Miracle Fund: Helping Firefighter Matt McFadden

Fight Against Cancer

Introduction

In recent years studies upon studies have shown just how dangerous firefighting can be. Not only because the "Orange Devil" might get you but an invisible enemy. Cancer! Firefighters are nine times more likely to get cancer and 14 times more likely to die from cancer says the CDC National Institute for Occupational Health and Safety. Unfortunately, another firefighter has been affected.

Matt McFadden,35, affectionately known as "Smiley" by many, has dedicated the last 14 years of his life to serving as a firefighter with the Central Arizona Fire and Medical Authority (CAFMA). Growing up in Prescott Valley, AZ, he always felt a calling to this profession, inspired by his older brother, Captain Mike McFadden. From the very beginning, Matt understood the challenges that came with the job, but he also recognized the immense fulfillment it brings. He is committed to putting his life on the line each day, embracing the opportunity to make a difference.

For those familiar with Matt, you know that his infectious smile is a constant presence, no matter what challenges the day may hold. Recently, he and his wife Kahley, along with their two daughters, Brogan (9) and Upton (5), returned to Prescott from Peoria, AZ. This move was motivated by their desire to be closer to family and to the career that Matt is so passionate about. However, the family's relocation was soon overshadowed by some heartbreaking news they never expected to hear. Here is the heartbreaking account shared by his wife of 14 years.

The Story

In May 2023, my husband, Matt, noticed some issues with his balance. Initially, he felt a bit unsteady at times, but it didn’t seem alarming. However, as the months went by, his balance problems worsened significantly. His gait became noticeably affected, and transitioning from sitting to standing became increasingly challenging for him. He also started to experience slurred speech. At the start of 2024, he sustained a back injury during a fire training exercise, which led to him being taken off the engine. Although he went through physical therapy, his doctor was unable to provide any answers regarding his severe neurological symptoms that were continuously getting worse. The district doctor informed Matt that he couldn’t return to duty until there was clarity on these concerning symptoms. My family and I were profoundly worried about how rapidly these issues were developing and Matt was referred to a neurologist for further testing.

While waiting for his appointment with the neurologist, the fire department received a grant for cancer screenings, allowing all members to be tested for various types of cancer. During Matt's screening, doctors discovered a significant mass on one of his testicles, presumably because of his career as a firefighter. Given its size, he was quickly scheduled for surgery to remove the affected testicle. The pathology results confirmed cancer and fortunately, it appeared to be localized. His doctor suggested one more scan to ensure there were no further issues and then he could resume life as normal. Unfortunately, the scan revealed that the cancer had metastasized to his lungs. He has multiple significant nodules, and chemotherapy is the only available treatment option.

A few days after receiving the diagnosis of secondary lung cancer, Matt finally had the opportunity to consult with a neurologist to address his neurological symptoms. After a thorough review and additional tests, his doctor determined that Matt appears to be experiencing Paraneoplastic Cerebellar Degeneration (PCD), a rare neurological condition linked to cancer. This condition arises from an abnormal immune response to tumor cells, resulting in the deterioration of healthy tissue in the cerebellum. Individuals with PCD may gradually lose control over their limbs, balance, eye movements, and, in some instances, their ability to speak. The onset of this disease is typically associated with a tumor, which seems to trigger the immune system's attack on the brain.

The neurological symptoms are currently more challenging for him than the cancer itself. It’s truly heartbreaking to think that the neurological issues Matt is facing might be long-lasting. While there are instances where therapy aimed at the immune system can help reverse some nervous system injuries, it’s often the case that paraneoplastic syndromes lead to lasting damage. The neurologist is diligently conducting tests between chemotherapy sessions to verify the diagnosis of PCD and to rule out any other potential causes for the worsening neurological symptoms. Matt's treatment plan involves surgery and four rounds of chemotherapy infusions, which will begin at the City of Hope in Goodyear, AZ.

His oncology team is firm in their recommendation for him to receive treatment in the valley rather than in Prescott. He will spend one week in the valley for his treatments and then return home for two weeks. After completing the initial chemotherapy infusions, they will conduct scans and reassess his progress.

The Fundraiser

The main purpose of this fundraiser is to assist with the costs that are not covered in Matt’s fight against cancer. Although his cancer is work-related and most expenses are taken care of, there are still several that aren’t. Since the neurologist cannot definitively link his neurological symptoms to the cancer, Matt is responsible for all neurological related medical bills. Matt's team is acutely aware of the rapid advancements in neurological systems and is committed to fully understanding the symptoms at hand. If these neurological issues are indeed linked to PSD, removing the cancer would be essential in preventing the immune system from further attacking his brain. However, it's also possible that these neurological symptoms stem from a different condition, making it crucial to uncover this information as soon as possible. We can't afford to wait until treatment concludes to pinpoint the source of these systems. Although the testing is quite expensive, it is the only way to alleviate these symptoms or prevent them from worsening. We must determine exactly what we are facing which is mainly what the funds will be used for.

Moreover, the funds will also help cover travel expenses for Matt back and forth to the valley, hotel rooms for his weeklong visits to the City of Hope in Goodyear. Unfortunately, the aggressive chemotherapy infusions come with side effects that make it very challenging for him to travel back and forth from Phoenix to Prescott. He typically stays in the valley, with a caregiver, for a week at a time, and the costs of hotels and gas are accumulating rapidly.

In addition, the money received will be used to purchase any assistive walking devices, if it comes to that. And finally help with childcare. Matt's wife occasionally needs assistance with childcare so she can be there to support him. However, their youngest daughter has special needs and relies on a feeding tube, which means she needs constant care.

Unfortunately, at this moment, only a nurse or someone with specialized training can provide the necessary support for her which is more financial support that is needed.

Any unused funds from the fundraiser will be donated to a firefighter cancer foundation or a similar charity that supports first responders and cancer research.

Thank You

We sincerely appreciate all the support we've received during this challenging time. Matt's greatest wish is to return to the fire engine which is where his heart lies. I also thank you so very much for all your calls and text messages you are sending him ad they are truly motivating him to persevere. We will keep everyone informed as we navigate this journey together.

My name is Rob Zazueta and I’m honored to serve our local firefighters and firefighter families in our community as the Member Services Coordinator. It is in times of need that see the true strength in our community and the power of our family. Please consider supporting our Firefighter Matt McFadden as he continues to battle cancer and show everyone the value in Smiley Strong.