Cancer is the leading cause of death among firefighters in Canada, accounting for 84.6 per cent of claims. For Chantelle Cosgrove, Deputy Fire Chief of Community Risk Reduction with Brampton Fire and Emergency Services, raising awareness of that risk is deeply personal—and part of her commitment to protecting the community she calls home.

This year, Brampton Fire and Emergency Services served as honorary hosts of the Canadian Fallen Firefighters Memorial in Ottawa, honouring the lives of those who have passed both in the line of duty and due to occupational illness.

“When I first started going to the Canadian Fallen Firefighters Memorial, you would see about 20 names added per year,” says Deputy Chief Cosgrove. “This year we put 141 names. Majority of them were occupational illnesses from some form of cancer. It’s such a moving weekend. You see yourself in everyone that’s there.”

Having lost her mother and colleagues to cancer, Deputy Chief Cosgrove understands the devastating impact of the disease. With a sister who works in nursing, she also sees the importance of cancer awareness and care from health care worker’s perspective.

In her role, Deputy Chief Cosgrove advocates for firefighters to consistently use personal protective equipment (PPE) and follow precautions that help reduce their exposure to harmful contaminants.

While advancements in PPE and safety practices are helping firefighters manage occupational risks, cancer remains a significant concern for the profession.  

For Deputy Chief Cosgrove, protecting Brampton also means supporting the health and well-being of the community beyond the fire service. Having grown up in Brampton and helped oversee the construction of Brampton Civic Hospital as an inspector, Cosgrove holds a special place in her heart for William Osler Health System (Osler) hospitals.

“For me, the hospital has been a constant in this city,” says Cosgrove. “Having a hospital close is important.”

That belief in the importance of care close to home is reflected in the Brampton Professional Fire Fighters Association (BPFFA) Lavender Truck campaign. Launched for the second year in August, the campaign raises funds and awareness in support of local cancer care and the development of Brampton’s second hospital at Peel Memorial Centre for Integrated Health and Wellness (Peel Memorial).

“Giving back to the community is what fire service is really about,” says Deputy Chief Cosgrove. “Lavender Truck is a reminder of how fire service can help give back. Having that truck out in the community, it brings awareness.”

Last year, the BPFFA raised $47,000 in support of cancer care. This year, the association is aiming to surpass that total, continuing its commitment to a healthier future for Brampton.

“When we look back at Brampton’s second hospital once it’s built, to say we were a part of that process is so important,” says Deputy Chief Cosgrove. “I love that we can be included in this legacy, and that the Lavender Truck helps that.”

Click below for more information about the BPFFA’s Lavender Truck campaign and how you can support local cancer care.