Dad Sustains Third-Degree Burns to More Than 60% of His Body After Trimming Tree Near Power Line

NEED TO KNOW

• Steve Anderson sustained third-degree burns to 60% to 70% of his body while trimming a tree near a power line on April 18

• The dad of three is now “facing a long and difficult road ahead, including multiple surgeries and extensive recovery,” according to a friend

• Anderson is known for his dedication to children's ministry and is described by a family friend as a “very fun loving person”

An Oklahoma dad of three is recovering after he was seriously injured in a tree trimming accident.

Steve Anderson was trimming a tree near a power line with his 17-year-old son on Saturday, April 18, when the accident occurred, according to Fox affiliate KOKI .

The Tulsa dad was transported to the ICU Burn Center for treatment, and reportedly sustained third-degree burns to 60% to 70% of his body.

“It is a day-by-day process, and we are trusting God for His plan in Steven's life,” said friend Jeff Dar, who started a GoFundMe for his friend's family following the accident.

Harrell Kendrick, Anderson's friend of 33 years, said Anderson owns his own tree trimming business and is the sole provider for his wife and three sons, according to KOKI .

Anderson is known at Eastland Baptist Church for his dedication to children's ministry, as well as his "green thumb” and sense of adventure, the outlet reported.

Sarah Justice, a family friend, described Anderson as a “very fun loving person” who brings “a lot of excitement to the room.”

Anderson is now “facing a long and difficult road ahead, including multiple surgeries and extensive recovery,” Dar wrote on GoFundMe.

In an update shared via GoFundMe on Sunday, April 26, Dar said Anderson “is struggling with bleeding and has needed several blood transfusions.”

Anderson was expected to have his third procedure and begin dialysis on Monday, April 27, according to Dar.

Meanwhile, Anderson's family is marking major life milestones as he continues to recover, according to KOKI.

Justice said Steve's oldest son celebrated his 18th birthday at the hospital and is set to graduate from high school in the coming days.

Kendrick said hospital bills are “piling up” as the dad receives treatment for his injuries, according to KOKI. Dar said Steve's family is facing “a big, financial burden” as a result of the hospital bills.

“The costs of medical care, surgeries, and ongoing recovery are overwhelming,” Dar said on GoFundMe, adding that Steve's family “is doing everything they can to support Steve through this unimaginable time.”

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More than $27,000 has been raised through the GoFundMe as of Tuesday, April 28.

Speaking on behalf of Steve's family, Dar thanked those who have offered prayers and financial support following the accident.

“We have been overwhelmed by the outpouring of love to our family,” Dar said.

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