Stigall soon learned that victims of fire undergo excruciating treatments to recover from their burns. One procedure involves using a steel brush to grate at the children’s skin, sloughing off dead skin seared by flames.

Stigall and Haun introduced the fundraiser to the Richland Township department last year and say firefighters approached their goal with enthusiasm, hosting several events including a cookout and a bowling outing.

Richland Fire Chief Bryan Frank have a special connection with the wounded campers since firefighters are often burned in the line of duty or during training exercises. Even in controlled training environments, firefighters must enter structures burning at 1900 degrees. “When our people are in a fire, you feel the heat and we’re protected by gear. You can imagine how horrible it was for children to be trapped in their bedrooms with their clothes catching fire. I think you can relate to the pain they experienced.”

Haun, who works as a counselor at the camp, said firefighters often rescue inhabitants of burning homes and the story ends there. “A lot of us are trained to deal with taking care of the scene when we’re on the scene, but I don’t think a lot of us know about what happens afterward.”

“Once you get to meet the campers and see the camp, everything comes full circle,” Haun said.

Richland firefighters are currently planning their next fundraising event for the burn victims and Stigall said area residents should consider the value of the cause.

“Imagine one of your kids, 8 to 18, who’s been severely burned. All the scar tissue, all the self-esteem issues and others making fun, kids being kids, and your kids gets to go away to a camp for one week free, where he can be just like one of the kids. How much is that worth?”

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Make a donation for burn victims

Send donations to: Richland Township Volunteer Fire Department

At: 405 E. 500 North, Anderson, 46012