The community is coming together to support lifelong Lamar County resident and paramedic of 25-years, Russell Thrasher, as he undergoes multiple surgeries and faces months of rehabilitation following a major wreck on Dec. 11, 2024.
Thrasher was traveling back to Paris, Texas, from Oklahoma at the time of the accident in which his vehicle crashed into the back of a log truck.
The accident left him with severe injuries to his right leg, 9 fractured ribs on the left side, a collapsed lung on the left, and trees (from the log trucks) through his right leg that will require a minimum of five to seven skin grafts.
On Dec. 30, 2024, Thrasher underwent his sixth surgery and it is unknown how many more surgeries he will need.
With an unknown amount of time off work, friends have set-up a GoFundMe to help Thrasher and his family during this time.
“Russell has been there to help so many people during critical times in their life,” the Goodson’s, GoFundMe organizers. “He has always gone above and beyond for everyone around him . He has organized multiple fundraisers for colleagues, friends and others he found who have suffered emergencies and losses. He has been generous in his dedication to serving others. This service hadn’t just been local. He has served on emergency management teams involving natural disasters not only in Lamar County, but also throughout Texas and the United States. He had been on hand to render aid after hurricanes and other natural disasters many times.”
Many others in the community have shared their support for Thrasher, encouraging others to come together to support the man who has given so much to the community.
Mike Boaz, Chief of Police at NLISD, said, “Russell has saved so many lives and has trained numerous 1st responders in our area. Please read the description of his injuries in the GoFundMe and consider donating. He has an extremely long road ahead.”
“If each of our followers could consider making at least a $10 or more donation to Russell and his family, we could all help them out. He has done so much for our community over the years,” said Faught VFD online.
To donate to the GoFundme, click here.
