Brockton firefighter and Local 144 Union President Bill Hill has always answered the call. As a professional firefighter in Massachusetts since 1995, assigned to Squad A on Pleasant Street, in Brockton, he’s stood up for his brothers, sisters, and community. Now, he’s facing a battle of his own—and I am honored to stand with him.

For my 14th Pan-Massachusetts Challenge ride in August, Bill, a longtime friend, is granting me the honor of dedicating this year’s ride to him. Or as I am calling it: A Ride for “Squad B.”

Bill is currently fighting germ cell cancer.  His first battle was testicular cancer in 2012. This time, cancer returned unexpectedly, with masses near his kidney and neck. He is currently recuperating from surgery in April, following an intense round of chemotherapy.

Bill’s cancer is classified as an occupational cancer.  According to the Firefighter Cancer Support Network, firefighters face a 9% higher risk of developing cancer and firefighters face a significantly higher risk of developing cancer than the general population. They are routinely exposed to carcinogens such as benzene, formaldehyde, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), and per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) found in firefighting gear. These exposures occur during fire suppression activities and can persist due to contaminated equipment and gear.

Bill’s diagnosis wasn’t random. It was caught thanks to the GRAIL Galleri test—a cutting-edge blood test that screens for over 50 types of cancer. He took it after attending an educational seminar, because of experiencing back pain. That test flagged cancer and without it, the mass pressing on his kidney might have gone undetected for much longer. Bill is receiving his ongoing care through Dana-Farber and was able to get care immediately thanks to their DirectConnect program for first responders.

If you know Bill, you know he’s not just a fighter. He’s a fierce advocate of cancer screening for his fellow firefighter brethren and he’s a leader, a listener, and someone who never asks for anything he wouldn’t do himself. Today, I’m asking for your support to my PMC ride to honor him and encourage him in his cancer journey.

Let’s show up for the guy who’s always shown up for everyone else!

Thank you for your consideration.

Anyone wishing to support my ride may do so at: www.pmc.org/JK0245

Thank you!