Supporting Traumatic Burn Survivors Is a Hole-In-One

In the aftermath of a devastating fire, traumatic burn injuries can lead to a long road of pain and healing for survivors. That’s where St. Florian Fire and Burn Foundation comes in. The organization provides support activities for burn survivors in the region. “Following a traumatic burn injury, your life is completely turned upside down and inside out,” explains Andy Sheehan, a career firefighter/EMT in Bettendorf and member of the board of directors of St. Florian Foundation. “And with burn injuries – unlike other injuries – the scars are on the outside.” Beginning in 1993, St. Florian’s team of volunteers has worked to touch the lives and support the journey of the burn survivor community in Iowa, Nebraska, South Dakota and Illinois. The organization’s mission is to reduce burn injuries and mortality through education and research, and to assist burn survivors and their families in maintaining a high quality of life. To meet this mission, the organization hosts three annual camps for burn survivors and their families:

• Miracle Burn Camp is a weeklong camp for burn survivors ages 8-18, giving them an opportunity to be themselves in a non-threatening environment.
• Young Adult Burn Survivors Camp is a three-day experience for burn survivors ages 18-25.
• Family Burn Camp is a three-day experience for burn survivors and their families.

In addition to the three camps for burn survivors and their families, St. Florian also coordinates five regional gatherings for burn survivors across Iowa. This is an opportunity for those impacted by burn injuries to connect and support each another. By gathering more often, survivors realize they aren’t alone.“It’s heartwarming and humbling to be part of this organization,” Andy says. “It truly touches your heart.” As a volunteer-led organization, St. Florian is fully supported and funded by volunteers and donors. “We are unable to support the programs without donations,” says Andy. “Donations are what gives survivors the opportunity to move forward.” This is why fundraisers like the 9^th Annual First Responders Fund Golf Outing is so important. Funds from the four person scramble ball support St. Florian Fire & Burn Foundation and area first responders. The golf outing is presented by 1-800-BOARDUP and Werner Restoration Services, Inc. The tournament begins at 9 a.m. on Friday, June 16, at Indian Bluff Golf Course, Milan. To register or learn more, contact Jaclyn at [email protected].

The bottom line

As a fire restoration business, the Werner Restoration team regularly witnesses the bravery of firefighters and the trauma that fire can leave in its wake. That’s why Werner supports organizations like St. Florian Fire and Burn Foundation throughout the year. Being the title sponsor of this golf outing is one way Werner shows this support. Learn more about St. Florian Fire & Burn Foundation on it’s website and Facebook page.