Believe… 
in giving back.
Travis Young
At a wellness symposium years before my diagnosis, I learned of the Firefighters Cancer Support Network (FCSN), which we always thought would be a great tool should anyone in our department get a cancer diagnosis.
Fast forward to January 2020, after months of seeing an ENT for tonsillitis and a scheduled tonsillectomy. My doctor told us he could not remove the tonsil and instead had it biopsied. On January 31, 2020, I received the devasting CANCER diagnosis.
I was 40, in great shape, with a beautiful wife and two amazing daughters who needed me. My doctor was optimistic because the cancer was caught early. I endured 30 rounds of radiation.
I was reminded of FCSN and its services. I contacted the network, received my toolbox, and connected to a mentor. My mentor, Craig, helped me through my darkest moments. He listened and cheered me up. With him, I didn’t have to be tough or smile when things weren’t okay. Craig and I are still great friends, and I consider him family. I can’t thank FCSN enough for this support!
I am in remission. I have since gone back to work and received a promotion to Captain. I am now a mentor and hope I can help a fellow Firefighter in their cancer journey.
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