(UPDATE) Firefighter hit by vehicle returns to Dawson Creek to continue treatment

Updated, November 28th, 10.45 a.m.: This story was updated to clarify that Captain Brooks Gower’s surgery was held in Vancouver rather than Prince George. Energeticcity.ca is happy to set the record straight.

DAWSON CREEK, B.C. — The Dawson Creek firefighter seriously injured on Highway 97 is continuing his recovery closer to home.

According to a November 24th Facebook update posted by Captain Brooks Gower’s wife, Tryna Gower, he is currently focusing on learning to walk again with the assistance of the Dawson Creek and District Hospital’s physiotherapy team.

Brooks was critically injured after being struck by a passing vehicle while responding to a crash on Highway 97 south of Groundbirch on October 29th.

According to Tryna, Brooks is making steady progress in his recovery.

His broken arm “continues to make great strides,” Tryna wrote, noting his nine broken ribs and five fractured vertebrae are also healing slowly. She said Brooks will remain in a neck brace for about two and a half more weeks.

Though the family doesn’t yet know how long Brooks will remain in hospital, Tryna said they are hopeful he may be home in time for Christmas. 

She added that Brooks’ determination has remained “unwavering” throughout his recovery.

“This man has blown every single person’s mind with his incredible grit and dedication,” she wrote. “I couldn’t be prouder to be this man’s wife.”

Tryna also asked community members to avoid dropping by the hospital unannounced, noting that Brooks still needs rest and privacy. Friends can text Brooks directly or message her for visiting protocols.

Brooks’ return to Dawson Creek follows weeks of intensive care and surgery in Vancouver, where he was treated for extensive injuries including fractures to his leg, spine, arm and ribs. 

In a previous update, Tryna asked anyone wanting to help to direct donations to the Dawson Creek Firefighters Charitable Society in Brooks’ name rather than setting up personal fundraisers.

To donate, email dcffcharitablesociety@gmail.com with “Capt Gower” in the note line.