By FireRescue1 Staff
HOUSTON — A Houston firefighter is learning to navigate his career and life after being stabbed on a call and losing one of his eyes.
Capt. Kenny Willingham was responding to a mechanic shop fire Jan. 6 when he attempted to rescue a man from the flames. Capt. Willingham had removed his helmet to look inside the area when the man stabbed him.
“My biggest fear was will I ever be able to see again,” Capt. Willingham told ABC13.
Following surgery, doctors were unable to save his left eye. Regardless, Capt. Willingham said he intends to return to work as soon as he can.
A colleague of Capt. Willingham’s, Capt. Paul Bivens, said he understands the struggle. Capt. Bivens’ eyesight was damaged in a car crash 20 years ago.
“Doing the job, I know he can do it. I’m living proof,” Capt. Bivens said.
A benefit will be held for Capt. Willingham and his family Feb. 11.
“We just thank the community and everything for the outpouring of support. All the prayers and support. There is no way to put a number on all the support we have gotten,” Melanie, Capt. Willingham’s wife, told Sealy News.
Capt. Willingham also served as the assistant fire chief at the Sealy Volunteer Fire Department.
https://www.facebook.com/TexasAssociationofFirstResponders/photos/a.578683742165030.1073741825.486927734673965/1463051213728274/?type=3&theater https://www.facebook.com/brendastardig/posts/10208475984402107