Airdrie fire recruit class targets $5,500 for cancer care fundraiser

Eleven firefighters from Airdrie Fire Department's Recruit Class Four are climbing 1,370 stairs—equivalent to 57 stories—at Brookfield Place in downtown Calgary on June 14 to raise money for cancer support services.

The Firefighter Stairclimb Challenge is an annual event with a personal resonance for the recruits. Cancer is a prevalent occupational hazard in the fire service, and the fundraiser supports Wellspring Alberta, which provides supportive care to firefighters and citizens fighting cancer.

The initiative was originally inspired by Kathy Blas, sister of local fallen firefighter Gord Paul. Recruit Garret Williams said the effort evolved into a full department-wide initiative.

"It's really a well-rounded opportunity for us to give back," Williams said. "Cancer in the fire service is one thing, but cancer in general affected me personally—some grandparents who have passed away from cancer, and some co-workers from my previous job who passed away from cancer."

The recruit class has set a goal of $5,500 and has raised $3,000 so far. Anyone looking to donate can visit https://give.wellspring.ca/fundraisers/AirdrieFireClass4Recruits/firefighter-stairclimbchallenge-2026.