Mantua police Sgt. Robet Layton and Lt. Arthur Hayes dropped off a donation of $500 on Jan. 24 to a member of the Collingswood police force.
The money goes to Sgt. Eric Roseboro – who was diagnosed with both colon and liver cancer at the end of last year – and his family. It was raised as part of the Mantua police No-Shave November campaign last year.
When they heard the news of Roseboro’s illness, according to Police Chief Darren White, Mantua officers decided to help a brother in blue. For the annual No-Shave November, they grew neat and trim beards during the month – without shaving – and paid an entrance fee, proceeds of which benefit men’s health each year.
“We have been participating in this since approximately 2017,” White explained. “There is no specific relationship; we are just trying to help a brother officer in a time of need.”
Township officers used this year’s campaign to raise awareness of cancer and posted news of their donation to Roseboro on Facebook, earning a positive reception from people on the site.
“No-Shave November is a month-long journey during which participants forgo shaving and grooming in order to evoke conversation and raise cancer awareness,” notes the No-Shave November website. “The goal of No-Shave November is to grow awareness by embracing our hair, which many cancer patients lose, and letting it grow wild and free.”
Other area police departments – including the Haddon Township force – joined the campaign to help Roseboro.
“Our officers will have the opportunity to put away their razors and grow facial hair in support of Collingswood police Sgt. Eric Roseboro, who was recently diagnosed with colon cancer,” the Haddon Township department posted on Facebook. To take part in No-Shave November, officers will make a donation that will go directly to help defray his medical costs.
“No-Shave November is not just about growing facial hair,” the post added, “it’s a symbol of unity and support for those battling illnesses. HTPD stands strong in support of Collingswood police Sgt. Roseboro.”
Anyone interested in helping Roseboro and his family can send an email to [email protected] .
“This small donation will hopefully help support Sgt. Roseboro and his family in their fight,” Mantua police posted on Facebook.
