Women's History Month 2024 - Candace Grimes

Happy Women’s History Month!

My name is Candace Grimes and I have been a Firefighter Paramedic for the City of Lake Oswego for 2 years. As a firefighter, I work a 24-hour shift with a crew of three on “A” shift. We respond to a range of calls that include but are not limited to fire and medical emergencies. In between calls I love to train with my crew/department and improve on my craft any chance I get. When off shift, I enjoy teaching and learning. I teach CPR and recently became a “Stop the Bleed” instructor. Not only am I a firefighter but I am also a firefighter’s wife. My husband and I have two exceptional sons who keep us very busy in sports and outdoor activities. To me, Women’s History Month is a time to celebrate! I am privileged to honor the women who came before me, to celebrate the women next to me and to take note of the work that still needs to be done.

I grew up in a house full of women, celebrating and supporting each other was just a way of life. I remember every Wednesday night my Mom, Grandma, Aunts and a few of their girlfriends would come to dinner at our house. Women of all walks of life; doctors, travelers, hairstylists, models, stay at home Moms, would sit at our dining room table and talk for hours. I reminisce sitting there in awe watching these women communicate, problem solve and achieve any task they set their minds to. Each Wednesday, I was inspired by their stories, their resiliency and tenacity, and I grew up knowing that I could achieve anything I worked hard for.

When I entered the fire service my inspiration from hard working, resilient, brave women only grew. I want to take a moment to celebrate the women who have motivated me along the way.

Molly Williams was the first documented female firefighter in 1818. She was brought to Ocean Engine Company #11 as a cook, but when the influenza pandemic broke out she was the only one who wasn’t ill. A fire started and by herself she manually pulled the pumper to the scene by foot to deliver water. That day, Molly Williams became a pioneer for women in this industry and she continues to serve as an inspiration for many today.

Lisa Knight founded the Portland Metro Fire Camp 15 years ago. She saw the need for more education, mentorship and exposure to the fire service for young women. Portland Metro Fire Camp gives young women ages 16-22 the opportunity participate in fire skills such as; search and rescue, hose handling, chainsaws, forcible entry, vehicle extrication, aerial ladder climbing and interview prep. This camp has empowered and encouraged many young women to expand their horizon and achieve careers they may not have thought possible.

Cancer is one of the leading causes of death in the fire service and until 2022 only male reproductive cancers were protected. Dacia Grayber a firefighter and Oregon State Legislature saw the gap in protection and diagnosis for female firefighters and went to work. She sponsored a bill and fought for bladder and female reproductive cancers. Her ability to take inventory of what needs to improve to protect our diverse and equitable work force will save lives and protect women in this career.

Lastly to the women who stand next to me, Driver Engineer Andrea Cadotte and Firefighter Alexa Fery. Together we make up 7.5% of the fire department here in the city. These women embody the importance of female representation in this industry and they rise to the occasion every day. They both are irreplaceable role models and they have helped me grow professionally and personally in so many ways. They regularly reinforce my childhood belief that I can achieve anything I work hard for.

In closing, let’s take time to celebrate Women’s History Month. Admire the achievements, value your network of women and account for the work that needs be done to make a better future. Many women in history, including the ones listed above saw a need for change and acted. They had a dream to pursue and they did not let barriers along the way stop them from achieving their goals. Take time to identify who sits at your “Wednesday night table”. Find the power of your voice, support the voices of your community and inspire the little girl looking up to you.

Photo:  Candace enjoying family time.