Minneapolis firefighter Jake LaFerriere suffered serious injuries from a house explosion in 2010: third- and fourth-degree burns across his hands and arms, cracked ribs and a broken left foot. He laid in a burn unit for six weeks, immobile and thought his career was over.
But through the pain, he found his life's purpose, NBC News reported.
After meeting two young siblings who were receiving care at the same time, LaFerriere says their perseverance inspired him to help start the nonprofit Firefighters For Healing following his recovery.
"The one thing that Jake provides is hope and comfort to these kids and their families," said Melissa Mowery, a longtime friend and co-founder of the organization. "You can't put a value amount on hope."
