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October 2025
Partnering to Reduce Cancer in the Fire ServiceCommitted to supporting firefighters
We’re proud to be recognized as a National Firefighter Registry Cancer Champion by the NIOSH National Firefighter Registry for Cancer.
This honor reflects our commitment to supporting you with life-saving early cancer detection education & resources—reducing the #1 cause of line-of-duty deaths in the fire service.
Primary Purpose of the NFR Registry:
- Identify links between firefighting activities and specific types of cancer.
- Improve prevention and protection strategies for firefighters through evidence-based safety standards.
- Guide future research on occupational exposures and cancer risks in the fire service.
Why It Matters:
- Quantify risk more accurately than previous small or regional studies.
- Inform policy changes, equipment standards, and cancer prevention programs.
- Support early detection and awareness efforts within the fire service.
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30 In, 30 OutDetecTogether T-shirt Made for Firefighters
You know the saying “30 in, 30 out” — 30 years of dedicated service, and 30 more years to enjoy the life you’ve earned. That spirit of balance and brotherhood sparked our new DetecTogether T-shirt design. It was also inspired by a true leader and friend, Matt Alba, Battalion Chief in the Division of Health, Safety & Wellness at the San Francisco Fire Department.
This limited-edition T-shirt symbolizes what every firefighter deserves: a long, healthy life after the job.
Here’s how you can get yours:
Donate $50 or more, receive a free “30 In, 30 Out” T-shirt.
Your contribution directly supports DetecTogether’s early cancer detection program, helping us teach firefighters nationwide how to recognize the early signs of cancer and take action before it’s too late.
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What We AvoidThe reality
Let’s be honest—no one dreams of going to the doctor.
Or waiting in line for a porta-potty. Ever.
But avoiding unpleasant things can cost more than time. Sometimes, it costs lives—and your crew needs you.
If you notice subtle or persistent changes in your health that last two weeks or more, it’s time to check in with a doctor.
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President and Executive Director, Tricia Laursen & Co-founder and Chief Volunteer, Jim Coghlin Sr.
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Driving Change, Saving LivesA round of applause for our incredible friends at Golf Fights Cancer & for every golfer who teed up for DetecTogether!
Generosity on the course turned into a powerful $20,000 donation, helping fuel lifesaving early cancer detection for firefighters.
This is what the power of philanthropy looks like — turning drives and putts into real-world impact. We simply couldn’t do this work without you.
To everyone who played, cheered, sponsored, and supported — thank you for being part of this winning team.
Mark your calendars: June 4 & 5, 2026, we’ll be back on the greens. Think about joining us to keep driving change & saving lives.
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See Something, Feel Something, Say SomethingBreast awareness saves lives, not just in October
- The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that breast cancer is the most common cancer worldwide
- Breast cancers are often first found by the individual, not the doctor—making self-awareness & action essential
- 1 in 8 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime
- Men get breast cancer too — about 1 in 833 men
—Reminding us how important it is to know the signs and catch it early.
You play the starring role in early detection. With 3 Steps Detect®, you learn to notice changes, take action to talk to your doctor, and get screened—because when caught early, breast cancer is up to 99% survivable.
It’s time to do more than wear pink — it’s time to check your melons. Watch our melon's video for some of the not-so-obvious warning signs of breast cancer and the importance of self-exams.
P.S. Book your mammogram, ultrasound or MRI before you’re due or if you notice health changes.
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DetecTogether Hits the AirwavesTuning In to Life-Saving Conversations
On October 19, DetecTogether joined K-LOVE Radio to discuss how self-awareness leads to early action—and early detection strategies save lives.
Through 3 Steps Detect, we’re helping listeners everywhere learn how to notice important health changes that are often ignored and when to seek a healthcare provider's help.
Every conversation matters. Every firefighter's life saved has meaning.
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Old-School Rule Still AppliesMake a CallFor firefighters, if you’re 40 or older, talk with a doctor about prostate cancer screenings.
Prostate cancer rates are rising, and more men are being diagnosed at later stages, when treatment can be harder and outcomes worse.
Between screenings, use 3 Steps Detect® to know your baseline great health, notice changes, and act to catch cancer early to save your own life.
↓Click below to view CDC PSA screening facts.
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Support Shrewsbury, MA Police & DetecTogether by Getting Pink Patch Project Merch🎗
Show your support for the Shrewsbury Police Department, breast cancer, and DetecTogether’s life-saving early cancer detection mission.
The Pink Patch Project celebrates the power of community, courage, and early cancer detection. Stand with those who serve and those fighting for their health.
Together, we’re saving lives—one check, one patch, 3 Steps Detect at a time.
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Every Mile for Someone I Love and Early Detection
TCS New York City Marathon — November 2, 2025
"This hits close to home: My aunt died of cancer at age 43. Early detection would have made a massive difference. My mother-in-law, two of my wife's sisters, and one of my best friends have all battled cancer. Everywhere I turn, friends and acquaintances are facing this disease, and I know that early detection is the key. No doubt, hundreds of thousands of lives can be saved."
Together, we can save more lives.
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KaraBreast Cancer Survivor, FirefighterDiagnosed at 42
"My experience with cancer has caused me to be kinder with myself. I'm not done with the post-cancer meds and check-ups, so I have had to recognize that while I am not where I want to be physically and fitness-wise, I will be.
It's also put a lot in perspective. I know how lucky I am to have caught this early, and I know others have not been as lucky. I don't take that lightly, and I try to make the most of my time, especially with my loved ones. "
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Your cancer diagnosis experience can help others detect cancer early. Consider sharing it to raise awareness and save lives.
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Our donors' generosity makes our educational programs possible. Please consider making a gift today.
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