By Sheldon Spackman

Sylvan Lake firefighters climb Calgary’s tallest building for a good cause

Apr 30, 2018 | 1:45 PM

A pair of Sylvan Lake firefighters were among 500 from across the province that climbed the steps of the Bow Tower in Calgary on Sunday to raise awareness and support for firefighters and citizens living with cancer.

Matt Downey and Steve Scanland of the Sylvan Lake Fire Department participated in the Firefighter Stairclimb Challenge on April 29 in support of Wellspring Calgary. It’s an organization that according to its website provides a comprehensive range of support, resources and free programs for anyone living with cancer and for the people who care about them. It’s also described as a place where people with cancer, their families and friends can exchange information, develop a support system and create a sense of hope in a warm, caring and welcoming atmosphere.

Sylvan Lake Fire Department (SLFD) officials say Downey and Scanland climbed 775 vertical feet or 1,204 steps in 50 pounds of full duty gear in a glass stairwell where the temperature was in the high 20’s.

According to the Sylvan Lake Fire Department’s Facebook page, the SLFD team raised over $3,600, with the total raised for this event coming in at over $330,000.

Officials with the SLFD also add that a portion of the proceeds raised from Sunday’s challenge will be gifted to the Firefighters Assistance Charitable Society (FACS) whose mission is to empower and strengthen the firefighter by enhancing the success and resilience of the firefighter community.

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The Sylvan Lake Fire Department thanks the Sylvan Lake and District Lions Club for being a major team sponsor for this year’s event.