Blog Story and Photo submitted by Firefighter Rob Kapuniai-Ryan

Fire Lieutenant Lee Etten & Firefighter Rob Kapuniai-Ryan visit burn survivor

A few months back, we took Engine 4 over to Emanuel Burn Center and visited a little girl that was being treated for burns. She was in the hospital for a few weeks by the time we had gone to see her. Many other fire crews from Portland Fire & Rescue had signed up to visit her as well.  We spent a few hours with her to give the nurses a break. Its very hard for one person to keep a child that is hurt and stuck in one room happy.

This little girl was so awesome! Even with her injuries, she was so excited that we were there that she insisted on getting us to pull her in the radio flyer wagon outside to see the engine with its lights on.  We even put it into pump and sprayed some water, which she liked!

After, we went back and read stories (her favorites was Dora the explorer which we read twice), then walked the cool garden they have there. All in all, it was a rewarding experience.

To anyone that has not been to volunteer at the burn center yet, do it! It is worth the time.  Not only do the kids love it, you will too.  Also, my hats off and a deep bow to the nurses and doctors at the Emanuel Burn Center. Takes a pretty amazing person to be able to do that job day in and day out. You are all amazing!

  Portland Fire & Rescue