The Cane family has faced weeks in the hospital and months of recovery, but they have not been alone in their journey. The Grand View Community’s First Responders have shown incredible kindness and support. As one of the First Responders present during the accident, I felt compelled to do something for the family.
The fire department reported that the accident occurred on the night of October 23rd, when Elsie and her 14-year-old sister Eliza were attempting to make s’mores using a special cooker. Unfortunately, both girls sustained burns and were flown to the Vanderbilt Hospital Burn Unit. Eliza’s burns on her legs were treated and she was soon released. On the other hand, Elsie’s injuries were much more severe, with second and third degree burns covering almost 70% of her body.
She has been in the hospital since the accident. Despite this tragic event, the Cane family remains strong, supporting each other throughout the process.
Stephanie Melton, the Spencer County EMA director, works alongside Elsie’s mother Dinger, who is part of the Spencer County EMA search and rescue team. Since we are a small community and know each other well, we often collaborate. The fire departments in Spencer County teamed up with the EMA office to organize a pancake benefit fundraiser. Friends, strangers, and First Responders all came together to support the family.
One particular crew flew in and shared a special message for Elsie, expressing their well wishes and even mentioning her recent birthday. Elsie has recently been transferred to Shun’s Hospital in Dayton, Ohio to continue her treatment.
The funds raised from the benefit will be used to assist Elsie’s family in covering medical expenses, food, and travel. This heartwarming story was reported by Anne Pal for Eyewitness News..
