Conway firefighter Danny Collins suffered an embolism while training in a dive class in Hot Springs and has been transported to Shreveport for treatment.
Conway Fire Chief Bart Castleberry said Collins was taking part in dive training class Saturday and was in about 20 feet of water performing a search grid task with fellow firefighter Ty Ledbetter. Ledbetter said he felt a tug on his line and found that Collins had become tangled. Both worked on fixing the line and emerging to the surface when Collins had problems breathing.
"It was a blessing that the doctor in Hot Springs had seen this kind of injury before and knew what to do," Castleberry said. "He knew what type of brain injury this is."
Collins was able to see his wife, Brandi before being airlifted to Shreveport for treatment. His family and a liaison from the fire department are now in Shreveport with Collins. Castleberry said he will spend about a week in ICU, spending time in a hyperbaric chamber for his injuries.
"Collins is a seasoned firefighter and a good man," Castleberry said. "Our thoughts and prayers are with him and his family."

Comments (7)
Add commentPrayers for Danny & his family
And wishes for a quick recovery! Thanks for the work you do to protect all of us! May God continue to protect you!
So sad
I pray for a speedy recovery of Firefighter Collins and comfort for his family in this time of concern.
Prayers....
For Danny Collins and his team of Doctors!
Our prayers
God be with Danny and his family.
Prayers for his family
Prayers for his family
Prayers lifted for this local
Prayers lifted for this local Hero and his family!! May God guide his health care heroes to provide him with the best care and enable a speedy and full recovery.
Thank you and God Bless
Prayers for Danny and his family, including a speedy recovering and no lasting effects. You are appreciated, Sir.