How To Support Idaho Firefighter Injured By A Fallen Tree

Our firefighters were extremely busy this year and for them, it's all in a day's work. Our brave men and women on the frontlines knowingly put their health and lives on the line to keep our community safe.

And boy, did we need it this year.

A Dangerous Wildfire Season

According to Idaho Conservation, the 2024 Idaho Wildfire reported that as of October 1st, over 826,000 acres burned in the Gem State which is the most since 2012. To add to that, Idaho Conservation says that Idaho also had the worst smoke its had in over 20 years.

Who knows how much worse it could have bene had we not had the protection of our firefighters.

What's even more incredible is despite how dangerous the conditions of the wildfires were, our frontline heroes went in head first, ready to extinguish what they could.

One Of Our Beloved Heroes Needs Our Support

As you might imagine, being inside of a wildfire is dangerous with hazards lurking around every corner. One of our heroes, firefighter Justin Shaw, was injured while combating the fires back in August.

While Shaw was combating the fires near the Salmon River Ranger District, he was struck by a tree that resulted in some serious injuries.

According to a news release from the U.S. Forest Service, Shaw is currently recovering from a series of procedures and recoveries with officials predicting that it could Shaw up to two years to recover.

"Justin is working hard every day; pushing himself to improve his balance, speech, gross motor skills, swallowing, and daily tasks," Shaw's family shared in a post from the U.S. Forest Service.

"Despite his physical challenges he still has his personality, humor, character, and dedication to work hard that makes him Justin. This makes him a pleasure for the medical staff to treat."

Now, the family is encouraging supporters to offer words of wisdom in the form of letters.

"Since this is such a long journey please keep Justin and his family in your prayers and feel free to send encouraging letters, they uplift both him and his family."

If you wish to support Shaw on his road to recovery, you can send your letters to one of two addresses:

Justin Shaw
8282 Yale Drive
Highlands, CO 80130

ATTN: Justin Shaw
Slate Creek Ranger Station
304 Slate Creek Road
White Bird, ID 83544

You can also email your support and thanks to Shaw for his service at JustinShawRecovery@gmail.com.