STT. Firefighter Trapped in Roof Collapse Faces Deep Burns, Treatment Delays, and a Long Road to Recovery
A firefighter in Fort Worth who was seriously injured while on duty is still facing serious medical challenges months after the incident.
Firefighter Caleb Halvorson, who was injured while fighting a fire in September, has experienced complications during his recovery, according to his family and medical team.
Doctors said his burns were deeper than initially assessed, requiring him to undergo more surgeries, intensive wound care, and prolonged rehabilitation.
Currently, Halvorson is still unable to walk on his own and must continue daily treatment to prevent infection and maintain mobility.
Injuries sustained while responding to a fire.
Halvorson was injured while fighting a fire at a house in Fort Worth.
During the course of his duty, the roof inside the building collapsed, trapping him under the rubble.
He suffered extensive second- and third-degree burns.
In addition, he suffered a dislocated knee and several other injuries.
Halvorson was taken to Parkland Hospital and admitted to the burn unit.
Doctors performed multiple surgeries to stabilize the condition and prevent dangerous complications.
Treatment Time is Prolonged
Halvorson was treated in the burn unit for several weeks.
He underwent skin grafts and repeated surgeries.
The doctor confirmed that the depth of the burn would require a longer treatment process than initially anticipated.
Part of the treatment protocol is a wound cleansing therapy called “The Tank.”
This therapy aims to remove necrotic tissue and prevent infection.
Burn specialists say this procedure is necessary but causes intense pain.
Family Separated Between Two Hospitals
While Halvorson was undergoing treatment, his family continued to face another crisis.
His son, Hudson, was born prematurely at 13 weeks and had to be admitted to the NICU.
His wife, Haley, travels daily between the burn unit and the NICU.
The family had to divide their time and resources between the two hospitals.
Halvorson is unable to visit his children due to health limitations.
Hospital Discharge and Long-Term Recovery Process
After undergoing several major surgeries, Halvorson was discharged from the hospital.
The doctor warned that the recovery process would take months or even longer.
At home, he needs assistance with daily activities and wound care.
His wife became the primary caregiver while also caring for the premature baby.
Halvorson continued to have regular follow-up appointments and rehabilitation sessions.
Workers’ Insurance Disputes
After being discharged from the hospital, Halvorson had difficulty getting medical device approval.
The CPM machine, which doctors determined was necessary for knee rehabilitation, was initially refused.
The file was processed by Sedgwick for the City of Fort Worth.
The refusal has stalled the recovery process.
Following strong public backlash, the decision was reversed and the device was approved.
Other Treatment Delays
Laser surgery to improve mobility was also rejected twice.
Ultimately, the surgery was approved after appeals.
Halvorson said the rejections added to his mental stress.
He is concerned that necessary future treatments may continue to be delayed.
Concern for Other Rescuers
Halvorson worked with city council members and legislators.
He said his concerns weren’t just for himself.
He questioned the lack of public attention given to the medical care provided to other firefighters.
He called for reforms to ensure healthcare rights for injured rescuers.
Current Status
As of now, Halvorson is still undergoing treatment and recovery.
His son continues to receive medical care due to his premature birth.
The family must balance treatment, care, and daily life.
The incident has raised broader concerns about access to medical care for firefighters injured while on duty.
