Cancer Survivor Denied Jail Medical Care, Dies

Gene Rush, a cancer survivor who had his voice box removed in 2003, died in Porter County Jail over the July 4th weekend. His family claims jail staff neglected to provide him with essential medical care. Rush, who used bandanas to cover his tracheostomy tube, was arrested on July 2 for allegedly driving with a suspended license. His wife, Kim, who had previously worked for the Sheriff's Department for 30 years, repeatedly informed the jail about his medical needs.

Despite these warnings, Rush reportedly struggled to breathe. Medics were called to assist with his tracheostomy tube around 4:20 a.m. on July 4. However, three hours later, he was found deceased. A preliminary autopsy suggested his heart stopped due to a lack of air from mucus buildup. His family is preparing a lawsuit and seeks a review of the jail's policies, stating that access to medical care was denied.