Community support helped Steve through his toughest climb, yet.
- 9 hours ago
- 2 min read
What began as persistent back pain turned into a life-changing diagnosis for professional firefighter, Steve Foster.
For 26 years, Steve Foster dedicated his life to protecting others as a firefighter with Sault Ste. Marie Fire Services. Outside of work, Steve spent his time chasing adventure through travel and the outdoors. He even conquered 25,000 feet of Mount Everest!
Like many active people, Steve was no stranger to aches and injuries. When severe back pain developed in spring 2025, he didn’t think much of it. He took medication to ease the pain and continued on with daily life. After weeks of unbearable pain, he knew something was wrong.
As a firefighter, Steve was often exposed to hazardous chemicals. Because of the risks that come with the job, he made sure to get regular prostate cancer screening tests. Luckily, his regular checkup was coming up.
That routine screening brought life-changing news: at only 56-years-old, Steve was diagnosed with stage 4 prostate cancer. Steve’s care team at Sault Area Hospital (SAH) moved fast. Tests, scans, and biopsies helped doctors decide on the best treatment plan.
Equipment funded by donors supported every stage of Steve’s care. Laboratory equipment helped test biopsy samples. Imaging equipment gave his care team a clearer picture. New treatment chairs in the chemotherapy suite provided comfort during long appointments.
Because of donor support, Steve received 100% of his care in the community that he spent his career protecting.
Throughout it all, Steve says the people who cared for him made the biggest difference. “Every department made me feel like I was their only patient,” he said. “The doctors, nurses, pharmacists... everyone was incredible.”
Eight months after his diagnosis, new scans showed significant improvement. On his
birthday, Steve rang the bell to celebrate the end of chemotherapy in January.
Today, Steve continues to manage his cancer with medication and regular checkups. While he will remain a patient for life, he focuses on what matters most: staying active, celebrating milestones, and encouraging others to stay healthy.
The generosity of donors helps over 1,500 patients like Steve access lifesaving cancer care, every year, at SAH.
"Knowing the equipment used to help heal my cancer was donated by people who want to help others, to help me, means everything. I'm so fortunate that the people and equipment were here." - Steve Foster
Emergency responders face unique health risks, making regular screening a priority. Steve encourages others to stay on top of routine checkups and recommended testing. Do not ignore changes in your health. |
Donations help us deliver outstanding care.
