As part of our Character Education program at ILCS, we are celebrating Courage in the month of October. This morning, we learned of an extraordinary display of courage and bravery by one of our high school students on Monday, October 9th.
ILCS Senior, Joey Brouthers, was on his way to work around 5:50 am that Monday morning. As he approached Long Lake, he noticed a bright light over the hill. Passing by Hoss' store, he spotted a house fully consumed by flames. Without hesitation, Joey felt compelled to stop and offer assistance. He noticed a woman standing on the sidewalk, and it appeared that no one had yet called 911, so Joey promptly dialed the emergency number. It was Joey's first time calling 911, and he admitted it was a bit nerve-wracking.
Soon after, a woman inside the burning building shouted that their only escape route was also on fire. A neighbor who had rushed over to help retrieved a ladder from his home. With Joey's support, the family safely made their way onto the roof, and together they ensured the children, parents, and pets were out of harm's way. Once everyone was secure, Joey left to continue on to work.
Joey initially wrestled with the decision to stop when he first saw the glowing flames, but when he realized it was a structure fire, he knew he couldn't simply drive by. He later reflected, "You don't realize the shock you go into when it is your own home on fire." Joey expressed his gratitude for stopping and being able to provide assistance.
The Merriam-Webster dictionary defines courage as "mental or moral strength to venture, persevere, and withstand danger, fear, or difficulty." Joey exemplifies this definition. It took remarkable courage and bravery to stop and assist during the fire. Joey remained humble about the situation, insisting that it was simply the right thing to do. Joey embodies the spirit of courage.