On Sunday, firefighters from across the province were in Calgary to climb 57 stories, totalling 1,370 steps at Brookfield Place for the 10th annual Firefighter Stairclimb. Rickey-Lee DeVries, with the Airdrie Fire Department, was one of two firefighters from Airdrie who took part.

"It was a great event; I liked taking part in it and it's for a good case as well."

Firefighters from Carstairs, Didsbury and other surrounding communities also participated in the fundraising event.

Last year when DeVries participated in the event she had a time of 17 minutes and 50 seconds. This year she had a time of 15 minutes and 38 seconds. This was her fifth time participating. 

"I like training for it, it's a good way to help me stay active while I'm preparing for it. It's a great way to see people that I haven't seen in a while."

DeVries highlighted that she was able to see old co-workers from Vulcan and Champion where she first started her career.

The event was initially inspired by Kathy Blas, the sibling of a fallen firefighter Gord Paul. 

"The event supports firefighters and citizens in our community who are fighting cancer, with proceeds going towards Wellspring Alberta. This event spotlights firefighters and underscores the risks they take every day when they go to work. It also reflects how Wellspring Alberta’s mission relates to the important work they do," The Firefighter Stairclimb Challenge website stated.

Proceeds from the Firefighter Stairclimb Challenge will ensure Wellspring Alberta can provide programs and services to firefighters and all citizens living with cancer. DeVries fundraised $450 for the event. 

DeVries also mentioned she plans on attending the event next year. 

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