# Kelowna and Vernon firefighters fundraiser for colleague

> Developing situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/kelowna-and-vernon-firefighters-fundraiser-for-colleague
> Updated: 2026-11-09T01:14:00.000Z. Sources: 36. Developments: 2.

Firefighters from the Kelowna and Vernon fire departments organized a head-shaving fundraiser on November 8 to support Stefon Marshall, a colleague diagnosed with Stage 4 colon cancer. The event, held at Kelowna Fire Station 1, aimed to alleviate the financial burden caused by Marshall’s extensive medical treatments and surgeries.

Approximately 60 department members participated in the event. A GoFundMe campaign associated with the cause raised over $43,000, surpassing initial expectations as organizers worked toward a $45,000 goal. The funds are intended to assist Marshall with medical expenses not covered by insurance and to provide financial relief for his family.

Organizer Torren Freeman noted that the diagnosis has prompted a culture change regarding medical testing within the department. The situation also drew attention to occupational risks, noting that Canadian government data indicates firefighters are approximately 9 percent more likely to be diagnosed with cancer and 14 percent more likely to die from the disease.

## Claims

- Stefon Marshall has been diagnosed with Stage 4 colon cancer. (reported by 6 sources)
- Approximately 60 firefighters participated in the head-shaving event. (reported by 6 sources)
- A GoFundMe campaign for Marshall has raised over $43,000. (reported by 6 sources)
- Organizers are aiming to raise $45,000. (reported by 6 sources)
- Firefighters are approximately 9 percent more likely to be diagnosed with cancer. (reported by 6 sources)
- Firefighters are approximately 14 percent more likely to die from cancer. (reported by 6 sources)

## Timeline

### 2026-11-09: Kelowna firefighters hold fundraiser for colleague with Stage 4 cancer

Firefighters from Kelowna and Vernon shaved their heads to raise funds for Stefon Marshall, a colleague battling Stage 4 colon cancer.

36 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/kelowna-firefighters-hold-fundraiser-for-colleague-with-colon-cancer

### 2026-11-04: Kelowna and Vernon firefighters to hold head-shaving fundraiser

Kelowna and Vernon firefighters will shave their heads on Nov. 8 to raise funds and awareness for Stefon Marshall, a colleague battling Stage 4 colon cancer.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/kelowna-and-vernon-firefighters-to-hold-head-shaving-fundraiser

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Cite as: Kelowna and Vernon firefighters fundraiser for colleague. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/kelowna-and-vernon-firefighters-fundraiser-for-colleague