Wildland Firefighter injured on Hermits Peak Fire

This fundraiser is for Nickolas Palmer, one of the three injured hotshots on the Hermits Peak/ Calf Canyon fire.

On Sunday, May 29th, while on The Hermits Peak fire in New Mexico, Nick had approximately 2,500 gallons of water dropped (a type 1 bucket drop) on top of him from a hovering helicopter about 100 ft above him. This ultimately ended his fire season and limits his opportunity to collect over-time, which, every Wildland Firefighter so desperately depends on.

He has multiple fractures throughout his entire face and mouth, as well as 3 breaks on his nose, and a shattered knee cap. He went through reconstructive surgery on his knee, in addition to having multiple plates and brackets placed into his face, and his jaw completely wired shut.

This is his 6th year fighting fire, and it is one of the biggest passions he has, he has been firefighting since the age of 18. It is absolutely devastating for him to be in this situation, as he cannot do the thing he loves most, and instead has to recover. This ultimately will alter Nick's life for a very long time, if not forever.

We are very fortunate and lucky that he is alive with us today.

He is still in a severe amount of pain, and workman's compensation will not pay him nearly the amount he would have made while firefighting throughout the season. So please if you can, donate whatever you’re able to. Every little bit helps.

Thank you so much, and hug your firefighte rs for us if you can.