Rally for Bright Fire Depts Fighting Irish - Kevin McKinney

Did you know firefighters face a significantly higher risk of cancer due to exposure to carcinogens in smoke and soot? Firefighters have a 9% higher risk of being diagnosed with cancer and a 14% higher risk of dying from cancer compared to the general population. Common types of cancer include respiratory, digestive, urinary system, and skin cancers. Despite these risks, there is a lack of resources for volunteer firefighters to prevent and battle cancer.

These statistics have now hit close to home as one of our own, Kevin McKinney, a 23-year veteran of the department has been diagnosed with Stage 4 Pancreatic Cancer. Affectionately known to many as McKinney, he is no stranger to the Bright Community. McKinney started his career with Bright Fire Department in 2001 as a firefighter / EMT and has served in various officer positions including Assistant EMS Chief, Captain, and Lieutenant.

McKinney is not only an active member of the Department and community but also a loving husband to his wife, Emily, and a devoted father to his three daughters, Erin, Kate, and Julie. To us, McKinney is a source of laughter during tough times, a helping hand in times of need, and a friend whose smile can brighten any day.

McKinney has spent countless hours away from his family, has missed holidays and school events to serve and give back to his community. It is time for us as a department and as a community to rally behind one who has sacrificed so much.

Bright Fire in conjunction with First Financial Bank has established an account that will benefit Kevin McKinney. Donations can be made directly into the Kevin McKinney Donation Fund account by stopping in at the Bright Branch. The Department has also established a GoFundMe page for the McKinney Family.

Please find it in your heart to help ease some of the financial stress that the family may be experiencing. It is estimated that cancer treatment can cost from $1,000 to $21,000 per month along with the ever-rising cost of groceries and fuel.

If you have any questions, please reach out to the Bright Fire Department at [email redacted].

Thank you for your continued support of the department and now the support of our very own Fighting Irish – Kevin McKinney.