"The community doesn't hesitate when an opportunity comes up to support officers in law enforcement," says Clinton Township Police Chief Dina Caringi. "No matter who wins, it's the spirit of the day, it's the spirit of the cause," said Chief Caringi. The real goal behind the friendly game was to support Sterling Heights police officer Colton Conley.
Officer Conley joined the force last May, became a dad in August, and three months later was diagnosed with stage 3 testicular cancer. Officer Conley is currently going through chemotherapy and is on short-term disability. That's why every dollar means a lot to him and his family.
"It is such a humbling experience, and it's been amazing, really, we can't thank everybody enough," said Amber Conley, Officer Conley's wife.
"It's really hard to put into words just to see how many people are willing to back you and say he we got you for a minute," Officer Conley said.
"Initially, we were sad and upset, and it's like you ask why me, but ultimately, we think everything happens for a reason," said Officer Conley.
The 28-year-old and his wife Amber never expected the unprecedented support." A few weeks we had $15,000 in cash, this is right before Christmas, just from business owners and local police departments, so we delivered that money to Colton," said Chief Dale Dwojakowski with the Sterling Heights Police Department. Chief Dwojakowski is excited to see this charity game adding more money to the Colton Strong Fund.
To donate to the Colton Strong Fund, head over to: https://www.gofundme.com/f/colton-strong-fundraiser?qid=5053d99a33c88389395819d4daeac723
For the full story from Channel 7, click here.