Deputy Chris Emerson, a member of the North Operations Directed Enforcement Team (DET), is dealing with a serious medical issue and AOCDS would like to show him and his family our support.

On February 6th, Deputy Emerson started experiencing an unexplained loss of mobility in both legs. His condition worsened leaving him unable to walk. That same day, he was taken by ambulance to Orange Coast Memorial Medical Center. The next day he was transferred to Hoag Hospital Newport Beach where he underwent emergency back surgery. He is now receiving therapy in the Acute Rehabilitation Unit at Mission Hospital, Mission Viejo. Though Chris has gained movement every day, the triathlete still requires two ankle braces and a walker to get around. He is expected to be in the hospital for about two more weeks and it is unclear how long rehab will take. To make matters worse, his wife Sara just gave birth 4 weeks ago to a son with serious health issues. Baby Wyatt endures weekly check-ups at Children’s Hospital of Orange County (CHOC) and will eventually need heart surgery.

I spoke to Chris and on behalf of the AOCDS membership expressed concern for his condition and provided assistance to his family.

We want to do everything we can to help Chris and his family get through this difficult time while he’s unable to work. AOCDS is accepting donations through the AOCDS Memorial Fund to help support Chris and Sara. All online donations to the fund will be directed to the Emersons until further notice. Donate here.

Checks can also be mailed to the AOCDS Memorial Fund at:
1600 N. Main Street
Santa Ana, CA 92701

Please write “Chris Emerson” in the memo line of your check and address the check to the AOCDS Memorial Fund.

Unless directed otherwise, Chris and Sara will be provided the names of all persons assisting them.

Please keep Chris, Sara and his entire family in your thoughts and prayers right now and hope for a speedy recovery.

Respectfully,

Tom Dominguez