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Widow of firefighter who died in 2018 urges first responders to contact LEFT 2 ombudsman for claims help
Summary
A family member of a deceased firefighter urged first responders with cancer or cardiac conditions to seek guidance from the LEFT 2 ombudsman's office, saying presumptive status is not the only way to file an LNI claim and providing an email for assistance.
Kalina, whose husband, firefighter paramedic Eric Schaus, died in 2018 of an occupational disease, urged first responders and their families to seek help from the LEFT 2 ombudsman's office for questions about presumptive illnesses and filing LNI claims.
"Firefighters have a disproportionately higher rate for cancers and heart disease," Kalina said, arguing those conditions are a significant risk for first responders. "These diseases are referred to as presumptive diseases for first responders," she added.
Kalina told listeners that having a presumptive diagnosis is not the only path to pursue a claim: "If you or your loved one has been diagnosed with a cancer or cardiac issue, current presumptive qualification is not the only criteria for filing an LNI claim." She said she wants part of her late husband's legacy to be making the filing process easier for others and emphasized the need to know where to find accurate information.
She provided a point of contact for assistance: "Please contact the LEFT 2 Ombudsman's office. Share your story, ask questions, and most importantly, get accurate information," and read the email address ombuds@left.law.gov.
The comment served as an appeal for outreach and information rather than a request for immediate formal action; Kalina encouraged anyone affected to reach out to the ombudsman for guidance on next steps.
