New tradition honors Providence firefighter who died of brain cancer

SMITHFIELD, R.I. (WLNE) — The Rhode Island Brain and Spine Tumor Foundation got a new tradition started Sunday, honoring late Providence firefighter Jim Varin.

Runners participated in a half marathon and 5K — ‘The Blazin’ Battle Against Brain Cancer.’

Varin was a battalion chief, and served on the Providence Fire Department for 31 years.

Varin died in 2023 after fighting glioblastoma, an aggressive form of brain cancer.

An image of a t-shirt promoting ‘The Blazin’ Battle Against Brain Cancer’ (Courtesy RIBSTF).

Before his passing, Varin spoke to his family about wanting to help others impacted by glioblastoma.

Today’s event was the realization of that goal — all money raised by participants in the race went to the Rhode Island Brain and Spine Tumor Foundation.

Runners participate in ‘The Blazin’ Battle Against Brain Cancer’ to honor Jim Varin and support The Rhode Island Brain and Spine Tumor Foundation (Courtesy RIBSTF).

The foundation provides support to people diagnosed with brain or spine tumors and their families.

That includes financial assistance for things like co-pays for medical visits, prescriptions, diagnostic testing, or transportation.