Burn survivors celebrate Mother’s Day with emotional gathering
EL CENTRO – This city’s Fire Department and the Burn Institute hosted a meet-up to celebrate Mother’s Day on Saturday at Fire Station 3.
“We felt that Mother’s Day is such a big event not only to celebrate moms who have to endure some of the most traumatic injuries to their children,” said Leilani Stone, director of Burn Survivor Services at the Burn Institute. “They are the ones that hold the family together, especially in time of need.”
The event highlighted the strength behind mothers and gathered local burn survivors with their families to celebrate their recovery journey.
For Patricia Carrillo, a Brawley resident, being honored as a mother and burn survivor has a different meaning.
“It makes me feel special,” said Carrillo. “As mothers, we are not used to receiving help or support. Regularly we are the caregivers, and I feel appreciated by being recognized by my family and community.”
Carrillo recalled with tears the moment she got first and second-degree burns on her arms, face, chin and parts of her legs. She was charging her laptop and noticed a weird noise. When Carrillo checked the device, it exploded at her residence.
“I remember that I opened my eyes and my skin was burned from the accident. I had a lot of blisters,” said Carrillo. “It was something I have never felt before.”
The incident happened in October 2020, while the pandemic was at a
high point in the Impe
rial Valley. Her husband took her to Pioneer’s Memorial Hospital in Brawley, where nurses tried to help Carrillo as soon as possible. Afterward, she was transferred to San Diego for additional care.
Carrillo’s recovery was painful. She was sent back home six days after the incident, where she continued with treatment and therapy.
“Recovery has been physical, but also mental,” Carrillo said. “I re
member I was panicked with Fourth of July fireworks, and I am afraid of the laptop. There are some fears left that you don’t know until later.”
After two years, Carrillo’s wounds are still recovering. She has been attending burn survivor support groups organized by the Burn Insti
tute that have helped her heal from trauma.
“Everyone’s burn injury is different, but it’s the trauma that’s behind it and we feel is most important to address,” Stone said.
During the meet-up, firefighters from ECFD presented a check to the Burn Institute from proceeds collected during the 15th annual Mike Benavidez Softball Tournament.
“We were here to give, and now we’re going to receive,” said Stone. “I think that’s the message that as much as you give out, you’re going to get back in return. Even with the families, they will share their surviving techniques with others.”
The program included performances by the Southwest High School SAVAPA choir and Las Flores del Valle Folklorica dance group.