218. Fighting Cancer in Firefighters | Turning Tragedy & Loss Into a Life-Saving Mission. Caylie Valenta

2025-10-20

In Episode 218 of the Transition Drill Podcast, when Caylie Valenta, at the time studying to become a Physician’s Assistant, met probationer firefighter Andy Valenta, their story began like something out of a movie. A chance encounter at a bar on a California night that turned into a bond built on love and sacrifice. Together, they forged a life rooted in purpose and family, raising two daughters and chasing the ordinary joys of marriage in between long shifts. But when Andy, a healthy and dedicated firefighter, was diagnosed with metastatic melanoma, their world changed overnight. What followed was a journey of courage, loss, and rebirth that transformed personal tragedy into a mission to protect others. Through the creation of the Andy Valenta Melanoma Foundation, Caylie turned grief into purpose, shining a light on the hidden cancer dangers facing firefighters and proving that even in loss, love can build something lasting; something that saves lives.

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