Stevens County fire crews work 40 hours, one after losing home

The cost was great on August 1st, when AJ was working with Stevens County Fire Crews to battle the Old Trails Fire.

"The morning of the old trails fire was the day after my aunt had passed," AJ said. "I got back to the station, probably about 8 or 9 hours after we had been on the fire for initial attack, and I got confirmation from my chief that my home was gone."

AJ's family and pets had been safely evacuated before her home was lost, so she made a choice.

"My family was safe, I got everything where I needed to, and I came to work," AJ said. "I needed to be here to be on this fire to prevent other homes from not getting destroyed."

AJ continuing to work with Stevens County Fire Crews in the immediate aftermath of losing her home inspired those around her.

"I can't imagine what she's going through and is going to continue to go through," said Stevens 1 Fire Rescue Chief Mike Bucy. "AJ is a great individual. A great person."

Bucy said some Stevens County crews were on the line for 40 hours, and firefighters appreciate the gestures of gratitude from the community.

"I think for the firefighters, when you see them driving down the road, give them a wave," Bucy said. "A simple wave, a simple sign...It goes a long way. Little things make a huge difference to these people."

Bucy said these fire crews can't usually accept baked goods from grateful residents though, even though they're delivered with good intent.

"We kinda like baked goods, but you don't know where they're coming from," Bucy said. "You don't know the sanitary conditions they were baked in. Even with great intentions, I don't need sick firefighters."

AJ's community has created a fundraiser to show support for their firefighting hero continuing to work to protect peoples homes and livelihoods.