Buffalo Grove firefighter lauded for work on cancer awareness
Buffalo Grove firefighter Steve Rusin has been known throughout the community for his efforts on behalf of cancer awareness.
As was one of the drivers of the Pink Heals truck that toured America this year, Rusin steered the pink vehicle inscribed with the signatures of families affected by cancer across Florida.
He spurred the local Pink Heals effort, forming Pink Heals of Northern Illinois and selling pink T-shirts in the village. He also helped obtain and outfit the Pink Heals fire engine for Northern Illinois, known as Jessica.
And now, for these efforts as well as his skills and commitment as a firefighter, Rusin also is known as Buffalo Grove's Firefighter of the Year.
Rusin was recognized by the village board this week during a ceremony also attended by his wife, Jennifer, and their children Joshua, 7, and Hannah, 10.
“He has volunteered countless hours displaying it and raising awareness,” Fire Chief Terry Vavra said, adding that Rusin also serves as a member of the department's honor guard and designed and oversaw the construction of a memorial patio for retired members of Station 26.
Rusin, who receives a trophy and $250 donation to the charity of his choice, gave credit for his efforts' success to the fire department.
“I hope everybody looks on it as a department thing, not just my pet project,” he said of Pink Heals.
A 23-year veteran of the force, Rusin grew up in the area, attended Stevenson High School and volunteered with the Long Grove Fire Protection District. But it was his dream to be a firefighter in Buffalo Grove.
“Every day it's the greatest job in the world,” he said. “I don't have to sit behind a desk.”
Buffalo Grove Batallion Chief Wendy Durkin, who helped to train Rusin when they worked together in Long Grove, lauded her colleague for his compassion for people, his team spirit and his love for the job.
“I can't think of a more deserving guy for firefighter of the year,” she said.
Among Rusin's career highlights are twice assisting in the delivery of a baby. The family of one of those babies, now 15 years old, greets him every year at Buffalo Grove Days.
The Pink Heals initiative began five years ago, started by an Arizona firefighter. Rusin and his wife started a local chapter. The truck they acquired was purchased from the Woodstock Fire Department and outfitted with donations and a lot of help from firefighters and the community.
“It's all a big community effort,” Rusin said.
During his recent trip through Florida, Rusin said he visited hospitals, schools and shopping malls as he spread the word not just about breast cancer, but all cancers.