Baltimore firefighter Steve Dorsey, 56, was diagnosed with stage 4 esophageal cancer on Valentine's Day. His initial symptom was difficulty swallowing, which he initially dismissed as benign. The cancer has spread to his lymph nodes and liver. Dorsey, a 21-year veteran, is undergoing chemotherapy and is supported by his colleagues and community through fundraisers. He urges firefighters to get tested, noting Baltimore City doesn't offer pre-cancer screenings for its firefighters, despite firefighters having a significantly higher risk of esophageal cancer.

Prepared by Olivia Bennett and reviewed by editorial team.