Firefighter48 Foundation: Dedicated to Firefighters With Cancer, Their Families & Their Communities

The Firefighter48 Foundation exists to build an emotional bridge between the public and the devastating effect of cancer in the fire service, moving beyond statistics to tell the real, human stories of those who are living with the disease.

Although the foundation was co-founded by Phoenix Fire Department Division Chief Ben Lindquist and award‑winning filmmaker Patrick Gramm, its strength comes from something far greater: a growing network of firefighters, fire families and passionate supporters who play a vital role in making the project possible.

Firefighter48 has become more than a foundation. It’s a family that’s united by purpose, fueled by collective effort and driven by the belief that these stories must be told.

‘The Last Firefighters’

At the heart of the effort are films, such as “When All the Color Is Gone” and “The Last Firefighters.” These films don’t rely solely on data or expert commentary. They follow the raw, personal journeys of Arizona firefighters who are battling occupational cancer and their families. Their stories are deeply personal, sometimes heartbreaking and undeniably real. Among them is Tempe, AZ, Fire Medical Rescue Department (TFMRD) Capt. Scott Leatham, who died on Dec. 19, 2024, at the age of 39, after a fierce battle with NUT carcinoma, which is a rare cancer and, in his case, linked to his firefighting service.

Leatham’s devotion to public service began in emergency medicine in 2007. He joined the TFMRD in 2013. He earned his paramedic certification in 2015, became a technical rescue technician, joined the SWAT medical support team and dive unit, and was promoted to captain/paramedic in February 2022.

Known for his positivity—for example, leading late‑night basketball games with his crew—and his compassion, Leatham was first on scene at the 2020 Tempe Town Lake train derailment.

Tribute and rallying cry

In July 2024, after months of headaches, Leatham sought treatment. Ultimately, he was diagnosed with NUT carcinoma behind his eye. He endured intensive treatment and multiple hospital stays, yet found strength in moments, such as attending his son’s first high school football game at Perry High School in September 2024. 

Leatham’s fellow firefighters never left his side, rallying to be with him and his family at the hospital, at his home and at his funeral, where hundreds paid tribute to a leader, friend and father.

Leatham is survived by his wife of 17 years, Ashley—his high school sweetheart and constant support—and their children Kaden (15) and Kali (12).

Loved ones recall his laughter, work ethic and a never-failing positive attitude.  

In the aftermath of his death, Leatham’s legacy has taken on new life. Ashley Leatham joined the board of directors of Firefighter48, channeling her grief into advocacy and helping to steer the organization’s mission forward. Her and her husband’s story stands as both a tribute and a rallying cry: Although Scott Leatham’s loss is deeply painful, it underscores why Firefighter48 exists—so that no firefighter, no family and no community will bear this burden alone.

Need for sweeping change

Firefighter48 content also features the voices of medical professionals, researchers and fire service leaders, all working to confront a crisis that continues to grow. Their perspectives add context to the lived experiences of the firefighters themselves, illustrating both the human toll and the need for sweeping change in how we protect those who serve.

The inspiration for “When All the Color Is  Gone” and “The Last Firefighters” began with “Dying to Save You,” a short film that was released in 2024 for the United Phoenix Firefighters Local 493’s Firefighters Unite Against Cancer event. The 25‑minute film struck a powerful chord and sparked a wave of momentum from across the fire service and beyond.

However, these new films aren’t sequels nor extended versions of “Dying to Save You.” They are entirely new projects, with new stories, broader reach and a renewed sense of urgency. (The films can be viewed at the Firefighter48 YouTube channel.)

For the next generation

Beyond the films, Firefighter48 Foundation launched a powerful advocacy campaign through social media that’s focused on “Advocacy, Awareness and Action.” Through storytelling and video content, the foundation gives a voice to firefighters who often are too sick or are too humble to speak for themselves.

A cornerstone of this effort is #NeverForgetFriday, which honors the lives of firefighters lost to cancer, to ensure that their legacies not only are remembered but to drive the change that’s needed to protect others.

Support the mission

None of this would be possible without the countless individuals who have contributed by sharing their stories, opening their home to cameras, advocating within their department, donating funds or simply showing up. These films—and the mission of Firefighter48—were built by many.

Firefighter48 is working to complete “The Last Firefighters” by the end of 2025. The foundation is in need of significant funding from donors. These funds cover everything from filming and editing, to equipment, music licensing and post‑production. Donors will be recognized in the film, and major contributors may be invited to join the foundation’s advisory board to help to guide its long‑term mission.

For families or departments who want to participate in #NeverForgetFriday or for anyone who wishes to support the work of the Foundation, visit firefighter48.com or reach out directly at [email protected].