SPOKANE, Wash. — The firefighter who was injured by a falling tree while fighting a wildfire in an Idaho national forest will continue his journey to recovery in Denver.
26-year-old Justin “Riley” Shaw was struck in the head by a tree while battling a wildfire in the Salmon River Ranger District of the Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forest on August 10.
After the accident, Shaw was Life Flighted to Sacred Heart in Spokane where he received care in the ICU.
On Wednesday, Shaw’s family released a statement thanking his medical team, fellow firefighters, air transport and everyone who sent prayers and well-wishes.
“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,” the family said.
Shaw was airlifted from Sacred Heart to PAM Health Denver, a post-acute medical hospital that cares 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 Shaw’s family.
Anyone who would like to send cards or words of encouragements to Justin and is family can mail them to: 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 email him at justinshawrecovery@gmail.com.
All questions can be directed to Jim Wimer, Fire Prevention/ Education/ Mitigation/Information Specialist, Nez Perce-Clearwater NF, c-208-451-4654, email: james.wimer@usda.gov.
Justin and his family are also still accepting donations to his GoFundMe.
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https://www.gofundme.com/f/justin-riley-shaws-road-to-recovery
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