KAMIAH, Idaho — The parents of U.S. Forest Service firefighter Justin Shaw, who was struck by a tree while fighting a wildfire in the Nez Perce National Forest, have expressed their gratitude for the community’s support during his recovery.
Shaw was injured when a tree fell on him while working on a wildfire in the Salmon River Ranger District. He was initially transported by Life Flight to St. Joseph’s Regional Medical Center in Lewiston, Idaho, and later transferred to Sacred Heart Medical Center in Spokane, Washington.
This was the statement that his family sent out:
“It has been a month since Justin was involved in a tree strike to his head. He has had an incredible journey already. The family would like to thank everyone who has helped us with this journey.
Starting with his crew and fellow firefighters for remaining calm and getting him to safety in really difficult surroundings. The U S Forest Service has been very supportive in Justin’s battle. Several team members have been with us this whole time and we are very grateful for them assisting us through this difficult time.
Thank you to both Life Flight and Victory Air Transport for getting him safely to medical facilities. Thanks to the medical staff at both St. Joseph’s Hospital in Lewiston and Sacred Heart in Spokane. A special shout out to the ICU nurses he had at Sacred Heart, your love and compassion are so appreciated.
Thank you to all the prayer warriors out there lifting Justin and our family up in prayer. You have really come through when he was not medically stable and had pneumonia. Please continue to pray for his recovery. We are so thankful for you.
Thank you to everyone who has sent cards and emails of encouragement and stories of how their family member has overcome traumatic brain injuries. Thanks to everyone who has been so generous in donating to Justin’s GoFundMe. This has and will help Justin have the support of his family while he goes through recovery.
Justin was medically transported via air ambulance from Sacred Heart to PAM Health Denver. PAM is a post-acute medical hospital. PAM provides acute care for patients requiring intensive medical nursing, respiratory, and therapy services. This is where he will continue to recover and prepare for his long rehabilitation with Craig Hospital in Denver. Craig Hospital is a world-renowned rehabilitation hospital that exclusively specializes in neurorehabilitation and research for individuals with spinal cord and brain injury,” said Joe and Dawn Shaw in an email.
For those wishing to send cards or letters of encouragement, please use the following addresses:
Justin Shaw
5365 Wangaratta Way
Littleton, Colorado 80130
Or
ATTN: Justin Shaw
Slate Creek Ranger Station
304 Slate Creek Road
White Bird, Idaho 83554
Or via email: Justinshawrecovery@gmail.com
