Fiebelkorn family settling into new place

The Fiebelkorn family has been making their way through 2020 one step at a time. For Quenten, most of those steps have been taken with the help of a loving family and a supportive network of healthcare providers.

Quenten was airlifted to Regions Hospital Burn Center in St. Paul on January 8 after his family's McClusky, N.D. home burned to the ground. His injuries were sustained in an attempt to rescue his wife and daughter from the flames. His 4-year-old son Gaige did not survive.

The entire family was treated for burns, but Quenten undoubtedly had the greatest amount of recovery ahead.

Quenten grew up in New Rockford and is the son of Claudette Carswell. His sister, Jennifer Quam, set up a fundraiser through Facebook, which allowed extended friends and family the opportunity to offer support in this difficult time and keep up to date on Quenten's progress.

In a matter of two and a half months, Quenten endured a number of surgeries to treat his injuries. By the middle of March, Quenten had developed a serious wide-spread infection, and Quam took to Facebook to rally the supporters. 

"They talked to us about the aggressive medication we are starting in hopes to get rid of the fungal infection that is taking a toll on his body. With that said I need everyone to pray that it will get rid of it because this is the last medication to try to take control over the infection," Quam wrote. "He is still on the ventilator not because his lungs are bad but because his body is so tired from fighting he needs extra help to keep his energy."

From antibiotics and surgeries to physical therapy and rehabilitation, Quenten slowly walked the road to recovery. In late June, he finally "made it home" with his wife and daughter to a new apartment in Jamestown.

A funeral service was held July 10 for 4-year-old Gaige, giving Quenten the opportunity to attend and say goodbye to his young son. Amid the grief, there is still work ahead for the family. As Quenten travels for many doctor visits and surgeries ahead, he and his family will need to rebuild their lives and furnish a new place.

Quam explained on Facebook, "We are still hoping to buy many other things...to make life easy on him. Like a shower chair and maybe a wheelchair because he gets tired real easy and he wants to go outside for walks."

On Thursday, July 16, Miller's Fresh Foods hosted a fundraiser lunch. Patrons could choose seasoned beef burgers, old fashioned wieners or cheddarwurst with chips, watermelon and a beverage for a free will donation. 100% of the donations were donated to the Fiebelkorn family.

If you would like to make a donation, you can send checks to Gate City Bank/Quenten Fiebelkorn Family, 309 2nd Avenue SW, Jamestown, ND 58401.