Catastrophic Assistance Story
At the Correctional Peace Officers Foundation, our mission—“Taking Care of Our Own”—means standing beside correctional families not just in moments of loss, but throughout the battles that lead up to them.
For Lt. John Scheidt and his family, that journey spanned years.
A Fight Defined by Strength
Kimberly Scheidt was first diagnosed with breast cancer, a battle she faced with remarkable courage and resilience. Through treatment, recovery, and survivorship, she remained a source of strength—not only for her family, but for others walking a similar path.
She believed deeply in lifting others up, often supporting fellow cancer patients and reminding them that they were not alone. Her outlook was simple, yet powerful:
“Sometimes the best medicine is helping others.”
Even while enduring treatment, Kimberly continued to live with purpose, leaning on her faith, her family, and a strong community of support.
Continued Challenges
Years later, the Scheidt family faced another devastating diagnosis, this time, stage 4 colon cancer.
The road ahead was filled with uncertainty. Treatment required extensive chemotherapy, and the financial burden quickly grew as Kimberly was unable to work.
During this time, CPOF stepped in to provide assistance with out-of-pocket medical expenses—easing just a small part of the weight carried by the Scheidt family.
But more importantly, it was a reminder:
They were not alone.
A Loss Felt by Many
On February 26, 2026, Kimberly Scheidt passed away peacefully, surrounded by those who loved her most.
She was 56 years old.
Kimberly will be remembered as a bright light, someone whose kindness, strength, and compassion left a lasting impact on everyone she met. A devoted wife, loving mother, and cherished friend, she built a life centered on caring for others.
Continuing to Stand with Our Own
In the days following her passing, CPOF remained by the Scheidt family’s side, providing bereavement assistance to help ease the burden of funeral expenses.
From the first diagnosis to the final goodbye, the Foundation was there.
Because that is what we do.
A Community of Support
Lt. Scheidt’s fellow correctional professionals, leadership, and extended family rallied around him—demonstrating the powerful bond that exists within this profession.
Support came not just in words, but in presence, compassion, and action.
And through it all, one truth remained clear:
When one of our own is hurting, we all step forward.
Honoring Kimberly’s Legacy
Kimberly Scheidt’s legacy is not defined by her illness—but by her strength, her generosity, and the way she lifted others, even in her hardest moments.
Her story is one of courage.
Of love.
Of unwavering resilience.
And it is a reminder of why the work of CPOF matters every single day.
Taking Care of Our Own—through every battle, every loss, and every step in between.