Pocono News Section

Fundraisers Set for Local Firefighter

Fundraisers Set for Local Firefighter - Friday, April 25, 2008 at 5:13PM EST

Reported by: Jeremy Deebel
Friday, Apr 25, 2008 @ 05:13pm EST
Watsontown, Northumberland County-

Community members are coming together to help a local hero paralyzed in the line of duty. Two fundraisers are set for tomorrow to benefit volunteer firefighter Wayne Hawley.

Watsontown business owner Hal Thomas doesn't actually know Hawley. He learned through the media the Warrior Run fire captain was paralyzed from the waist while fighting an intentionally set fire back in November.

But he felt the need to do something. So he organized a chicken barbecue fundraiser. "They all risk life and limb on a daily basis for us to protect our lives and property. He was a result of this unfortunate accident, and I think that is as good of a cause as you can get," Thomas explained.

The barbecue will be held Saturday, April 26th at noon. It'll be in the parking lot behind Dr. Dale Chomas' office at Brimmer and Main Street in Watsontown. It's seven dollars a plate and you get plenty for your money. There will also be raffles and more.

In addition to the chicken barbecue, a dance will be held Saturday night starting at seven o'clock. That event is being organized by Hawley's fellow firefighters and will feature the band, "The Cruisers."

Warrior Run E. M.T. Veronica Irvine said, “From Wayne’s point of view, I truly believe that he’s amazed at the way the community and other fire companies have come together to support him." She added, “When it’s one of your own, it’s family, it’s a brother. It gets you a lot. It’s really tough to see one of your own hurt.”

Warrior Run volunteers also built a wheelchair accessible ramp in anticipation of Wayne Hawley's return from rehabilitation in Philadelphia.

We spoke with Hawley's wife, Judy, on the phone this afternoon. She says doctors expect Wayne to be home in about a month. She also asked us to express her sincere thanks to the Warrior Run Area Fire Department and the entire community for their help during Wayne's recovery.