Seattle Stairclimb is one of the most physically demanding firefighter fundraisers in the country
Nineteen firefighters from the Sacramento Metropolitan Fire District took their commitment to service to new heights over the weekend, scaling 69 stories of Seattle’s Columbia Center in full gear—all for a cause that extends beyond the fire line.
With each step, the team raised funds to support The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society’s mission to fight blood cancer and improve the quality of life for patients and their families. The challenge, known as the annual Seattle Stairclimb, is one of the most physically demanding firefighter fundraisers in the country, requiring participants to ascend 1,356 steps while breathing on compressed air.
Metro Fire didn’t just conquer the climb—they made a powerful impact, raising more than $70,000 for the cause and securing their spot as the event’s top donor. But their efforts weren’t just about fundraising; they were also deeply personal. The team dedicated their climb in memory of several fallen firefighters from the district, honoring their legacy with every step.
Among those remembered locally were Firefighter Mike Teglia of the Florin Fire District (1990), Firefighter Rich Anspach of the Sacramento County Fire Protection District (1993), and Captain Randy Gross of Sacramento Metropolitan Fire District (2024). Holding a memorial banner at the climb, the firefighters paid tribute to their late colleagues, ensuring their service and sacrifice will never be forgotten.
For those battling cancer, every dollar raised brings hope. Following the time and efforts of Metro Fire to participate, that hope is now even stronger.
