02/02/2026
At six years old, Terry McCarty survived an accident that permanently changed his life.
During a childhood incident involving kerosene, Terry was engulfed in flames and suffered severe burns covering approximately 70–73% of his body. He was placed in a medically induced coma for about two months and spent nearly a year in the hospital, undergoing 58 surgeries as doctors worked to save his life.
Recovery extended far beyond the hospital. As he grew up, Terry faced lasting physical challenges, emotional struggles, and bullying, while learning how to rebuild confidence and independence.
As an adult, Terry chose to confront one of his greatest fears. He trained and became a volunteer firefighter, completing fire academy training and facing live-fire exercises despite physical limitations and emotional weight.
Later, he shifted his focus to supporting young burn survivors through recovery programs. Today, Terry shares his story to show how resilience and purpose can emerge from tragedy.
(Photo: Terry McCarty)
