Christmas came early for some local burn survivors on Saturday. They were treated to a day of fun and relaxation during an annual holiday party in Clovis.
The Peters Burn Center in Fresno, Alisa Ann Ruch Burn Foundation and local fire departments sponsored the event. Kids come from areas between Sacramento and Los Angeles to Fresno because of its amazing burn unit.
130 burn survivors and their family members enjoyed a meal, made crafts and met Santa Claus.
6-year old Blake Hammack turned in his wish list.
“Candy, a ball and a whole bunch of stuff,” said Blake Hammack.
Blake severely burned his back when he leaned against a propane heater. His mom is grateful an opportunity like this exists for her son.
“It's really amazing. They've put on a great show here. We've had a lot of activities and it's been very eventful,” said Katy Hammack, Blake’s mother.
“I’ve been here once last year and it was pretty fun and it just keeps getting better,” said Melvin Bell.
Melvin Bell is a young man who was a passenger in a horrific wreck near Chowchilla during March of 2009. Two of his buddies were killed, however Bell is alive and recovering thanks to the great medicine and staff at Community Regional's Leon S. Peters Burn Center. This Christmas party provides a boost to Melvin’s spirit.
“You have no worries when you're here. It's just great,” said Bell.
For burn survivors, it can be difficult for them to show their scars as the work to adapt back into society.
“So it’s nice to be able to give them support with an opportunity to succeed in what they want to do and feel loved,” said Chris Bridger, an organizer.
The Alisa Ann Ruch Burn Foundation puts together events all year long and can always use volunteers. If you would like to help, click the link posted on this page.
