Jeff Rivera always has been a selfless person, his fellow Atlantic City police officers agree.
Now, they are hoping to help him have some more time with his family.
The Atlantic City police sergeant was diagnosed with Stage 4 stomach cancer last year.
Since then, it has metastasized to other areas of his body.
Rivera has gone through every treatment available, but his medical options are limited, according to a GoFundMe set up by city PBA President Jules Schwenger.
He is now fighting as hard as he can.
Rivera is an Atlantic City native who started his work life at Chester's Flowers, where he met his beloved wife, Lisbet.
He became a police officer in 2006.
"Sgt. Jeff Rivera has always exemplified unwavering dedication to our department and the community, embodying the values of of service and courage that run deep in his family," Police Chief James Sarkos said. "We greatly appreciate the outpouring of support from everyone during this time. It truly reflects the spirit of unity that make our community strong."
A fundraiser is also planned for Nov. 7 at the Wonder Bar.
Rivera and his wife have four children: Emily, 24; Erica, 16; Jefferson Jr., 12, and Eric, 9.
On Aug. 31, there was a police convoy that paraded through the Egg Harbor Township neighborhood where the family lives in honor of one of the kid's birthdays.
The couple's youngest is named in honor of Rivera's younger brother, Eric, who had enlisted in the police academy before being deployed for a second tour to Iraq during Operation Iraqi Freedom in 2006.
While his fellow troops were pinned down by enemy fire, Eric Rivera volunteered to help get them out but was killed by an enemy sniper.
"Just like his brother, Jeff has always put the needs, happiness and safety of others before himself," Schwenger said. "Throughout his life, he has demonstrated devotion at every crossroad: devotion to his family, his friends and to the general public.
"This has been a long, arduous road for the Rivera family, and they are in need of our friendship and support now more than ever."
