Chad Heaton Medical Fund

Chad lives in a rural part of Northern California in the Six Rivers National Forest and is contracted with the Forest Service as a Timber Faller for hazard tree removal.  Highly skilled at what he does, he was working on the August Complex fire cutting a tree on the fire line that had been compromised by the fire. The damaged wood in the tree gave way unexpectedly and came down toward Chad. In spite of a brilliant scramble, his foot was pinned under the falling tree. The Mendocino Hot Shots were on hand to render aid. Chad’s leg was broken just above the ankle, and several bones in his foot were also broken. He was flown to Mercy Redding for surgery.

People with limited financial resources often times have to make the difficult  decision to go without health insurance. In this case, it’s one of our local heroes on the front line fighting fires. Because he’s contracted by the Forest Service due to his specialized knowledge, expertise and training, he’s not covered by an employer's health plan. Yet, as a contractor, he makes too much to qualify for medicaid.

All this aside, what we have is a modern day hero who’s now saddled with what will end up to be likely over $60,000 in medical debt in addition to lost wages as the fire season rages on. Please consider donating to help offset the debt and losses.

Your kindness and generosity are appreciated beyond measure.