Firefighting is known to be a demanding occupation that requires commitment, perseverance, resilience and fitness. John B. Tripodi, or "Superman" as he was nicknamed by his friends, displayed those qualities in spades. John spent 16 years in the fire service working for the Central Fire Protection District of Santa Cruz County, but was medically retired after contracting two forms of cancer on the job. In the six years after his diagnosis, John didn't just fight for his own life but became extremely active in helping other firefighters diagnosed with cancer across the nation.