Lompoc firefighter on the mend after colon cancer diagnosis
LOMPOC, Calif. - A Lompoc firefighter is on the road to recovery after undergoing treatment for colon cancer that was discovered during a yearly medical screening.
Engineer Chris Martinez learned he had a cancerous mass in his colon after an irregularity was discovered in his bloodwork during a National Fire Protection Association health screening.
Days after the irregularity was discovered, Martinez underwent surgery to remove the mass and 45 lymph nodes. After surgery, Martinez began six months' worth chemotherapy.
He continued to keep up with his daily routines, according to the Lompoc Fire Department. He made adjustments to his schedule and was supported by his family (both directly related and from his department) throughout the process.
Martinez' chemotherapy regimen is winding down and he was recently informed that he can end a round early. He'll be returning to work soon.
You might notice Lompoc fire engines that are sporting blue ribbon decals as well as firefighters wearing "Martinez Strong" bracelets. The small gestures are meant to offer love and support to their comrade during his medical treatment.
The fire department says Martinez's story is a cautionary tale about the risks that firefighters face. Not only do firefighters run into the flames, unseen risks include the continued exposure to carcinogens.
The Lompoc Fire Department has added policies that aim to help address the issue through training and equipment decontamination. The department hopes the new policies will limit fire personnel exposure to harmful carcinogens both around the fire station and at the scene of emergencies.
"Firefighting is obviously a dangerous job and over the past few years, the risk of exposure from carcinogens has been heavily researched. The information and data has caused the fire service to take a closer look at both our prevention and healthcare models," Battalion Chief Brian Federmann said in a press release. "Cancer in the fire service has now become one of the leading causes of death and firefighters are at greater risk of being diagnosed with cancer than the general population."
The fire department is still asking for prayers and positive thoughts for Martinez and his family as his treatment comes to an end and he begins the process of reintegrating back into the working world.
"On behalf of the Martinez Family, the Department thanks everyone for their continued support and privacy in this matter. We are ecstatic to know that Martinez will be returning to work shortly, stronger than ever," the press release reads.
