The Decon Project
In Episode 83 of the Get ’N Your Business Podcast, host Alison Shores sits down with Pat Long—paramedic, firefighter, and founder of The Decon Project—for a powerful conversation about faith, health, brotherhood, and a mission born from personal crisis.
Pat shares his journey to Camden County, his calling into the fire service, and how a small, painless “bump” led to a shocking cancer diagnosis—despite being in peak physical condition. What initially appeared to be a slow-growing lymphoma was later revealed as an aggressive form of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, with more than 100 tumors throughout his body.
Throughout treatment, Pat leaned heavily on his faith, family, and the unwavering support of the firefighter brotherhood—locally and nationwide. That experience opened his eyes to the hidden health risks firefighters face every day and ultimately led him to launch The Decon Project, a nonprofit dedicated to protecting firefighters through prevention, decontamination, and early detection.
The episode highlights how modern fires expose firefighters to far more toxic materials than in the past, often through repeated small exposures that accumulate over time. Pat explains how cancer and cardiac issues are the two leading causes of death in the fire service—and why proactive health measures must become the standard, not the exception.
🔑 Key Highlights & Takeaways
Peak health doesn’t equal immunity: Pat was doing “everything right” and still developed aggressive cancer.
Early symptoms are often subtle: Minor fatigue, back pain, or painless lumps are easy to ignore.
Firefighters face increased cancer risk: Repeated exposure to carcinogens on gear, skin, equipment, and in stations adds up over time.
Modern fires are more toxic: Today’s building materials and household items burn far more dangerously than decades ago.
Brotherhood matters: Fire departments across communities rallied around Pat during treatment.
Prevention saves lives and money: Early detection can reduce suffering and dramatically lower treatment costs.
The Decon Project’s Mission:
Saunas for detox support
Activated charcoal hygiene products
On-scene decon wipes
Hydration and sleep support for shift work
Ultrasound and heart screenings for early detection
Goal: Establish a new health and safety standard for fire departments—starting locally and expanding statewide.
Call to action: Get regular checkups, don’t ignore warning signs, and support firefighter health initiatives.
This episode is a powerful reminder that the people who protect our communities often face unseen battles—and that awareness, prevention, and early action can truly save lives.
🔗 Get Involved
🌐 Learn more or donate: https://thedeconproject.com
📱 Follow on social media for updates and impact stories Instagram
📺 Watch Firefighter Devotionals – The Daily Decon on YouTube
Email: Patrick@thedeconproject.com
Phone: 770-862-1677
