Former Statesboro firefighter shares cancer survival story to help other first responders

STATESBORO, Ga. (WTOC) - A former Statesboro firefighter is using his cancer survival story to advocate for other first responders facing similar battles.

Calvin Hitchcock was 42-years-old when he received a cancer diagnosis that turned his life upside down. After 12 months of physically exhausting treatment and stepping away from his career as a firefighter, Hitchcock sought a second opinion and learned he had been misdiagnosed.

“It felt like a gut punch,” Hitchcock said.

City of Hope in Atlanta correctly diagnosed Hitchcock with malignant lymphoma and began proper treatment.

“They went above and beyond because they actually brought in a team of roughly about 14 doctors and specialized in the cancer that I had, they brought 14 doctors to confirm or not confirm the process moving forward,” Hitchcock said.

At 46, Hitchcock is in remission. He said he is grateful for his team at City of Hope for hearing his concerns and working with him.

Dr. Leslie Popplewell, his oncologist at City of Hope Atlanta, said a second opinion should be standard in cancer treatment.

“I always tell patients, if I am your first stop please feel comfortable to seek a second opinion, I want you to feel comfortable with the treatment plan that we have put together,” Popplewell said.

According to the CDC, firefighters have a 9% greater chance of being diagnosed with cancer than the general public and a 14% greater risk of that diagnosis turning fatal.

Hitchcock had worked to bring cancer protocols to stations across the state before his diagnosis. Now, cancer advocacy has a new meaning for him.

Hitchcock travels throughout Georgia sharing his story with other first responders. He said the main issue he sees is reluctance to open up.

“The biggest thing I would like for folks to understand is it’s OK to talk to folks it’s OK to tell folks there’s a problem and that you’re facing a battle and ask for help. Don’t try to do it all yourself,” Hitchcock said.