Positivity: 9/11 Survivor and Wife Turn Miracle into Ministry

Their website, facethefire.org, tells the inspiring story of recovery and renewal:

Lt. Col. (Ret.) Brian Birdwell is a survivor of the terrorists’ attacks on September 11, 2001. After hijacked American Airlines Flight 77 collided into the Pentagon, Birdwell was thrown to the ground and engulfed in flames. Of the burns that consumed 60 percent of his body, nearly half were third degree, resulting in the need for 30+ operations. Brian’s recovery has been truly remarkable and spiritually he is stronger than ever before. Together, he and his wife, Mel, share that spiritual strength and encouragement with other burn survivors and their families through the message of Christ’s love and sovereignty.

Brian and his wife, Mel, communicate a compelling message of enduring hope, unwavering faith, undying patriotism and unconditional love. They welcome the opportunity to address you and your group and are willing to tailor their message for your specific needs. With honesty and insight, the Birdwells will encourage, inspire and motivate change in the hearts of those you desire to reach.

Mission Statement

Face the Fire exists for the purpose of glorifying Jesus Christ. We hope to do this by helping burn survivors, wounded servicemen and women, their families and the medical facilities that specialize in their care. Because we experienced the physical, emotional and spiritual challenges facing survivors of these tragedies, the organization seeks to minister by providing encouragement, hope and financial assistance when needed.

The end of the history page has more:

The ministry has provided support for many burn survivors, including a Washington, D.C. firefighter severely burned on the job; two children, ages four and five, burned in an explosion; and a 12-year-old boy, burned on more than 80 percent of his body, who was dragged from the basement of his home by his 9-year-old brother to the fire-extinguishing snow outside. The ministry has also assisted several wounded at Brooke Army Medical Center.

Face the Fire Ministries already has helped to make life easier for many burn survivors, wounded servicemen and women and their families. Brian and Mel Birdwell continue to provide comfort and support, both mental and financial, “as Christ has comforted us.”

The Birdsalls have a book, “Refined by Fire: A Family’s Triumph of Love and Faith.”

News about Birdsall’s latest free talk is here.