BERKELEY COUNTY, S.C. — A Lowcountry community is coming together to support one of its own, as a veteran South Carolina game warden faces a life-changing cancer diagnosis.
First Sergeant Jamie Mills, known to many in the region as “Beau Gator,” is currently battling stomach cancer. Mills, who serves in Region 4, is widely recognized for his years of service protecting wildlife and assisting residents across Berkeley County and beyond.
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Now, colleagues, first responders and neighbors are stepping up to return that same support.
Fundraiser planned in Moncks Corner
A multi-agency fundraiser is set for April 16 at the Santee Circle Rural Fire Station in Moncks Corner, organized in partnership with the Berkeley County Sheriff’s Office and other local agencies.
From 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., supporters can pick up $10 lunch plates featuring barbecue sandwiches, baked beans, coleslaw and chips. Organizers strongly encourage pre-ordering meals in advance to help ensure enough food is prepared.
All fundraiser proceeds will be processed through the Harry Hampton Wildlife Fund, ensuring that 100% of donations go directly to Mills and his family.
A family facing mounting challenges
In addition to the community fundraiser, an online campaign is also gaining traction as friends and supporters work to ease the financial burden of Mills’ diagnosis.
According to the GoFundMe page, Mills is a newly married father of two young children who now faces mounting medical expenses tied to treatment, hospital stays, travel for specialized care and everyday living costs.
“Jamie has always been there for his community,” the campaign reads. “Now, he needs that same support as he begins this fight.”
How you can help
Community members have multiple ways to support Jamie Mills and his family:
- Attend the April 16 fundraiser:
Purchase a $10 (or more) lunch plate at the Santee Circle Rural Fire Station between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. The fire station is located at: 1399 N. Hwy 52 in Moncks Corner - Pre-order meals in advance:
Reserve lunch plates ahead of time through the SCDNR pre-order link to guarantee availability. - Donate directly through the Harry Hampton Wildlife Fund:
Contributions can be made online using PayPal, Venmo, debit or credit card. Donors are asked to include the note “Jamie Mills” to ensure funds are directed properly. - Give through the GoFundMe campaign:
Online donations of any size will help cover medical bills, travel costs and daily expenses for Mills’ family.
Organizers emphasize that every dollar — whether through a meal purchase, online donation or fundraiser contribution — goes a long way in helping the Mills family focus on what matters most: his fight and recovery.
‘We are a family’
In its social media post, SCDNR described the agency as a close-knit family — a sentiment now echoed across Berkeley County.
From law enforcement agencies to local residents, the outpouring of support highlights the impact Mills has had throughout his career.
As the community rallies behind “Beau Gator,” one thing is clear: the man who has spent years serving others is not facing this battle alone.
