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| Mark Taft |
Crews were able to reach him and safely bring him down, and he was transported to Emmanuel Burn Center, Portland, Oregon, having suffered severe burns from his neck to his feet.
According to family friend Judy Everhart, doctors are worried that they may have to amputate his index fingers and are still assessing the extent of his internal injuries. Though he is conscious and talking, she said it's expected that he will be hospitalized for at least eight weeks.
Details on the accident are sketchy; Mark doesn't remember much. Central Lincoln PUD is investigating the first serious injury accident they've had in memory.
After getting the news, John and Jan drove all night to Portland, arriving Friday morning.
"He's hanging in there," John said. "He has a long recovery ahead of him, but he's tough. He's a fighter, and he's determined to recover."
Mark's already undergone two surgeries since the accident and he's facing several more, and it's unknown as yet how lasting his injuries will be.
"He's in a lot of pain, but he has a positive attitude," John said. "He loves his job and what he was doing, but we don't know yet whether he'll be able to go back to it."
According to John, most of the energy from the jolt he took exited Mark's body through his arms and hands, where the damage is most extensive.
"He's in for a long haul," John said.
Those who'd like to send flowers, cards or encouragement can address them to Mark and Ieacia Taft, 3470 East Myrtle Loop, Florence, OR 97439.
"We'll be going back and forth," John said, "and we'll make sure Mark gets them."