Jack Gerstmeier has dreamed of being a police officer since his junior year at Brookfield East High School. After graduating from WCTC, he began working as a community service officer in Wauwatosa while waiting to enter the police academy at age 21.

Despite being diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes and celiac disease at just 10 years old, Jack never let those challenges define him. He swam competitively in high school, excelled as a national pistol and rifle shooter, and by 21, he was proudly living his dream—serving his community as a police officer.

But just two years into his career, Jack received a devastating diagnosis. On April 26, 2025, after experiencing sudden vision loss and vomiting during a physical fitness test, doctors discovered a retinal hemorrhage. What was first believed to be related to his diabetes turned out to be something much more serious: acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). He was admitted to St. Luke’s Hospital that same day.

Jack spent four weeks at St. Luke’s beginning aggressive chemotherapy. His fight is far from over—treatment is expected to last 2–3 years, with the first 8 months requiring near-daily visits for chemo, transfusions, and bloodwork. A bone marrow transplant may also be necessary.

At just 23 years old, Jack is now facing the toughest battle of his life. But if you know Jack, you know he’s a fighter. This is just another challenge in a lifetime defined by grit, service, and perseverance—and he will overcome this too.

Unfortunately, the financial burden is heavy. Starting in early August, Jack will no longer be receiving compensation during his treatment. He has exhausted all his sick time and vacation time. The City does not provide short- or long-term disability benefits to its employees. Although Jack contributes to the state pension system, he is not yet vested (a 5-year requirement), so he’s also ineligible for disability coverage through the state. Wauwatosa is one of the few departments in the area without this vital safety net.

To make matters more difficult, recent job changes for Jack’s father have forced the family to meet multiple high out-of-pocket insurance deductibles this year. They are also utilizing critical therapeutic resources not covered by insurance.

Your support—whether through a donation or by simply sharing Jack’s story—will help his family cover medical expenses, Jack’s day-to-day living costs, and ongoing costs associated with his treatment.

This is our opportunity to show Jack and his loved ones the strength, care, and compassion that every first responder family deserves. Thank you for standing with him.