Kentville Volunteer Firefighter, Joel Neily, courageously battled a firefighting-related cancer, before passing away in May of 2026, at the age of 44.
In June of 2025 I had the privilege to interview Joel, as he began his extensive battle against cancer.
“Something that I loved doing and something that I volunteered to do, is what’s killing me.”
Each and everyday firefighters are exposed to carcinogens resulting in a much greater risk of contracting firefighting forms of cancer.
Wearing personal protective equipment and practicing consist decontamination procedures are all ways to protect yourself and your fellow members.
During Joel’s battle he was pushing hard for awareness, the importance of wearing PPE, bagging gear, washing gear and all the necessary measures in order to prevent another firefighter from contracting a firefighting-related cancer, this message needs to continue.
Many firefighters and fire departments across Nova Scotia heard his message, which resulted in departments buying equipment to protect their members, to reduce the risks firefighters face.
Myself like many others in the fire service crossed paths with Neily, whether it was a weekend on the four-wheeler, playing hockey in the rink or fighting a fire together, we all felt and heard his voice.
The The FireSafe Foundation was started a short time after his diagnosis, to help bring awareness to the risks that firefighters face while supporting their battles.
By donating to the Fire Safe Foundation you’re supporting Joel’s push to do better. The link to the organization is attached below ⤵️
https://www.firesafefoundation.org/donate
Our hearts remain with the Kentville Fire Department, many friends and immediate family.
Adrian J.
