From Firefighter to Father: My Journey of Resilience and Recovery

Who I Am: A Lifelong Adventurer 

I’m Joshua Lemanski—a firefighter, volunteer, store manager, farmer, and most importantly, a father of three. My life has always been filled with adventure, from four-wheel driving and camping in the wild to backpacking off the beaten path. I’ve had many careers, from retail and hospitality to construction and entertainment, but it wasn’t until I joined the Fire Brigade that I found my true calling. The mix of structure, adrenaline-pumping action, and the chance to help people is exactly what my ADHD brain needed to stay focused and engaged. 

My Father's Legacy: Helping Others in Need 

Helping others was ingrained in me by my father, who never sought recognition for his acts of kindness. He subtly taught me that helping those genuinely in need is a virtue unto itself, and that’s what led me to a career in emergency services. I became a Remote Area Firefighter, which allowed me to assist in places like Tasmania’s World Heritage national parks and support flood victims in Lismore. The work was challenging, but it was also rewarding to know that I was making a difference. 

Family and Farming: Finding Peace After Loss 

In 2017, a storm destroyed our home, but we were offered a second house on the farm I manage in the Upper Hunter, owned by James and Maxine, a wonderful couple who have been incredibly supportive. Living on the farm has allowed my family to experience peace, a slower pace of life, and a chance to bond with each other and our small but supportive community. It’s also provided my children with opportunities to learn the value of hard work, the joy of nature walks, and the courage to step outside their comfort zones. 

A Series of Heartbreaks: 2021 to Now 

The past three years have been incredibly challenging. In 2021, my father was diagnosed with aggressive cancer. I took time off from my three part-time jobs to care for him, relying on our savings. He passed away that October. My best friend's wife was also diagnosed with cancer that same year, and tragically, she passed away in late 2024. 

After my father’s passing, I returned to work as the sole breadwinner. My partner needed to stay home to care for our autistic son and our newborn daughter, who was born in 2022. Shortly after her birth, my grandfather also passed away. Each loss felt heavier than the last, but it was my father’s teachings of strength, dignity, and family unity that kept us together during these trying times. 

The Dream of Sailing: So Close, Yet So Far 

My ultimate dream has always been to sail around the world. Earlier this year, we were closer than ever to taking the first step: a family sailing trip along the east coast of Australia. I had saved enough, booked holiday leave, and even found the perfect boat. But life had other plans. 

While preparing to rejoin the fire brigades, I discovered I had kidney cancer. The initial fear was overwhelming, especially given how rapidly my father’s cancer progressed. For a week, I was convinced that I might only have months to live, grappling with how to support my family if I were gone. When I learned that the cancer was contained to my kidney and could be surgically removed, I felt immense relief. Suddenly, a 90% survival rate felt like a blessing. 

The Road to Recovery: Rebuilding for My Family 

My surgery is scheduled for 24-10-24. While I am grateful to have the chance to remove the cancer early, it has come at a heavy cost. We had to deplete our emergency fund and put our house on the market. I will need 6-8 weeks to recover, with no income after my four weeks of leave. 

To motivate myself to heal quickly, I’ve set a bold goal: to complete The Great North Walk as a thru-hike by mid-next year. I know it will be a challenge, but it will push me to regain my strength and be fit enough to enjoy more adventures with my family. 

Why I Need Your Help 

I’ve always believed in standing on my own two feet, and I’ve always been frugal, even when times were tough. But my family is in a vulnerable position now, and I’m asking for help, which is incredibly difficult for me. Any support—whether financial or simply sharing my story—will help us get through this period. 

If you’d like to support my recovery and help my family during this time, please consider donating to my GoFundMe: gofund.me/8525a990. 

Join Me on This Journey 

I plan to use this blog to document my recovery, from the initial surgery to completing The Great North Walk. I hope to inspire others to keep moving forward, no matter the setbacks, and to remind myself of the strength my father instilled in me. 

Thank you for taking the time to read my story, and for any support you can offer. 

With gratitude, 

Joshua Lemanski