Rick Belland knows what it means to serve others. After a 30-year career with Edmonton Fire Rescue as a Senior Captain, he retired in 2009 and moved to Penticton, B.C., with his wife nine years ago. Now, 72 years old, Rick continues to push himself physically while supporting causes that matter deeply to him.
Last year, Rick saw the Firefighter Stairclimb Challenge and decided to take it on. At 71 years old, climbing 57 storeys and 1,370 steps in gear was no small feat, and he believes he was the oldest firefighter participating in the event. Now 72, he is preparing to return this June and do it all again.
For Rick, the reason behind the climb is simple.
“When I was asked why I wanted to do it, I asked if they knew anyone who had or has cancer,” he said.
Like many people, Rick has seen the impact cancer can have on families, friends, and communities. His grandfather passed away from lung cancer. He has also lost uncles, friends, fellow firefighters, and even family pets to the disease.
“Over the years, we have lost many firefighters and friends and relatives due to cancer,” Rick shared.
His commitment to cancer fundraising is something that has followed him into retirement. At ages 64 and 65, Rick completed the Ride to Conquer Cancer from Vancouver, a two-day cycling journey covering 100 kilometres each day to help raise money for cancer-related causes.
Now, the Firefighter Stairclimb Challenge has become another way for him to contribute while continuing to challenge himself physically as he gets older.
“I get to challenge myself as I age and contribute to a worthwhile cause,” he said.
While Rick may be retired from the fire service, his dedication to community and helping others remains as strong as ever. Thank you, Rick, for continuing to support this event and all Albertans impacted by cancer.
