Girl Thanks NE Firefighters for Saving Her Life

Jan. 11, 2023
Murray volunteer firefighters rushed her to the hospital after she suffered a life-threatening seizure.

A girl owes her life to volunteers at the local fire department, and she just wanted to say thanks.

That's why she, her parents, friends and cheerleading squad showed up at Murray Volunteer Fire Company.

The recent reunion was much different than their first encounter on Dec. 17 when Macy Wilke, 8, suffered a life-threatening seizure at her home. 

"I went directly from my house to the scene," Capt. Steve Van Gorp told KETV. "We just needed to get her in the squad and we needed to start transport right away to the hospital."

Meghan Wilke said doctors told her the seizure was a result of encephalitis due to influenza A. Her daughter spent two days on life support after the episode.

"I don't know that her outcome would've been so favorable if we didn't have people who were willing to roll out of bed and drive their personal vehicles to answer our call," Meghan said, adding that they live in a very remote area.

Macy understands how lucky she is. "Honestly, I wouldn't have been alive without them. I feel thankful that the people were there for me."

Van Gorp told the reporter: "It's really cool to see her and how well she's doing and how active she is."