AURORA, COLORADO – After a harrowing incident involving a flash fire while working on a car, Mancos resident Garan Shaw is facing a long road to recovery. Shaw sustained burns over 25% of his body, including internal damage from inhaling flames, during the accident on April 12. The flash fire occurred when gasoline in the carburetor ignited, engulfing Shaw in flames and causing severe burns to his chest, arms, stomach, neck, and face.
Following the accident, Shaw was taken to Southwest Memorial Hospital before being transferred to UC Health Anschutz Burn Center in Aurora. He remains in a medically induced coma as he undergoes multiple surgeries to treat his injuries. Nancy Shaw, Garan’s mother and a respected educator in the Montezuma-Cortez school district, has been by her son’s side offering support and strength during this challenging time.
A GoFundMe account has been set up to assist with Garan Shaw’s medical expenses, as only a portion of his treatment will be covered by the tribe. The family anticipates that his medical bills could exceed $100,000, placing a significant financial burden on them. The community has rallied around Shaw, highlighting his selfless nature and willingness to help others in need.
Those who know Shaw describe him as a compassionate and generous individual, always putting the needs of others before his own. Despite the challenges he now faces, Shaw is known for his positive spirit and sense of humor, bringing joy to those around him. Donations are being collected at a local bank to support Shaw’s recovery journey.
As Shaw continues to undergo treatment and skin grafts to address his burns, the community has come together to raise funds for his medical care. The GoFundMe campaign has already garnered significant support, with donations pouring in to help Shaw on his path to healing. The road ahead may be long, but with the support of his loved ones and the community, Shaw remains determined to overcome this adversity and return to a full and healthy life.