Injured city worker continues to improve, transferred to rehab

A city of Yuma employee seriously injured last week when a large cactus fell on him continues to recover and has been transferred to Yuma Rehabilitation Hospital.

There, William "Billy" Mason and his wife, Felisha, were presented Friday afternoon with donations and cards collected from his fellow employees during this week's "Pass the Hat" city collection drive.

Mason, a water distribution technician with the city's Utilities Department, was injured early the morning of June 19 while working with a utilities crew. They had responded to an emergency water leak in the Del Oro Estates subdivision.

A 16-foot saguaro from a nearby property fell, striking him while he was working. Mason suffered multiple injuries, particularly to his back and legs, and was in intensive care for several days at Yuma Regional Medical Center.

The cause of the accident is still under investigation, city officials said Friday.

Felisha Mason told the Yuma Sun that her husband is improving every day and is now able to walk short distances with the assistance of a walker.

“Everyday he is getting better, praise God!” she said. “We are still very grateful for progress so far and appreciate the continued prayers and support.”

In addition to this week's collection drive, the city is holding an internal fund-raising luncheon for Mason in July.

Also, cards and letters of support can either be dropped off or mailed to Yuma City Hall, One City Plaza, Yuma, AZ 85364: Attention Mason Family.

“Billy is grateful for all the visitors and special thoughts that have been passed along to him,” said Beatrice Dorries, utility systems manager for the Utilities Department. “I'm sure this afternoon he will be overwhelmed by the generosity and support from his city brothers and sisters. City employees are well known for their compassion, concern and encouragement, stepping up whenever a fellow employee is in need. This time was no exception.”

In addition, Felisha Mason said, her husband's supervisor brought a donation from the Elks, her co-workers provided meals while her in-laws were in Yuma, and Oasis Church has been providing assistance to the Masons, who are members.

“Our co-workers have gone above and beyond in offering to help with household choirs and meals,” said Felisha Mason. “We feel very blessed for the prayers and offers.”

She said that her husband commented that the community's outpouring of support and concern has been an eye-opener. “He expressed as soon as he is able he wants to give back to the community.”

Joyce Lobeck can be reached at jlobeck@yumasun.com or 539-6853. Find her on Facebook at www.facebook.com/YSJoyceLobeck or on Twitter at @YSJoyceLobeck.