Local Engineer/Paramedic Battling Colon Cancer Needs Community SupportSan Mateo, CA A dedicated Engineer/Paramedic with CAL FIRE who has spent years risking his life to protect others is now fighting a personal battle against colon cancer, a presumptive risk linked to the hazardous exposure with firefighting. To support him and his family during this challenging time, a GoFundMe page has been launched.Carcinogens surround a firefighter’s work environment from the items that burn in fires to the fire gear that protects them. Firefighters are at an elevated risk of developing cancer due to prolonged exposure to toxic chemicals, smoke, and carcinogens during their service. According to the Firefighter Cancer Support Network “Researchers have found that more than two-thirds of firefighters–68 percent–develop cancer, compared to about 22 percent for the general population”In May 2014 Charlie Satter became a Fire Fighter I at unit headquarters in San Diego, CA. He then transferred to Riverside and worked at unit headquarters as an FF I before being promoted to Firefighter II. Charlie then promoted to Fire Apparatus Engineer in Sonoma-Lake-Napa Unit in St. Helena. After separating from the Cal Fire (2021) to attend Paramedic school at TMCC in Reno, NV with a paramedic internship in Las Vegas, NV. Engineer Satter started with the San Mateo/Santa Cruz Unit in August of 2024 and was diagnosed with Colon Cancer in January of 2025. This Engineer/Paramedic has dedicated his career to saving lives and ensuring public safety. Now, he needs our help. To support him and his family during this challenging time, a GoFundMe page has been launched.Funds raised will assist with medical expenses, travel for specialized treatments, and provide financial stability for his family as they navigate this difficult journey. Every contribution helps alleviate the financial burden and allows him to focus on recovery. Let’s come together to support one of our own who has always been there for us.