Menlo Park Fire Protection District Chief Harold Schapelhouman still unable to walk after falling off ladder He has worked for the department for more than 30 years, which makes him eligible for retirement.
SAN JOSE, Calif. — A fire chief remains in a wheelchair and unable to walk two months after falling off a ladder at his home.
Mercury News reported that Menlo Park Fire Protection District Chief Harold Schapelhouman was doing yard work at his San Jose home May 11 when he tumbled off the ladder and landed on the ground. Chief Schapelhouman was taken to a hospital and underwent an 11-hour back surgery, according to the report.
Chief Schapelhouman has worked for the department for more than 30 years, which makes him eligible for retirement, according to the report.
"His life has changed. Clearly he's got a lot of things to think about, if he's going to return or if he's going to retire," interim Fire Chief Douglas Sporleder said. "Although I would say he's not considering retirement, he told me his goal is to come back."
The fire district board will be choosing another interim chief next month since Sporleder’s contract expires at the end of August, according to the report.
"The board will make a decision to bring in another interim chief ... or do a search to replace Harold if in fact that becomes necessary," Sporleder said
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