Sister in a Brotherhood

Inspiration from a Life as a First Responder



A groundbreaking female firefighter, Cindie Schooner-Ball lived for the thrill of riding backwards on a fire truck, code 3 with lights flashing, sirens wailing, heading toward an ominous cloud of black smoke. In this captivating memoir, she vividly describes these high-adrenaline experiences and the stunned look on people's faces when she climbed off the truck and they realized she was a woman.



Hired in 1987 by a large urban Fire-Rescue Department in South Florida, Cindie rose through the ranks as a firefighter, driver-engineer, paramedic, and lieutenant. She retired as a captain after 28 years on the force. Throughout her career, she was often asked how she managed to thrive in this male-dominated profession, so she decided to write Sister in a Brotherhood to share her story of perseverance, grit, and commanding respect.



Through the stirring tales Cindie shares about grueling training, hard-as-nails leaders, and calls that ran the gamut from traumatic to humorous, you'll understand why firefighting is a calling and passion. She shares memorable moments working and living with people who are dedicated to helping others in crisis. Anyone who is fascinated by the work of first responders or who wants to serve will be enthralled, informed, and inspired by Sister in a Brotherhood.