Hello, my name is Travis Emerling, and I’m proud to serve with Polk County Fire. This year, I’m participating in the Firefighter Stair Climb for the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS) for the second time, climbing 69 stories at the iconic Columbia Center in Seattle. At 788 feet, it’s the tallest building in Seattle and the second tallest west of the Mississippi, featuring a stunning observatory view of the Emerald City.
I dedicate this climb to my wife’s cousin, Lischele, who bravely fought leukemia and sadly passed away in 2017. This climb is my way of honoring her memory while raising awareness and funds for those affected by blood cancers.
Last year, I completed the climb in 39 minutes, and this year, I’m challenging myself to finish in under 30 minutes. To reach this ambitious goal, I’m training hard, aiming to climb 300 stories each week in full gear.
The Firefighter Stair Climb is the world’s largest on-air stair climb competition, with 2,000 firefighters from across the U.S. and around the globe racing to the top on March 9th. This consistently sold-out event not only showcases our physical endurance but also symbolizes the strenuous journey that blood cancer patients endure. Every step we take represents a move toward finding a cure, and the climb serves as a powerful reminder of the challenges faced by those battling these diseases.
Over its 34-year history, this inspiring event has raised over $30 million for LLS, funding vital research and patient support services. I’m asking for your help in continuing this important work. Every donation, no matter how small, brings us closer to a world without leukemia and lymphoma.
Thank you for considering supporting this important cause. Together, we can make a difference for countless patients and their families. On behalf of blood cancer patients everywhere, I truly appreciate your support!
For more information about LLS, please visit lls.org.