A Hero’s Journey Through Illness and Community Support
Nancy Baumann has dedicated 25 years of her life to serving the community as a Scranton police officer. However, in November 2024, her world was turned upside down after she received a devastating diagnosis.
“In the moment when they told me, it was unreal,” Baumann recalled, speaking through a mask. “You know, it was like, I thought I was having a nightmare.”
The diagnosis was MDS, a type of blood cancer that has significantly impacted her life. For the past year and a half, she has lived with a severely compromised immune system. Although she is currently in remission, her daily life has changed dramatically.
“I can’t be six feet toward people like, that’s as far as I can get,” Baumann explained. “They can’t hug me. You know, I haven’t had hugs from people in, you know, a year and a half. It’s really hard when you’re used to being around people and interacting and stuff and getting hugs all the time, you know, it’s hard not to do that.”
Despite the challenges, Baumann has not faced her battle alone. The support from her community has been overwhelming, especially from her fellow officers.
A Community United in Support
For the last few weeks, other Scranton cops have been organizing a fundraiser for Baumann. Today, hundreds of people came out to participate in the event, buying pasta dinners and raffle tickets. Every dollar raised went directly to help with her medical bills and expenses as she continues her treatment.
“With everybody that was here today, we, you know, we just didn’t expect this many people to come out and support Nancy, but it’s been tremendous and it really has been overwhelming in such a great way,” said Jill Foley, another Scranton police officer who helped organize the event. “We can’t say thank you enough. It’s been since we started planning this, everybody has been terrific, and it’s just been I don’t even have words. It’s been awesome.”
Throughout the day, Baumann was present at the event, standing behind the bar and greeting those who came to show their support. She offered fist bumps and engaged in conversations with everyone who stopped by.
A Heartwarming Experience
For Baumann, the event was an emotional experience.
“I saw all the baskets and that was overwhelming,” she said. “You know, now I’m seeing people that, I mean some people I don’t even know! It’s amazing. It’s amazing. There’s no words. There’s absolutely no words I mean, I’ve always been there for people and now people are there for me, and I never expected it like this, at all.”
While the event may not cure her illness, it has given her a renewed sense of strength and hope. Knowing that her community stands behind her has made a significant difference in her journey.
A Testament to Solidarity
Baumann’s story is a powerful reminder of the impact that community support can have during difficult times. Her fellow officers and residents of Scranton have shown incredible compassion and generosity, proving that even in the face of adversity, people can come together to make a difference.
As she continues her treatment, Baumann knows she is not alone. The love and support from her community have given her the strength to fight harder than ever before.
