Winter Garden – A local couple is on the road to a full recovery after a dramatic lightning strike on the West Orange Trail last week. Retired Colonel Aaron Walenga (USAF) and his wife, Clare, both teachers at Foundation Academy, said they are “healing and are on track for a full recovery” in a statement released Friday.
Rescue and medical care
Body‑camera footage released by the Orange County Sheriff’s Office shows an officer sprinting to the scene after a 911 caller reported that the couple’s umbrella had been struck and they were lying face‑down on the ground. The caller described the scene: “Their umbrella was struck by lightning, and then they were both on their face. He’s never been not breathing. She was blue.”
Other trail users performed CPR on Clare before emergency personnel arrived. The officer instructed Aaron, who was conscious but in pain, to “stay on your side” and reassured him that help was on the way.
Hospital treatment
Both Aaron and Clare were transported to Orlando Regional Medical Center. Dr. Jeff Lawrence, president of Foundation Academy, told WESH‑2 that the family’s biggest concern was Clare’s breathing. “We got news that they were going to be removing the breathing tube – and that’s a miracle,” he said.
After a brief stay in intensive care, the couple was moved to a regular ward where they began the recovery process. Their three children, who also attend Foundation Academy, have been kept out of the hospital to protect them from infection and to give the parents privacy.
Faith and gratitude
In their public statement, the Walengas emphasized their gratitude to God and to the four Good Samaritans, first responders and medical staff who saved their lives. “First and foremost, we thank God for the miracles He has allowed us to experience. Our faith in Jesus Christ sustains us,” the statement read.
The couple also expressed sympathy for those remembering the September 11 attacks and for victims of other unexpected tragedies, noting how the incident reminded them of life’s fragility.
Community response
Since the incident, the Winter Garden community has rallied around the family, sending meals, prayers and encouraging messages. Local churches have organized prayer chains, and neighbors have offered to help with childcare and household chores while the Walengas focus on healing.
Police officials praised the quick actions of the trail users, calling the incident a reminder of the importance of community vigilance and preparedness. “The willingness of ordinary citizens to step in saved lives today,” said Officer Mark Daniels.
Safety reminder
Officials reminded residents that Florida’s summer thunderstorms can produce dangerous lightning. They advised hikers to seek shelter in a building or vehicle at the first sign of a storm, avoid open fields, and stay away from tall objects such as trees or metal poles.
The Walengas plan to share more of their story once they are fully recovered, hoping their experience will encourage others to trust in faith, community and the dedication of first responders.
Original reporting: WESH Orlando — read the source article.
