Snohomish County firefighters who plan to raise money for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society by climbing 1,311 steps to the top of a Seattle skyscraper will dedicate the climb to a fellow firefighter who was recently diagnosed with leukemia.
Fire District 1 firefighter John Jacobson was diagnosed with cancer less than two weeks ago. He started treatment last week, taking a medication developed about two years ago that has a proven success rate, district spokeswoman Leslie Hynes said.
A team of 13 firefighters and three helpers planned to participate in the annual Firefighter Challenge today. The firefighters climb the 69 floors of the Bank of America Tower wearing full bunker gear.
"We do this every year because it’s a good cause. Obviously, this year it’s more personal," said Capt. Dennis Lunny, who will help teammates change air bottles halfway up the climb.
Jacobson is hopeful about his chances for remission of his cancer. Despite advances in treating the disease, more needs to be done, he said.
"Today, the seemingly impossible has happened to me. Tomorrow, it may be you or a loved one," he said. "The only way to put an end to leukemia is to fund the research."
The fire district is accepting donations through March 26 in Jacobson’s name 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekdays at its headquarters, 12310 Meridian Ave., Everett. Checks may be made out to the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society.
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