By Carol Wyatt
Communities across the Florida Panhandle are coming together to rally behind Noah Collins, a Chipley resident and South Walton Fire District firefighter/EMT who sustained traumatic head and leg injuries after a motor vehicle crash.
Officials say that Collins was on his way to begin his shift Monday, Nov. 29, when he was involved in a car crash. Collins exited his vehicle and was rendering aid to the other driver when he was struck by another vehicle.
Collins was lifeflighted to an area hospital and has since undergone multiple surgeries. He is now listed in serious but stable condition.
“The severity and long-term prognosis of Noah’s injuries remain uncertain, but he has been slowly showing signs of improvement,” said his grandfather, Richard L. Williams. “One doctor called him a miracle.”
Collin’s fellow firefighters say he is known for his strong work ethic – and that they feel it is that same determination that will help see him through.
“I first met Noah and his father [Brad Collins] at the 2019 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb in Panama City Beach,” said friend and co-worker, Training Lt. Travis Cook. “Noah and I were both probationary firefighters at Walton County Fire Rescue. I saw Noah push through the challenging stair climb that day. Noah puts 110 percent into anything he sets out to accomplish. I have no doubt he will apply the same work ethic into getting better. We are constantly praying for Noah, his family, and his work family.”
An account has been established at One Florida Bank in Chipley for anyone wishing to assist with helping offset medical and travel expenses for Collins and his family.
KINSLEY COOK 
GARRETT VALCOURT