First responders across Liberty County are coming together to support one of their own.
Sunnie Cole, a volunteer firefighter with West Liberty County Fire and Rescue and an EMT, is fighting colorectal cancer and needs financial support for her treatments.
Colorectal cancer begins in the colon or rectum, parts of the digestive system. It often starts as small growths called polyps, which can turn into cancer over time. Treatments usually include surgery, chemotherapy and radiation. Cole is undergoing a combination of chemotherapy and radiation to try to stop the cancer from spreading.
Cole has been a first responder for nearly 20 years. Originally from Oklahoma, she now calls Liberty County home, where she serves alongside her husband, Kris Cole. He is also a first responder, working as a corrections officer at the Liberty County Jail and as an engine operator with West Liberty County Fire and Rescue, which serves the Colony Ridge and Plum Grove communities.
Cole was diagnosed Dec. 11, 2024, and her battle has been ongoing since.
“I haven’t worked since January and I don’t get short-term or long-term FMLA,” she said.
After 12 rounds of chemotherapy, she now faces six weeks of intensive chemo and radiation.
“Currently it’s growing, so yes and no,” she said of her condition. “It was slowed for a while and now it’s decided to try again. Hence the hardcore chemo radiation schedule.”
To help cover medical expenses, Cole and her family are asking for the community’s support. Donations can be made through Cash App at $SunnieRhea or through Venmo at @sunnierhea. Credit and debit card donations are also accepted through Square.
In addition, Cole is selling items to raise funds for her treatments. T-shirts are $25 in both youth and adult sizes. Koozies are $5 each, decals are $15, and special challenge coins made for her cause are $25.
Cole said her passion has allowed her to spend her life serving others in their moments of need. Now, she and her family are asking the community to stand with them during hers.