BOSTON– More than 150 first responders joined Service Credit Union at West End Johnnie’s in Boston to raise awareness and support for early cancer detection and heart disease screenings for first responders.
The event included complimentary food and a Meet and Greet with Boston defender Charlie McAvoy.
The event was part of Service Credit Union’s ongoing 73 Reasons campaign with McAvoy, which highlights the many reasons we must give back to first responders, who do so much for us, the credit union said.
“Firefighters have a 14% higher risk of dying from cancer compared to the general public, while police officers are 25 times more likely to die of a heart attack than be killed by the violent action of a suspect,” SCU said. “Nearly half of firefighters will be diagnosed with a form of cancer in their lifetime.”
Service Credit Union has committed to donating over $200,000 to provide these heroes with life-saving heart disease and cancer screenings, which are frequently not covered by insurance.
Through Service Credit Union’s sponsorship, firefighters at the West End Johnnie’s event were able to receive a free cancer screening from cutting edge healthcare company GRAIL, which provides a first-of-its kind multi-cancer early detection test. Police were able to take home free preventative heart screening tests.
Attendees were joined at the event by McAvoy, who signed autographs and mingled with the crowd, expressing his gratitude to New England’s first responders.
“Service CU is incredibly proud of the impact the 73 Reasons campaign has made so far,” Jaime Yates, AVP of community development at Service CU, said in a statement. “First responders put their lives on the line to protect our communities every day, so it’s important that we protect their health and safety as well.”
Service Credit Union will continue to host screening events to support first responders.”