About Us
911 Warrior Foundation is an independent 501(c)(3) non-profit public charity organization.
John Tuiasosopo
A Firefighter’s Journey to Health & Giving Back
John Tuiasosopo dedicated his life to protecting others as a firefighter. But his career, while fulfilling, exposed him to countless cancer-causing chemicals, a hidden risk that weighed on his mind. Though he felt healthy and exhibited no symptoms, John decided to take a proactive step for his health—a full-body MRI scan.
On June 16, 2024, John underwent the MRI. This type of screening wasn’t covered by his insurance, but for John, peace of mind outweighed the financial cost. He believed the scan would serve as reassurance that his body was as strong as he felt.
Just four days later, John received unexpected news: the MRI had detected a 5.2 cm mass on his left kidney. He was stunned. Despite years of feeling invincible in his demanding job, this silent threat was growing inside him without any warning signs.
The diagnosis set a flurry of events into motion. After consultations with specialists, the decision was made to remove the affected kidney. On July 8, 2024, John underwent successful surgery. His recovery was swift, and he felt immense gratitude that the cancer had been caught early.
Rather than dwell on what could have been, John saw this experience as a wake-up call—not just for himself but for all first responders. He knew many of his colleagues, both active and retired, faced similar risks but might not have the resources or knowledge to act preventively. Inspired, John channeled his gratitude and newfound purpose into action. He founded a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting retired first responders in navigating physical and mental health challenges. The nonprofit offers resources for preventive health screenings, education on occupational risks, mental health support, and access to medical care that insurance often overlooks.
John’s journey from a firefighter to a cancer survivor and advocate serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of vigilance and community. Through his nonprofit, John is determined to ensure that those who serve and protect others receive the care and support they deserve.
Our Vision
“A future where every retired first responder lives a life of health, dignity, and purpose, supported by a community that honors their service and ensures access to the care and resources they need to thrive.”
Our Core Values
FOUNDER'S MESSAGE
As a firefighter, I dedicated my life to protecting others, but my own journey taught me the importance of prioritizing health and well-being. The challenges I faced after discovering my kidney cancer inspired me to create the 911 Warrior Foundation. Our mission is to ensure that retired first responders, who have given so much to their communities, receive the care, support, and resources they deserve. Together, we can honor their service by fostering resilience, advocating for their needs, and building a community that stands by our everyday heroes. Thank you for joining us in this vital mission.
— John Tuiasosopo, Founder
