February 20, 2022 – the day that forever changed the life of Scott Besse, Lieutenant on the Claresholm Volunteer Fire Department and grader operator at the MD of Willow Creek.

Returning from an evening out with friends, Scott and 5 others were involved in a rollover accident on a rural road in near whiteout conditions. Scott and one other member were pinned in the vehicle and had to await extrication from fire departments that both work side-by-side with. Immediately after the accident Scott knew something was wrong – he couldn’t feel or move his legs, and his hands were very weak. Upon arrival to the hospital in Lethbridge it was determined that Scott had badly broken his neck and he was immediately sent to the Foothills Hospital in Calgary for surgical repair and stabilization of the c-spine. Scott spent nearly 3 months in the Foothills Hospital before being released to his hometown hospital in Claresholm to continue his rehab. Although he has a long way to go in his recovery, his never-say-die attitude and constant cheerful demeanour sees him through the harder days. Surrounded by friends, co-workers, family (both fire and natural), and the community at large, Scott continues to make progress day-by-day, and I cannot wait until I can welcome my good friend; 1312, Lt. Scott Besse back to duty in the hall. Your donations will be given directly to the Besse family for costs associated and incurred as a part of his recovery. Modifications to his home have already started in anticipation of his release from the hospital; and the Besse’s have purchased a wheelchair accessible van.

Claresholm Fire would like to extend a HUGE THANK YOU to the Alberta Fire Training Conference for donating the proceeds of this years silent auction to our our injured Lt. Scott Besse and his family. We are proud and honored to be part of such a wonderful Fire Family! Thanks to all those that were the successful bidders on some awesome items.

Thank you to everyone who made this possible!
Craig D. White
Fire Chief, Town of Claresholm
(403) 625-3922