FCSN BLOG

As 2024 comes to a close, the Firefighter Cancer Support Network (FCSN) is proud to reflect on a year of exponential growth and lifesaving impact—all made possible by the commitment and generosity of amazing donors. Together, we’ve taken critical steps toward keeping our nation’s brave firefighters safe as they risk their lives to protect others.

This year, FCSN’s initiatives have educated thousands of firefighters about cancer risks in their profession, provided vital cancer screenings, and expanded our reach to serve even more heroes in need. Below are just a few highlights of the incredible impact YOU helped us achieve in 2024:

Skin Cancer Screenings Save Lives

Thanks to a partnership with the American Academy of Dermatology and funding from FEMA, FCSN facilitated nearly 2,900 skin cancer screenings for firefighters at nine locations across the country. These screenings are critical to early cancer detection and saving lives.

As awareness of this program grows, more dermatologists are stepping up to join the effort. In 2025, 42 new screening locations will launch across the U.S., initiated by dermatologists inspired to make a difference.

Educational Outreach Reaches New Heights

FCSN’s educational program—partially funded by FEMA—has reached over 7,000 firefighters nationwide in 2024, delivering critical training on cancer prevention, early detection, and protective measures.

Of those trained, 3,300 firefighters participated through FCSN's growing online learning management system. This efficient digital tool has become an essential resource for fire departments nationwide. States like New Hampshire, Texas, and Massachusetts have integrated FCSN’s training into their fire service curriculum, ensuring every new recruit completes this vital education.

Our impact has even gone international: through a partnership with Africa Fire Mission, FCSN delivered training to 55 firefighters in Africa, equipping them with lifesaving knowledge to protect their health.

Empowering Volunteers to Lead the Fight Against Cancer

In September 2024, FCSN hosted an in-person training session in Dallas for 80 volunteers consisting of our state directors and mentors. This FEMA-funded event provided hands-on training to ensure volunteers are prepared to support firefighters, EMS workers, and their families facing cancer. The dedication of these volunteers is the heart of FCSN’s mission, and their work is changing lives every day.

Rising Demand for FCSN’s Services

While 2024 brought remarkable progress, the need for FCSN’s services continues to grow. In 2023, FCSN provided support to more than 300 firefighters and their immediate family members in the U.S. and Canada battling cancer. By the end of 2024, we anticipate surpassing 400 individuals served.

This growing demand underscores the urgency of our work. Whether it’s providing emotional support, connecting firefighters to resources, or educating them about the importance of early detection, FCSN is committed to ensuring no firefighter faces cancer alone.

Answer the Call Before 2024 Is Over

As we reflect on the tremendous progress made this year, we’re reminded that our mission is far from complete. Firefighters across the nation, and Canada, rely on your support to receive the care, education, and resources they need to stay safe while protecting our communities.

Your donation to the Firefighter Cancer Support Network (FCSN) can make a direct, lifesaving impact.

By giving today, you can:

- Educate firefighters about cancer prevention and the importance of early detection.
- Ensure no firefighter has to face cancer alone.
- Provide comfort and strength to firefighters and their families during their most difficult times.

It’s not too late to answer the call for the heroes who risk their lives to protect us. With your support, we can build on the success of 2024 and make 2025 an even greater year of impact for the fire service community.

From all of us at FCSN, thank you for standing with us in this fight. Together, we can save lives and give hope to those who need it most.

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Donate Today and make a difference.

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Wishing you a safe and joyful holiday season,
The Firefighter Cancer Support Network

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