A team of auxiliary firefighters from Abbotsford was among the top group fundraisers at the BC Lung Association’s 19th annual Climb the Wall event on Sunday, while their team captain was the top individual fundraiser.
The team was second with a fundraising total of almost $9,300, while captain Adam Campbell collected just over $6,300.
Abbotsford Fire Rescue Service also had a team of career firefighters at the event.
More than 500 participants – of whom more than 300 were firefighters – turned out for Climb the Wall, which was held at the Sheraton Vancouver Wall Centre.
They climbed 48 storeys (439 steps), and firefighters competed for the fastest climbing time while wearing their full protective gear weighing more than 50 pounds.
Climb the Wall raises funds for vital lung-patient support programs, research and advocacy initiatives in support of the one in five British Columbians affected by a lung or breathing condition.
“This was a standout year for our Climb the Wall event, in large part thanks to the enthusiasm of our key event partners, chief amongst them B.C.’s firefighting community,” said BC Lung Association CEO Chris Lam.