Meet Leslie Schwartz

Written on June 10, 2021

Leslie Schwartz was in the wrong place at the wrong time. 

Leslie’s journey began in 1989 when she was in Israel partaking in a Memorial Day ceremony. A torch was lit and exploded, causing Leslie to sustain burns on 25% of her body and spend seven weeks in the hospital. Leslie was also nine months pregnant at the time and gave birth to her daughter just one week in the burn unit.  

The following year, Leslie returned to her home in Denver Colorado as a single mom with four children. She had a few follow up surgeries and appointments, but ultimately put her healing on hold while she cared for her kids. 

Fast forward to the end of 2020, Leslie became reconnected with the burn community after her grandson sustained burns on his hands. Her daughter and son-in-law took him to the nearby children’s hospital where they shared Leslie’s story with the social worker. A few days later, the social worker reached out to Leslie and told her about Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors. 

I knew I was not alone in a burn community, but I didn’t know nor did I have time to pursue any support while trying to raise four kids.”

After speaking with the social worker, Leslie googled Phoenix Society and immediately signed up for our monthly newsletter. A few weeks later, she joined and participated in Put the Move in Movement 5k! Shortly after, she signed up and joined Phoenix World Burn Congress: Engage. Along with joining Phoenix WBC: Engage live, Leslie also enjoys watching sessions on-demand while she babysits her grandkids twice a week. One event she made sure to join live was Open Mic.  

I finally raised my hand and shared my story for the first time. Thirty-two years later, I am grateful for the opportunity to join and participate with other people with similar journeys.”

Save the Date  

Our 33rd annual Phoenix World Burn Congress will be held virtually October 22 – 24, 2021.  Find other local and virtual events by visiting our Community Calendar.