Matthew “Mat” Troy, a Quincy, Massachusetts resident, died on Wednesday. He was 32. He fought cancer bravely. His death has now inspired calls for more awareness of occupational cancer among firefighters.
Who Was Mat Troy?
Mat Troy remained optimistic despite his cancer diagnosis. In September 2022, he was hospitalized. “He was quick, clever, and funny,” said Shawn Clancy, a firefighter and his childhood friend. They used to play hockey as kids. Clancy organized a charity hockey event. It raised $40,000 to support Mat.
Mat embodied the true Boston firefighter spirit. He was courageous and dedicated. His strength during his cancer battle was exceptional. The Boston Fire Cancer Foundation praised him as caring and protective.
Raising Awareness About Occupational Cancer
Mat’s death has highlighted the pressing issue of occupational cancer among firefighters. Sean Ranahan, diagnosed with Stage 4 Hodgkin’s lymphoma at 30, founded the Boston Fire Cancer Foundation to support firefighters like Mat. “Occupational cancer is affecting a younger and younger generation of firefighters on a daily basis,” Ranahan said. Data indicates that cancer accounts for two-thirds of on-duty firefighter deaths.
Ranahan and the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute have partnered to ensure firefighters have access to necessary resources. In Massachusetts, firefighters with cancer receive reimbursement for medical expenses.
Community Support and Advocacy
The community rallied around Mat, organizing many fundraisers to support him. Sadly, Mat lost his battle with cancer on June 12. Meanwhile, Jason Burns, a firefighter and district VP, advocated for removing harmful PFAS chemicals from gear. These chemicals, causing cancer, were featured in “BURNED: Protecting Our Protectors.”
Conclusion
Matthew “Mat” Troy’s death deeply affected his community and the firefighting field. He was known for his dedication and kindness. His passing highlights the need to address cancer in firefighters. Now, the community is working to both remember him and improve firefighter safety and health.