Hunter Valles (Big Sexy)

On March 3rd, 2022, Hunter Valles, an Operating Engineer with Local 150, was critically injured in an explosion at the steel mill. He was life-flighted to the hospital and admitted to the burn unit with third-degree burns over 75% of his body, smoke and inhalation burns to his lungs, and given about a 1% chance of survival. Hunter has undergone many procedures and surgeries almost every day since the accident and is currently on life support. Each day doctors are able to assess his injuries a little more. Doctors estimate he will need between 40-50 surgeries and be in the hospital for several months with an estimated 12-18 month recovery time. There are still many unknown complications that Hunter is facing and will continue to face moving forward. Despite his progress and how hard he is fighting, this will be an uphill battle and a very long, painful road to recovery, should God give us a miracle and allow him to stay with us.

 

If you know Hunter, you know what a fighter he is. He's the best friend I could ever ask for and has always been there for me. Hunter is in the fight of his life and will need all of our love, support, and prayers through this battle. The man who has such a huge heart and has given the shirt off his back to help so many is now the one in need of help. We understand that times are very tough for everyone right now, but if you'd like to make a donation to help support Hunter in this ongoing fight, recovery, and what we pray will be his eventual homecoming, it would be so appreciated. If you are not in a position to donate, please just keep Hunter and his family in your continued thoughts and prayers! He is going to need them!

 

We want to thank the Local 150 Operators who ran, without hesitation, into a terrifying situation to get to Hunter. We can never thank you enough for what you did. Huge thank you and love to the entire brother and sisterhood of Local 150 and how they have been there to support this family. Our sincere thank you to the other trades and Locals who have reached out and offered prayers and support. Thank you to friends, family, and even complete strangers who have reached out to comfort the family at this time. A Special thank you to the lifeline helicopter pilots, EMTs, ER staff, doctors, surgeons, and nurses who are taking such amazing care of Hunter at this unimaginable time. "Thank you" falls so short of the gratitude and love we feel for each one of you! Thank you from the bottom of our hearts...God bless you all...