GLENVILLE, W.Va. — Gilmer County Sheriff Donald “Smokey” Belin is battling pancreatic cancer and today and his community is stepping up to help.
There’s a benefit dinner beginning at 11 a.m. today at the Gilmer County Recreation Center in Glenville to help finance expenses associated with his treatments.
Belin found out he had pancreatic cancer in late May not long after his brother died of the same disease. Belin’s mother also died of pancreatic cancer in 2010.
Belin said he was losing weight but had no idea he was sick.
“The weight loss, I’m the type of person that I can stop eating this or that and I can lose weight really fast. I didn’t think much about it until I started feeling sick,” Belin said Friday during an appearance on MetroNews Midday.
Belin, who was elected in 2024, is the first Black elected sheriff in the history of the state.
“It’s through the grace of God and you live life the best way you know how. By serving others the best you can anybody can reach this goal, anybody,” he said.
West Virginia Sheriff’s Association Executive Director Rodney Miller said Belin is top of the line in his book.
“If we can all meet the standard that Smokey set for us we’re going to be alright. He’s just flat, good people,” Miller said.
Belin joined the military after high school. A bad auto accident ended his military career. He came home to North Carolina and began a law enforcement career that lasted for 21 years before his retirement. He moved to Gilmer County and became chief deputy. He said the former sheriff fired him but the community rallied around him and elected him to the office almost two years ago.
He said he owes so much to the people of Gilmer County.
“From day one, from day one, they have loved me and taken me in as a brother and that means a lot to me,” Belin said.
Today’s menu includes baked steak, mashed potatoes, green beans, salad, a roll and dessert.
Organizers have said they are still working on a safe way for people to give a monetary donation to help Belin.
Those with questions can call 304-871-6855.