KINGS COUNTY, Calif. (KFSN) — A sergeant with the Kings County Sheriff’s Office remains hospitalized as doctors work to confirm what they believe may be a rare autoimmune disease affecting his brain and nerves.
Sgt. Andrew Mazza has been in the hospital for nearly three weeks, according to officials. His condition remains under evaluation, though initial concerns pointed to a possible brain tumor.
“His initial symptoms were numbness on the right side of his face and slightly slurred speech. He immediately went to the ER,” said KCSO Commander Nate Ferrier.
After additional testing, Ferrier said doctors now suspect Mazza may be suffering from a rare autoimmune disease known as MOGAD.
“It is a rare disease that attacks the nerves and the brain, and they sent a sample off to the Mayo Clinic for testing,” Ferrier said.
The condition has impacted Mazza’s mobility and cognitive abilities.
Ferrier, who has known Mazza throughout his 12-year career with the department, said the situation has been difficult, especially in the early stages when a tumor was suspected.
“I am better now, but initially I was very emotional. Yhere was even a time I broke down,” Ferrier said. “At that point, we were thinking it was a brain tumor, and it was cancer, and we know that generally doesn’t end well.”
Mazza, who is days away from turning 40, lives with his wife, who is a local teacher, and their four-year-old daughter. His absence has been felt both at home and within the sheriff’s office.
Ferrier described Mazza as a key member of the department, overseeing multiple programs and responsibilities.
As Mazza continues to receive treatment and awaits a definitive diagnosis, his family is asking the community for prayers as they navigate an uncertain path to recovery.
If people would like to make monetary donations, they can do so here on the PORAC (Peace Officers Research Association of California) official website.
By ABC 30″S Kassandra Gutierrez.
