Mark Belisle Family Fund

It’s always hard to ask for help and it’s even more difficult when you are typically the one who has made it a life’s mission to be the helper.

Mark Belisle answered the call to become a law enforcement officer in 1986, in Spring Valley, Texas. He later moved to Minnesota and served at the Hastings Police Department until 1999 and eventually joined the ranks at the Rochester Police Department where I had the pleasure of meeting him.

Mark has been in Patrol while in Rochester but took on many other commitments in addition to his patrol duties. He was active in the Police Explorers Program, Shop With a Cop, Coptalk Live and the Fallen Officer’s Memorial.  He attended many funerals of officers who gave the ultimate sacrifice.

Mark remembers every license plate, vehicle description and name on the street. He takes his charge seriously and cares about the safety of the people and communities he has sworn to protect. Even those communities beyond his home area have been the recipients of Mark’s caring and consideration. When Ferguson, Missouri was in the throes of unrest and uncertainty, Mark did not stand by and simply hope for things to improve or send his support from afar.

Instead, Mark took it upon himself to orchestrate a food drive here at Rochester PD to help officers in an extremely tumultuous time. He collected money donations, food and clothing. Mark rented a trailer and used his personal vehicle to venture into the unrest, letting officers know that we, as a community, were here to support.

Mark’s heart and life revolve around being a police officer. A natural helper, he dedicated his life to protect those who needed support. Unfortunately, many physical issues have limited his ability to be on the street.  He has had heart problems for many years with over 50 procedures to include several to correct cardiac ablations and a valve replacement.

On October 4th, 2015, Mark’s life and his family’s lives changed forever. Mark began experiencing flu-like symptoms, severe headaches, loss of eyesight and had trouble getting words out. Those who know Mark, will know that Mark never has trouble telling you what he thinks.

Mark was hospitalized and doctors found several brain hemorrhages likely caused by blood thinners used after his heart valve replacement. A rare bacterial infection was confirmed, antibiotics introduced as a mass on his artificial valve was discovered and eventually surgery (Craniotomy) was completed to stop the bleeds.

Mark has used most, if not all, time allowed from the Police Department and options are being looked at on how to help out. Mark’s wife, Cara, has also run out of time she can use at her work and still needs to be a full-time mom, wife and caretaker. Mark did not want this type of help and was against asking for support but we all know that even the proudest of us need the help of others to make it through difficult times.

Mark is a person who can’t remain idle both professionally and personally. He has a beautiful wife and two wonderful and very energetic children. Now is our time to help Mark and his family. It is our time to give. Many of us look for an easy way to make a difference in someone’s life and this could not be much simpler. Please give what you can to help a wonderful family make it through some very tough times. Your contributions will be used to help with the day to day necessities required of any family.