Vancouver Firefighter in Recovery Overseas Following Leg Amputation from Flesh-Eating Infection
An assistant fire chief with Vancouver Fire Rescue Services is recovering in a Hong Kong hospital after contracting an infection commonly known as flesh-eating disease, which led to the amputation of part of his leg during a family vacation.
Vancouver Fire Chief Karen Fry expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support for Christopher Won, describing him as “one of the strongest, most resilient and committed people we know.”
Mr. Won’s partner, Marie Hui, shared a picture of him in a hospital bed with a bouquet of flowers sent by Vancouver Mayor Ken Sim and city councillors.
In her post, Ms. Hui mentioned that Mr. Won faced life-threatening situations during surgeries to amputate his leg, but both he and the doctors fought hard to save him from necrotizing fasciitis.
She added that the family was waiting for Mr. Won to be cleared for travel so they could return home.
Ms. Hui described how a joyful vacation turned into a challenging hospital situation, leaving Mr. Won hospitalized and their family stranded without being able to fly back to Vancouver.
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Ms. Hui also shared a message from Mr. Won, expressing his gratitude for the overwhelming support and his eagerness to come home and thank everyone in person.
A fundraising page created by a family friend mentions Mr. Won’s more than 20-year career with the city and Ms. Hui’s role as a beloved anthem singer for various sports teams including the Vancouver Canucks, BC Lions, and Vancouver Whitecaps.
