Cynthia "Cindy" Vela was diagnosed with Stage 3 Clear Cell Renal Cell Carcinoma (ccRCC) just before her 58th birthday in June 2024.

Although her family has a history of cancer, it still came as quite a shock for her to hear those words, "You have cancer."

Cindy underwent surgery right away to remove her left kidney in order to save her right kidney, and stop the cancer from spreading to her other organs.

She will undergo immunotherapy treatments every three weeks for a year to keep cancer from returning and will have regular testing to monitor her condition.

Cindy has been with the police department for 23 years and currently serves as a Police Records Supervisor.

She has also served as a board member of the National Latino Peace Officers Association and she participates in community events and fundraisers.

Cindy loves to sing, dance, read, go to the movies, spend time with family, and go to the gym for some Zumba classes. She's often asked to sing at various events, but her favorite is singing the National Anthem because it gives her an opportunity to show her pride for her country and honor the men and women who serve our community and nation everyday.

Cindy has a son, Jonathan, who was born and raised in Sacramento but now lives in Kentucky with his wife Liz and their fur babies.

Cindy's mom, stepdad, brother, sister, and brother-in-law all live in Sacramento. They are very supportive and give their time to help her get to treatments, keep her company, and help her with chores around the house.