Maple Ridge woman survives car fire, now inspiring others to support burn survivors through lottery

Source: Maple Ridge-Pitt Meadows News

Written By: Colleen Flanagan

A Maple Ridge woman is lucky to be alive after sustaining second- and third-degree burns covering a majority of her body following a car fire two-plus years ago.

Now, Kathleen Devonne wants people to support essential services and survivor programs at Vancouver General Hospital, (VGH), the University of British Columbia Hospital, (UBCH), and the British Columbia Professional Fire Fighters Burn Fund, by purchasing a ticket in the Hometown Heroes Lottery.

Devonne received burns to 63 per cent of her body and was initially treated at Royal Columbian Hospital on Aug. 19, 2021.

She was then transferred to the intensive care unit at VGH for a five-and-a-half months of treatment.

Devonne underwent multiple surgeries to remove damaged tissue and foreign objects from her wounds, skin grafts, and amputation of some of her fingers.

Then she transitioned to GF Strong Rehabilitation Centre where she received three months of intensive physical therapy.

Devonne credits her survival to the first responders, medical professionals, and therapists who contributed to her healing journey.

Now that she has made amazing progress, regaining her independence, Devonne is hoping her story will inspire others to purchase a ticket – money that will ultimately go to support people just like her.

Every ticket purchased contributes to supporting funds for essential services at VGH and UBC Hospital, GF Strong Rehab Centre, and Vancouver Community Health Services, as well as Burn Fund initiatives – for burn and trauma survivors province-wide.

These initiatives include the Home Away program, mental health support services, and the annual Burn Camp for young survivors, all making a profound impact on the lives of those in need across B.C.

“The Hometown Heroes Lottery plays a crucial role in supporting survivor services and essential programs for burn survivors of all ages,” said Jeff Sauve, executive director of the BC Professional Fire Fighters’ Burn Fund.

“With your participation in the lottery, you are directly contributing to the enhancement of care and support for burn survivors and their families across the province and addressing their diverse needs. Together, we are making a meaningful difference in their lives,” he added.

Angela Chapman, president and CEO of VGH and the UBC Hospital Foundation noted that money raised allows not only for the purchase of new equipment, but for new treatments, and research and clinical trials, which will benefit patients across the province.

The British Columbia Professional Fire Fighters Burn Fund is a registered charity established in 1978 by the BC Professional Fire Fighters Association, representing more than 4,500 professional fire fighters from 55 communities in BC and the Yukon. The charity is dedicated to supporting burn survivors through their recovery journeys every step of the way.

The winner could pick a brand new house, with 10 prize package options to choose from in South Surrey, Vancouver, Courtenay, Sooke, Chilliwack, West Kelowna, Burnaby, and Langley. Each are valued from $2.4 to $2.5 million.

Alternatively, the grand prize winner can opt for $2.2 million in tax-free cash. Participants also stand the chance to win more than $3 million in prizes, including daily cash prizes, a 50/50 jackpot, and an additional 2,700 prizes up for grabs.

The deadline to purchase a ticket is midnight on July 11, if tickets are not sold out.

To purchase tickets go to: https://heroeslottery.com.