
Story behind firefighter photo that moved South Okanagan residents made clearer
SOUTH OKANAGAN – Jessica Mayhew’s photo of South Okanagan firefighters standing together in what appeared to be prayer has now been viewed thousands of times and prompted an emotional outpouring from the community.
It’s only fitting, considering how she felt when she took the shot.
“I was quite emotional when taking the photo as these men and women are risking their lives for strangers, people they don’t know,” said Mayhew, who lives in Alberta now, but grew up in the area.
“They are working double shifts, triple shifts, relentlessly in an effort to protect our homes and the homes of our families. It was so heartwarming to see the crew.”
While it looked like the group was standing in prayer, it wasn’t until the photo went viral that the story of that moment became clear.
Naramata Fire Chief Tony Travao took to Facebook to explain that members of the Merritt, Naramata, Big White, Keremeos fire departments along with two BC Wildfire crews were together in that moment.
“A lovely lady that stopped to thank us on the side of the road,” he said. “She asked if it would be OK to say a prayer with her. A very awesome moment indeed."
Mayhew said that she saw the woman, through didn’t understand her role until Travao cleared it up.
”I am so thankful to have been able to share it with everyone. It is very humbling,” she said.
“The reaction has been overwhelming. It fills my heart to see the outpouring of response. I think often times the citizens are not able to personally thank the crews and this photo gave them an opportunity to reach out, to give thanks and blessings.”
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