Joanne Aime

Wellspring Alberta's CEO is Stepping Up for Cancer Support

Last year, when I attended the Firefighter Stairclimb Challenge, I didn’t just see an event, I witnessed community at its strongest. I was moved by the firefighters who came from across Canada – and even internationally – to push themselves to their limits. I watched as volunteers, family members, and supporters lined the stairwell to cheer them on. It demonstrated something I deeply believe: when it comes to cancer, we are strongest when we face it together.

This year, I’ve decided I won’t just speak at a podium or cheer from the sidelines. I’m taking the stairs and choosing to Challenge the Chief.

As CEO of Wellspring Alberta, I spend my days working alongside an extraordinary team of staff, volunteers, and program leaders. But leadership isn’t only about strategy and direction; leadership also means showing up. Climbing is my way of stepping out from behind my desk and standing shoulder to shoulder with the firefighters who support our communities every day, and who deserve our support in return.

I feel a deep sense of gratitude for all they do. Firefighters face significant risks in the line of duty, including an increased risk of cancer. This climb is one way to honour and stand with them.

We are aiming higher this year because the need continues to grow. Cancer care is far more than a medical diagnosis – it’s a human experience: emotional, psychological, practical, relational, and so much more. Wellspring supports the often unseen parts of the cancer journey. The funds raised will directly support Wellspring’s programs and services, ensuring no one faces cancer alone – including firefighters, their families, caregivers, and every individual navigating the human side of cancer.

This cause is deeply personal to me. Cancer has, and continues to touch my life daily as I witness the courage and struggles it brings to the lives of friends, family members, and caregivers. I carry their stories with me as I take on this challenge. I climb for them.

Training will mean months of running and stair repeats in rain and snow, early mornings and long evenings. But I won’t train alone. My dog Sam is signed on to be my training partner in the weeks and months ahead. He simply shows up – consistent, loyal, and ready to go. There’s something fitting about that, because showing up is what this climb is all about: showing up for firefighters, for families facing cancer, and for one another.

On event day, when the stairs feel endless and fatigue sets in, I will think of the uphill road so many face after a cancer diagnosis. And I will remind myself: one step, then another. Keep going.

If this cause resonates with you, I invite you to be part of the climb, even if you’re not taking the stairs. I’ll take the stairs and together we will carry the mission forward — ensuring no one faces cancer alone.

Every contribution matters. Every dollar helps someone feel less alone.