LAKEVILLE — A man seriously injured in a cooking fire in Lakeville Nov. 29 is recovering as his family reaches out to thank the fire department for their efforts and community members for offering support.

Steve Forrester received significant burns in a flash fire that occurred while the family was preparing a traditional Portuguese chouriço dish, the Lakeville Fire Department reported. He was visiting from Pennsylvania to spend Thanksgiving with family at the time of the fire.

“I am so grateful that everyone who was there did exactly what they should. They likely saved Steve’s life,’’ his wife Pam Forrester reported on social media.

After being severely burned, Forrester was transported by helicopter to Rhode Island Hospital, where he spent weeks receiving "aggressive wound treatment,’’ including skin grafts, the department reported.

Steve Forrester has had two surgeries since the burn accident, Pam Forrester said. Medical personnel were able to graft his skin as well as use artificial coverings on his more severe burns.

He recently returned to his home state of Pennsylvania and is receiving care at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center in Pittsburgh. 

His rehabilitation journey is ongoing, Pam Forrester reports, and he faces “a long recovery.’’

But he is facing his challenges with determination, she said. “His attitude has been incredible. His dedication to getting back to our life is nothing short of inspiring.’’

Although his recovery is ongoing, the emotional impact of the experience remains, the fire department reported. 

“The incident has proven to be mentally traumatic to all who were present that day. The family is still struggling to shake the image of loved ones engulfed in flames.’’

Steve Forrester is looking to use this trauma to help others, the department reported. 

As a mental health professional at Western Psychiatric Institute and Clinic in Pittsburgh, he is using his traumatic experience to benefit others going through trauma of their own, the department reported. 

He reports that “he is better positioned to relate with, connect with, and help those in his care because of what he has and continues to experience.’’

As she supports her husband on his journey to recovery, Pam Forrester thanked the Lakeville Fire Department.

“They responded quickly and with such professionalism, and compassion. They helped keep us as calm as they cared for the people we loved. As I watched them take Steve away to the spot where he would be picked up by the helicopter, I knew that he was receiving excellent care from people who were committed to making sure he had the best outcome possible.’’

Another victim of that day’s fire, Rayley Martin, received treatment at St. Luke’s Hospital and Hasbro Children’s Hospital for her burns.

Deputy Fire Chief Pamela Garant, who provided care to Rayley, reported that she was “amazed by her calm and controlled demeanor directly after the incident. Rayley expressed concern for the well-being of everyone around her and tried to minimize her own discomfort.’’

Rayley and other family members recently visited the Lakeville Fire station to bring gifts of cookies and words of thanks. 

“The beautiful family lifted our spirits and we couldn’t help but be proud of being able to assist the family during their time of need,’’ the department reported.

“Life can change quickly, and it often does,’’ Pam Forrester said. “We are overwhelmed by support, in a very good way. Please say a prayer and keep him in your thoughts as we navigate through this process.’’