For his years of service and kindness, the least the community can do for Dallas County Sheriff Deputy Try Stokes Jr. is make the uncertainty of the coming months less stressful.

Stokes has stage four esophageal cancer, which means the cancer has spread throughout his body. Doctors are not sure of his life expectancy.

Two years ago, he discovered what he thought was cancer, but a misdiagnosis caused him not to begin to fight the disease until eight weeks ago when it was determined he did have cancer.

Friends of Stokes organized two events, a barbecue sale Saturday at Chuckwagon Steakhouse and raffle for prizes from local businesses on Oct. 30, to raise money to support his medical expenses.

“We just want to do something to help a neighbor,” said George Ferling, organizer of the event. “It’s the Christian thing to do.”

Ferling would like to raise $8,000, which Stokes can use for chemotherapy treatments, hotel expenses or even a trip with his family.

Although Stokes and his wife stay in hotels at discounted rates, traveling to the Cancer Treatment Center of American in Illinois and treatment expenses quickly add up.

Stokes has worked with the Dallas County Sheriff’s Department for more than eight years but currently is on medical leave.

Chief Deputy Randy Pugh said the Sheriff’s office is also doing all they can to accommodate and support Stokes.

“He’s one of ours and that’s why we’re supporting him and doing what we can for him,” Pugh said.

Melissa Stokes, Troy’s wife, pauses to hold back tears as she comments on her gratitude for the community’s support of her family.

“People have just come out from everywhere with their generosity, their prayers, just being so kind to us,” Melissa Stokes said. “This is amazing that they have put together this fundraiser for us and it brings tears to my eyes to know that so many people are so loving and that they’ll do so much for people.”

Troy and Melissa Stokes have four children.

The barbecue fundraiser at Chuckwagon Steakhouse Saturday will begin at noon. Tickets will also be available for the raffle for $10 each. Drawings for items from local merchants and business will be raffled beginning at 2 p.m. on Oct. 30 at Bloch Park. Must be present to win.