May 24, 2012
KINGSTON, Tenn. (WVLT) - While a Roane County firefighter continues his fight to recover from severe injuries, his community is reaching out to help his family.
18 year-old Caleb Wilson was critically injured when his car collided with a horse last month.
His mom was told he may not make it through the night, but now she says he's a breathing miracle.
Hundreds of family, friends, and a firefighting brotherhood packed the New Midway Baptist Church for a benefit for the Roane County High senior.
"All of Roane County, Oak Ridge. There's people have prayed for him in other states. It's been unbelievable," said Helena Horton.
There was food, a silent auction, but also time for everyone to show their support for Wilson, his mom, and their family.
"The first night, they told me he would not live through the night, and all I could do was pray," said Horton.
Since that night, Caleb's come a long way.
Horton says he can walk, talk, move his arms, and his memory is improving as he recovers at the Patricia Neal Rehabillitation Center.
"They're working with him on psychological testing, speech therapy so far he's doing wonderful," said Horton.
"It's been rough like you said. He's one of those that we can count on to respond and we're just doing everything we can for him and his family while we wait for him to get back," said East Roane Volunteer Fire Department Captain Andrew Murray.
And when he does leave the hospital, Horton says she's going to throw him a huge welcome home party.
More than $6,000 was raised Saturday night, which was much more than expected.
The family set up a Facebook page for his recovery. Just search for "Prayers for Caleb Wilson" to join the group.
