Hundreds of firefighters gather in Calgary for stair climb challenge

Hundreds gathered at Brookfield Place in downtown Calgary Sunday, where firefighters from across North America pushed themselves to the limit for a powerful cause.

Calgary Fire Chief Steve Dongworth was participating in the Firefighter Stair Climb Challenge in support of Wellspring Alberta for the 11th year.

Wellspring Alberta is a charity that offers programs and services at no charge and without referral, to anyone with any type of cancer, and their families.

Dongworth says it’s one of his favourite events throughout the year.

“It is certainly in the top three events I get to do during the year, because it is just a great event, a great cause,” he said. “We are raising money as it’s part of our acknowledgement of how much cancer is an issue for firefighters. We want to prevent it when we can, or support the ones when they do have cancer.”

All proceeds of the event go to the charity.

Wellspring CEO Joanne Aime says its events like this that make all the difference.

“It’s about bringing community to those that need help when they need it,” she said. “So when we see events like this taking place for the firefighters and fire responders, and the public, it’s just fantastic and gives us hope.”

One firefighter attending the event says he’s experienced cancer first hand, and says the event means everything to him.

“This event is incredibly important,” said Tony Cianfarani from Stettler. “I utilized Wellspring’s services when I was going through chemo and the organization is great.

“I think whatever I can do to support them, I will do forever.”

Organizers of the event are confident it will raise over $300,000 this year, which will go toward helping people in their cancer journey.