First responders from across North Texas are embarking on a four-day journey to honor firefighters who have lost their lives to cancer.
“Cancer is the leading cause of death for firefighters,” says Firefighter Joe Warne, who is spearheading the state’s first WalkForTheRed140 event.
Warne is actually from Michigan, but wanted to bring the event to Texas when he learned that his former captain in Celina had lost his battle with cancer. “This means the world to me,” Warne says. “But it’s not about me. It’s about the ones who have passed away and the ones who are still. battling.”
Firefighters from Plano, Rowlett, Lancaster, Fort Worth and Mansfield are joining in on the walk, which kicked off this morning in downtown Celina. It will end Sunday in Plano after first responders have trekked 140 miles, many in full gear.
The families of five fallen firefighters were given gifts during an emotional ceremony this morning in downtown Celina. Kelly Engelbert and her son, Thomas, were among them. They’re the wife and son of former Celina Fire Chief Martin Engelbert, who lost his battle to cancer in November. Kelly Is helping lead today’s leg of the walk in his honor.
“I know that Martin’s so excited that this finally came about,” Kelly said. “We’re pure proud.”
You can follow the walk on Facebook. You can also donate to the cause at wedontjudge.org.
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