Firefighters finishing Movember; raising money for cancer, mental health

ALBANY, N.Y. (NEWS10) -- Movember is coming to a close for some Albany firefighters. They are saying goodbye to their moustaches on Friday and inviting everyone to a party that raises money for a cause that hits very close to home -- cancer and mental health issues.

"Well, I've lost a friend to suicide, and I have friends dealing with on-the-job cancers," Ben Kurdt with the Albany Fire Department said.

"At the end of the day, most guys are not able to go back to work due to the side effects. The long- and short-term of the cancer treatments like radiation and chemotherapy," former Albany firefighter Kevin Murphy said.

Murphy was a member of the Albany Fire Department for over 20 years. He was diagnosed in 2019 with occupational throat cancer after doctors found three tumors.

During the month of November, firefighters were growing out their 'staches to help members like Murphy who are dealing with cancer and other health issues. And there's a reason "No Shave November" looks a bit different for them. A full beard would inhibit the seal on a mask when going into hazardous, smoky conditions.

"I actually grew it three years ago, and I've kept it since," Albany Firefighter Cancers and Disability Co-Director Cory Vanleuven said. "I would say I'm not a part-timer. I support the cause all year round."

The public can support the cause by going to McGeary's in Albany from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 29, for the annual Movember party. The night will include raffles, drinks, and a mustache competition judged by NEWS10's Giuliana Bruno.

The money raised goes to the Albany Firefighter Cancers and Disability Foundation, a non-profit that eases the financial burden of medical costs and provides help to firefighters battling health issues.