Crete firefighter injured in October wildfires returns home after lengthy recovery

CRETE, NE — After nearly 100 days in hospitals and rehab facilities, Dr. Brad Elder is home. 

The Crete volunteer firefighter was discharged from the Lincoln hospital he had been since being severely injured while battling wildfires in the area last October. 

Much of the Crete Volunteer Fire and Rescue fleet and several of its members met Elder at the Sid Dillon dealership on the north edge of town. They then gave him a hero's welcome home, sounding their sirens and lighting up in celebration while driving him through town. 

The welcome home parade of sorts took Elder through the east part of town and Doane University, where he works, and eventually his house near campus. Several people throughout Doane's campus lined the roads to cheer Elder on as he was escorted home.

Friday brings to an end a 97-day stay in hospitals and rehabilitation in Lincoln. 

Crete Volunteer Fire and Rescue and Doane University are holding a benefit for Elder on Feb. 4, from 1-6 p.m. at the Haddix Center to raise money and help him cover medical expenses. 

For those who want to donate but cannot attend, a GoFundMe has been set up for Elder as well. To date, it has raised nearly $30,000.