In late August of 2024, O’Brien set off to work, like any normal day. His shift at Michelin would take a turn for the worst, ultimately resulting in him acquiring a serious traumatic brain injury.
“My husband suffers from ABI (Acquired Brian Injury) as a result of a workplace accident. He was seen by the Michelin emergency response team and paramedics. He ended up at the QE2 where he remained in a coma for 3 weeks.” Shared Denise O’Brien.
His determination and willingness to get better brought him home, after a long hard battle in hospital and rehab.
Before Shawn’s injury, he actively served as a volunteer firefighter, holding the rank of Lieutenant and accumulated 12 years of fire service, specifically to the Waterville & District Volunteer Fire Department, tragically, this was cut short.
Since Shawn has slowly recovered, even two years later, his life is forever changed, many of the things he was able to do before he won’t be able to do now, including serve in the fire service.
O’Brien is regularly restricted in performing activities, with cognitive delays as a result of his ABI but progress has slowly been improving.
Approximately 13 years ago Shawn moved to the Annapolis Valley from Manitoba!
As a result of his injury, he later returned back home to Manitoba to visit family. It was then when they learned his memories, and people he knew remain familiar. Even his body feels better at home, with less aches and pains.
Shawn and his lovely wife Denise, have ultimately made the difficult decision to move back to Manitoba where Shawn’s memories are more clear and where his family is.
The Waterville & District Volunteer Fire Department, like many other departments honour firefighters with veterans status when they reach 15 years of service. Unfortunately Shawn was just shy of this milestone but members had a better idea in play.
“Considering Shawn couldn’t complete his 15 years, we felt this was an appropriate way to be able to honour him.” Waterville Chief Wayne Johnstone expressed.
With a parade of fire trucks and a plethora of firefighters, they made a special drive by the residence this evening, including a road side stop and presentation, to ensure Shawn always remains apart of the department.
It’s challenging to see anyone, yet someone who served their community suffer from an injury that restricts their ability to have a normal life.
This farewell and touching send off was just one way to say thank you for 12 dedicated years of service to the community.
“The support from everyone, including the fire department, Michelin, family & friends have been overwhelming yet comforting.” shared Denise O’Brien.
Adrian J.
