Community bands together for Deputy Higbee with benefit concert

SUMMIT COUNTY, Utah — The community and law enforcement are rallying around Summit County Sheriff’s Deputy Taesha Higbee, who was recently diagnosed with a brain tumor. Just four days following her diagnosis, she underwent surgery, which was partially successful in removing the tumor. On Thursday, Dec. 21, at 6 p.m., the Fraternal Order of Police (FOP) Summit Lodge 20 is holding a benefit fundraiser and concert for Deputy Higbee at the Dejoria at High Star Ranch in
Kamas. The benefit concert features Josh Kelly and Brenn Hill, and all proceeds will go towards Higbee’s treatment and recovery.

“Though this is a scary and uncertain journey I am feeling positive and thankful for what I have,” Higbee said in a statement. ‘This experience has helped me realize how fortunate I am, and I want to express how grateful I am for everyone throughout this process. I want to thank my doctors, surgeons, surgical team, nurses, anesthesiologists, and all others who took care of me at the Intermountain Medical Center in Murray, Utah for the incredible care I have received. Without every single expert at IMC, I am sure I would not be in the condition I am in today. I truly believe I have all the best people taking care of me. I want to thank my incredible wife, family, and friends. The amount of support I have received has been overwhelming in the best possible way. To my family at the Summit County Sheriff’s Office, I will never be able to repay the love and generosity you have shown me. I am so proud to be a part of this agency – from the top to the bottom. These are the best people to work with and for. They have all become a second family to me and I am so grateful for each of them. And to the people of Summit County, I could not ask for a better community to work in. The amount of love and support I have felt from all of you is a testament to the quality of people who live and work here. I feel very lucky and proud to be a part of this beautiful, incredible place and I am honored to serve this community. “

Higbee serves as a school resource officer for the North Summit School District and is one of the Sheriff’s Department’s only female defensive tactics instructors. She is described by colleagues as a compassionate individual who embodies the best qualities of the profession.

“Throughout her career, she has consistently demonstrated unwavering commitment to her profession, community, and the students she serves. Colleagues praise her for her work ethic, noting her ability to excel at every task presented to her.”

Higbee’s wife, Jennie, has been a pillar of support for the deputy during this difficult time, rarely leaving her side. The couple is facing the emotional toll of the diagnosis as well as the financial burden of medical expenses.

The community has come together to offer financial assistance for the couple to help take some of the pressure off during this time. Donations will go towards covering medical expenses and ensuring that Jennie can stay by her wife’s side during the recovery process.

To donate to help the deputy and her wife during this difficult time, please visit the Help a Hero website.

 

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