Charleston Fire Fighter Loses Battle With Cancer

April 24, 2008 – The IAFF is sad to report that recently retired Charleston, SC Local 61 fire fighter Ronnie Campbell, 49, died April 20, 2008, following a courageous battle with esophageal cancer. Local 61 is asking for help to support the Campbell family in their time of need.

Campbell, who is survived by his mother and his two adult children, was diagnosed with cancer late last year and began treatment at the Cancer Treatment Center of America in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Initially, it appeared that the Charleston fire fighter would recover, but the cancer took a turn for the worse. The ongoing medical treatment eventually forced Campbell to use all of his sick and vacation leave, ultimately retiring on disability in March 2008.

With Campbell’s health insurance covering very little, the Local 61 fire fighter’s family is left trying to find a way to pay the $200,000 still owed. Additionally, the South Carolina Retirement System will not cover the funeral costs.

“The last thing anyone should have to worry about in their time of grief is money,” says Roger Yow, president of Charleston Local 61. “We are encouraging everyone to donate to the IAFF Local 61 Benevolence Fund in Campbell’s name. All of the money will go to the family.”

Click here to make a donation.

Local 61 is investigating whether the cancer was occupational. Campbell was exposed to several carcinogens when he responded to a chemical plant explosion in 1990. He was exposed again when he responded to the Sofa Super Store fire last year.