A long-serving Vancouver police superintendent is in the hospital after suffering an unexpected health issue.
Supt. Lisa Byrne spent a week in the hospital's intensive care unit earlier this year after having a "serious and unexpected health event" around Jan. 17 and has a long road of recovery ahead, according to a .
A friend of Byrne, Pam Dixon, wrote “Thankfully she is one of the toughest people I know, so I have no doubt she will be able to get through this.”
Byrne is a Burnaby and Whistler resident, raised in Alberta, and has been with Vancouver police since 2000.
During her time at the Vancouver Police Department (VPD), she’s worked as a detective in the gang crime unit, combined forces special enforcement unit, homicide unit and the sex crimes unit. Byrne climbed the ranks from a constable to detective, to sergeant and inspector to working as a superintendent in investigative services for the past four years.
In 2009, Byrne was named police officer of the year award and has two service awards from the province of B.C.
"Everyone knows Lisa is an extremely hard worker and dedicated member of the VPD. She passionately advocates for her members and is known as a valued leader in the policing community across Canada," wrote Dixon.
According to the Vancouver police's website, Byrne also volunteers her time to ensure the wellness of other members of the VPD and their families throughout the year.
Dixon created the GoFundMe for Byrne and noted her friend is a very proud person who would never ask for this kind of help, which is why she has set up the fundraiser with the blessing of Byrne's family.
Dixon said Byrne's prognosis is positive but she will have a long way to go with her physical recovery and rehab.
The fundraiser has raised more than $44,840 since it was created on Jan. 29.
Dixon said any funds not used for Byrne's recovery will be donated to a charity of Bryne's choice.
The money raised will be used for medical equipment and treatment not covered by MSP. It will also cover travel expenses for family members and pay for possible renovations now needed at their house.
Responding to a LinkedIn post sharing her GoFundMe Tuesday, Bryne wrote: "Thanks everybody. I'm working hard to recover and miss everybody terribly."
