Help Rhoda Fight Breast Cancer With Love & Light

Hi, my name is EL and I've started this gofundme hoping to raise money for unexpected medical related and living expenses for Rhoda Thomas, who was diagnosed with Stage 3 Triple Negative Breast Cancer in September of 2021. She and her wife Yvonne have spent unexpected trips to the hospital emergency after almost every chemo treatment. Rhoda has developed infections, pneumonia and other illnesses resulting in extended hospital stays. Even with the best of insurance there are still unforeseen expenses that most of us aren't prepared for, resulting in added emotional stress to already gruelingly stressful circumstances.

A Little About Rhoda

Corporal Rhoda Thomas (retired), served the City of Camden as a dedicated law enforcement officer for more than 25-years. After retiring from Camden PD, she continued in public service by joining Mayor Dana Redd’s security detail, and later heading the reentry recidivism program for ex-offenders. Rhoda was educated in the Camden City school system, graduating from Woodrow Wilson High School Class of 1976. Upon graduating from high school, Rhoda chose to further her education by attending Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick campus. She continued to explore additional educational opportunities by attending Antonellies School of Photography. She also enrolled in Camden County College where she earned an associate’s degree in Law Enforcement.

In 1983 Rhoda joined the Camden City Public School system as a substitute teacher where she was a positive and respected presence for the students. She was an effective teacher, and the students loved her, but she wanted to do more for the community that helped shape her life. It was then that she resolved to fulfill her childhood dream of becoming a police officer.

Rhoda entered the Police Academy of the City of Camden, New Jersey, in 1985 and endured the rigorous training by staying focused and maintaining a positive mental attitude. She graduated on April 3, 1986, becoming the first African American female police officer in the City of Camden. The historical significance of Rhoda’s accomplishment did not go unnoticed. Her graduation from the police academy was covered by the Courier Post newspaper, and local news channels 6ABC, NBC3 and CBS10. Corporal Rhoda Thomas played an important part in paving the way for other women who envisioned pursuing a career in law enforcement.

As a community officer, Rhoda realized that the streets of Camden needed an officer that was willing to go beyond the normal realm of duties in the community. She took special interest in eliminating drugs and crime plaguing the city. Corporal Thomas was actively involved on the force and offered her service to many different units, including Vice Squad, bike patrol, and as a regular foot patrol officer. She is recognized as a successful, no nonsense officer who's driven to clean up the streets of Camden. She is truly an activist for community policing and believes that in order to fight crime the residents have to work in conjunction with the police force. She believes strongly in effective leadership and innovation.

Rhoda received the Women of Purpose Award along with numerous commendations from Camden PD in Cell Block Management as well as awards, certifications and other accolades. She’s been prominently featured in several Courier Post newspaper articles and has received notable mentions in books written by former law enforcement partners.

Rhoda has devoted most of her life to Pubic Service, often times behind the scenes, without fanfare or spotlight. It would be fitting if she could receive some of that love and appreciation back from some of the many family, friends and strangers she's helped throughout the years.

We thank you for any generosity that is within your means to give. Peace