Burned Jamaican Firefighter Treated In Miami
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MIAMI (CBSMiami) - A Jamaican firefighter burned in the line of duty is recovering in South Florida after local firefighters stepped in to help him get the treatment he needed.
Tennyson McFarlane, 37, suffered third degree burns to his face and hands when a propane tank exploded during a house fire in Kingston, Jamaica.
"I was told I was at risk of losing my fingers," said McFarlane. "They also told me I could never go back to work."
The 13-year veteran firefighter underwent 12 surgeries in six months. Doctors in Kingston provided the best care available to them, but resources were limited.
McFarlanes captain reached out to a retired Miami-Dade Fire Rescue Captain Natosha Gonzales for help. McFarlane was flown to Miami to receive specialized treatment at the University of Miami/Jackson Memorial Hospital Burn Center at Ryder Trauma Center.
"The two weeks I've been here I've seen miracles. I've seen changes," said McFarlane.
McFarlane made the sacrifice to leave his home, wife, and 2-year-old daughter to seek treatment at the burn center with the help of the Miami-Dade County Fire Rescue and Miami-Dade Firefighters Union Local 1403. Gonzales also provided him a place to live and continues to raise money to assist with his medical expenses.
McFarlane has been receiving regular occupational therapy at the burn center and has made tremendous strides, regaining partial ability move his hands.
"When he first got here, he couldn't tie his shoes, he couldn't feed himself or use the restroom on his own," said his therapist Angel Alvarez. "He still has a long way to go, but he is now doing all the above."
McFarlane still needs additional surgery, skin grafts and therapy but he hopes to head back home to his family and job when he is done with treatment in about six months.
"That is my dream, that is my love," said McFarlane. "I love serving, saving and protecting."
A reggae night fundraiser is planned for Friday, February 19th at the Fire Tower at 8000 NW 21st street in Miami.
A Go Fund Me page has also been set up to help raise money for McFarlane's recovery. Click Here to donate.
