Blog
January 22, 2025

NEWS: The V Foundation, Emergency Technical Decon, and Emergent Launch “Turnout for Firefighters Cancer Research Fund”


[Cary, NC] – The V Foundation for Cancer Research, in partnership with Emergency Technical Decon (ETD) and Emergent, proudly announce the official launch of the Turnout for Firefighters Cancer Research Fund on January 22, 2025, coinciding with Firefighter Cancer Awareness Month. This initiative is dedicated to addressing the increased cancer risk firefighters face due to carcinogen exposure in the line of duty. 

Firefighters selflessly put their lives on the line every day, but the long-term health risks they endure often go unnoticed. Studies continue to highlight the significant increased risk of certain cancers among firefighters. The Turnout for Firefighters Cancer Research Fund is a transformative effort to fund cutting-edge research aimed at preventing and treating cancers that disproportionately affect firefighters. 

As we launch this initiative, our thoughts are with the brave firefighters and communities impacted by the L.A. fires. This devastating event serves as an important reminder of the sacrifices firefighters make daily—not only confronting danger but also enduring long-term risks like cancer from carcinogen exposure. This fund reflects our shared commitment to addressing these ongoing challenges and supporting the first responders who put their lives on the line to protect others.

The Power of Partnership 

This initiative, powered by ETD and Emergent, aligns with the V Foundation’s mission to support groundbreaking research. 100% of direct donations go straight to cancer research—the fund will support leading cancer researchers with a proven track record in addressing occupational cancer risks. 

“Firefighters are heroes, consistently thinking of others above themselves and saving lives,” said Shane Jacobson, CEO of the V Foundation. “We’re extremely proud to launch this partnership with ETD and Emergent, making a game-changing stand to help these heroes who face cancer by funding all-star scientists researching better prevention and detection tools, treatment options of the future and lifesaving cures. The proven, positive impact of cancer research is clear, and we’re excited to fund innovative research to help firefighters facing this terrible disease now and into the future.” 

“Our goal is to accelerate Victory Over Cancer® and provide solutions for firefighters, their families, and communities across the nation,” said Rex and Krista Hughes, leaders in this joint effort. “By pairing game-changing research with innovative decontamination solutions from Emergency Technical Decon and situational awareness data collection from Emergent, we are underlining activity around firefighter cancer prevention and taking a bold step toward protecting the heroes who protect our communities.” 

How You Can Get Involved 

As part of this campaign, the firefighter community and the public are invited to contribute in the following ways: 

  • Donate: Give directly to the “Turnout for Firefighters Fund” by visiting https://v.org/firefighters.
  • Fundraise: Host fundraising events with your firehouse or community to raise awareness and support. 
  • Educate: Share your experiences or the stories of those impacted by cancer to inspire others to join the cause. 

The initiative also integrates innovative decontamination technologies and solutions provided by ETD and Emergent to further reduce carcinogen exposure among firefighters. 

Join the Fight 

For more information about the “Turnout for Firefighters Cancer Research Fund” and to join our efforts in saving lives, visit https://v.org/firefighters. Together, we can make a difference in the lives of those who dedicate themselves to protecting ours. 

+++

Link to full press release.


Featured image for “NEWS: The V Foundation, Emergency Technical Decon, and Emergent Launch “Turnout for Firefighters Cancer Research Fund””