Lieutenant Gabriel Thibert, a Montreal firefighter, has been diagnosed with stage 4 glioblastoma, a rare and aggressive form of brain cancer. Thibert was stunned by the news after experiencing a seizure in January. His colleagues, including his friend Alexandre Kheir, were also shocked by the diagnosis and are working to raise funds for research and a special treatment called ‘Tumours Treating Fields’ (TTF) that could potentially extend Thibert’s life. This treatment involves exposing tumour cells to alternating electric fields to inhibit their growth and spread. However, the cost of the treatment is prohibitive for Thibert, who notes that it is $27,000 per month, making it difficult for him to afford as a firefighter.
Dr. Rhian Touyzgl, executive director and chief scientific officer at the Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, explains that glioblastoma is predominantly found in men and typically grows quickly. She notes that the prognosis for this type of cancer is usually only 12 to 18 months after diagnosis. While the exact cause of glioblastoma is unknown, Thibert’s colleagues are raising awareness for brain cancer as well as the increased risk of cancer for firefighters due to their occupation. Statistics from the federal government show that firefighters are 14% more likely than the general public to die from cancer, with 86% of occupational fatality claims for Canadian firefighters being linked to cancer from 2005 to 2016.
Thibert’s colleagues are campaigning to raise money for research at the RI-MUHC and for the costly Tumours Treating Fields treatment to help extend his life. Kheir emphasizes the importance of raising awareness for brain cancer and the risks faced by firefighters in their line of work. Despite the challenges, Kheir notes that progress is being made, with efforts from the union and Montreal Fire Department to address the issue of occupational cancer among firefighters. Thibert is preparing to start chemotherapy in the coming weeks as part of his treatment plan for glioblastoma.
Overall, Thibert’s diagnosis of glioblastoma has brought attention to the risks faced by firefighters in terms of occupational cancer and the need for further research and funding to support individuals like Thibert. The high cost of treatment for brain cancer presents a significant challenge for patients like Thibert, highlighting the importance of raising awareness and support for those affected by this devastating disease. As Thibert continues his battle against glioblastoma, his colleagues and supporters are working tirelessly to provide him with the necessary resources and care to fight this aggressive form of cancer.
