Bellingham Firefighters Compete in Seattle Stairclimb to Support Cancer Research

Photo by Bellingham Fire DepartmentBellingham firefighters gather as a team before participating in the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society Firefighter Stairclimb in Seattle.

Photo by Bellingham Fire DepartmentFirefighters celebrate completing the 69-floor climb in full gear, marking a major achievement during the stairclimb event.

Photo by Bellingham Fire DepartmentMembers pose together after the event, showing their support for cancer research and fellow firefighters.

Photo by Bellingham Fire DepartmentFirefighters display their completion sign after climbing 1,356 steps during the Seattle stairclimb fundraiser.
March 8, 2026 — Twenty members of the Bellingham Fire Department traveled to Seattle to participate in the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society Firefighter Stairclimb, joining hundreds of firefighters in a powerful show of support for those battling blood cancers.
Competing against 191 teams, the Bellingham firefighters achieved an impressive 8th place overall finish, demonstrating both physical endurance and teamwork. Participants climbed 69 floors—1,356 steps with a 788-foot elevation gain—while wearing full firefighting gear, simulating the demanding conditions firefighters often face on the job.
While the climb is physically challenging, members emphasized that it serves as a reminder of the far greater battles faced by cancer patients and survivors every day. Beyond the climb itself, the team also made a significant impact through fundraising efforts, raising $13,863 in support of the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society.
The event highlights the strong commitment of firefighters not only to emergency response, but also to supporting meaningful causes and standing alongside those in need.

