.