On Sunday, May 5th, hundreds of firefighters in full firefighting gear turned up at the BOW tower in Calgary, for the fifth annual stair climb challenge.

Firefighters from all across North America climbed the steps of one of Western Canada’s tallest buildings, in support of firefighters and citizens living with cancer.

Two Airdrie firefighters participated in the annual firefighter's stair climb challenge.

The firefighters climb 775 vertical feet, going up 1,204 steps in their full duty gear. A starting elevation of 3,400 feet above sea level makes this the highest elevation firefighter stair climb in the world.

The event was inspired by Seattle’s ‘Scott Firefighter Stairclimb’ and founded by Kathy Blas, the sister of a fallen firefighter, Gord Paul, from Calgary.

In Alberta, there are 17 presumptive cancers recognized as occupational hazards of a firefighter’s job.

The goal of this event is to bring awareness and support to firefighters and citizens living with cancer.

Event proceeds support Wellspring Calgary, a local non-profit organization that offers programs, services and resources for people living with cancer and their caregivers. A portion of event proceeds is also going to support the Firefighters Assistance Charitable Society.

Over $383,000 has been raised.

 

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