CAMDEN — By BRADLY GILL
Staff writer
The recent online auction by THE Camden Police Department to help Officer Anthony Grummer with medical expenses raised $4,192, and the money was presented to Grummer in a ceremony Tuesday. However, he had to do a bit of guess-work before the money was handed over.
Camden Police Department employees stood in front of him with 4 numbers and challenged Grummer to guess the amount raised. After a few guesses, he finally nailed the amount and was presented the money by Public Relations Officer Dana Wetherbee.
Mayor Julian Lott was on hand and said, “I am so excited to be here and celebrate Office GrummeR. Of course we’re going to have a wonderful time with him in just a moment, and at his expense. But to see Chief Woody, the visionary, and your team come together and the community at large. The passion that we show in helping each other and particularly our own. I’m so proud of Camden. I don’t think I could be a prouder mayor than I am right now. To see us come together and to do something so positive. I wish you only the best and I pray Godspeed.”
Grummer said, “Thank you everybody that participated. I know a lot of time and effort went in to this. I wouldn’t have ever imagined that it would have been this amount, or turnout. Everyone that donated cakes or put in time. I know everybody had a big part in it. It’s definitely heartwarming and I appreciate it.”
Wetherbee, in a press release stated, “Officer Anthony Grummer started his policing career with Camden police Department. He has moved over to East Camden and has been policing there.
“In October of 2018, Anthony suddenly had to have his gallbladder removed. A few weeks later his appendix ruptured and he had to have it removed, as well. Doctors did a biopsy of the appendix and found a carcinoid tumor, a type of cancer.
“In December of 2018, Anthony had an octreotide scan Rescueback and he currently has a tumor located in his abdomen. When we heard about Officer Grunt’s medical problems we wanted to jump in and help him. CPD raised $828 at our Christmas party by having an auction.”