About the Firefighter Health Coalition
At The Firefighter Health Coalition (FHC), we are dedicated to standing with the brave men and women who put their lives on the line every day, and who now face an invisible enemy. Firefighters are significantly more likely to be diagnosed with cancer than the average American, and decades of exposure to PFAS chemicals in firefighting foam and turnout gear have left many battling life-threatening illnesses they were never warned about.
FHC, a 501(c)(4) non-profit, was created to ensure these heroes and their families are no longer left behind. While much of the national focus on PFAS compensation has centered on water contamination, firefighters, those most directly and heavily exposed, have not yet received justice. That must change.
By creating a Firefighter PFAS Injury Compensation Program and a dedicated PFAS Trust Fund, we aim to deliver expedited, fair compensation for firefighters who served our communities with courage and sacrifice.
We believe that firefighters should not have to fight alone for the care, recognition, and justice they deserve. Together, we can honor their service by securing the protections and support they need.
Our President
Dr. Andre’ McShan
As an Occupational Medicine Specialist, Dr. Andre’ McShan has spent his entire career working to ensure and restore the health of workers in America. He is an Assistant Professor at The University of Alabama at Birmingham. Dr. McShan is active with The American College of Occupational and Environmental Medicine. He is the past president of the College’s regional affiliate, the Mid-South Occupational and Environmental Medicine Association, and currently serves as the Speaker of the College’s national governing body, the House of Delegates. He has served on several committees and subgroups and is a recognized Fellow of the College. Dr. McShan also is a member of the Board of Advisors for Deep South Center for Occupational Health and Safety.
Our Co-Chairs
Stephen Cook
Stephen Cook brings more than two decades of experience to the fire service. He currently serves as a Captain with Birmingham Fire and Rescue Service in Birmingham, Alabama, and is the President of the Birmingham Firefighters Association, IAFF Local 117. In his union role, he also chairs the Legislative Committee for the Professional Firefighters of Alabama. Stephen attended Auburn University before beginning his career in the fire service. He plays an active role in preparing the next generation of firefighters as an adjunct instructor for the Alabama Fire College. Stephen has been married to his wife, Erin, for 17 years, and together they are proud parents of their son, Jackson.
Gary Tinney
Gary Tinney retired from the City of New Haven Fire Department after 27 years of service, where he earned recognition for his bravery and dedication to the fire service. Deeply committed to community engagement, he has served as President of the International Association of Black Professional Firefighters and of the New Haven Firebird Society. Mr. Tinney has also served on multiple boards, including the Red Cross, NAACP, and the New Haven Scholarship Fund. He played a key role in establishing the Law, Health, and Public Safety Academy at Hillhouse High School, helping hundreds of students pursue careers in public service. A lifelong advocate for justice, he continues to promote civic leadership and opportunity within his community.
What is PFAS?
PFAS, or per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, are a group of man-made chemicals used for decades in firefighting foam, turnout gear, and thousands of consumer products. These “forever chemicals” do not break down easily and can build up in the body over time.
Studies have linked PFAS exposure to serious health conditions — including cancers of the kidney, liver, bladder, thyroid, prostate, breast, and pancreas — as well as immune and hormonal disorders.
Firefighters face some of the highest exposure levels due to direct contact with PFAS-containing foam and gear during training and emergency response. Despite their service, most firefighters were never warned about the risks. The Firefighter’s Health Coalition is working to change that — by raising awareness, advancing legislation, and fighting for justice for those harmed by PFAS.