The Temple Burn Center, located within a Level 1 trauma hospital, offers a range of services for burn patients, including emergency care, reconstructive surgery, and long-term rehabilitation. The center is recognized as one of the region’s only Verified Burn Centers.
A key component of its support system is the Phoenix Survivors Offering Assistance in Recovery (SOAR) program. This initiative connects current and former patients with survivors, their families, and professionals dedicated to helping those affected by burns.
“SOAR provides a space for survivors to connect with people who understand them,” said Melissa Loughran, MSN, RN, NEA-BC, Director of Nursing and Burn Operations at the Temple Burn Center. “They form relationships with members with similar experiences and are supported as they reintegrate into society.”
The SOAR program at Temple includes 10 Peer Supporters—survivors trained to assist patients individually throughout their recovery process. These supporters participate in monthly virtual meetings and quarterly community events such as mindfulness days, outings to Phillies games, and an annual holiday party.
“These events keep survivors connected to the Temple Burn Center community and help them stay engaged as they move through recovery,” Loughran said. “We also provide opportunities for survivors to volunteer within the broader Temple community, including serving on the Patient Family Advisory and Safety Councils and participating in Patient Experience events. By focusing on all they can contribute, we empower survivors and help build their self-worth.”
Loughran emphasized that supporting survivors beyond medical treatment distinguishes the center’s approach: “That emphasis on the human element of burn care—on supporting survivors as people, not just patients—is what sets the Temple Burn Center apart,” she said. “It’s why we have such a robust community of survivors, including many patients from out of state. At this year’s holiday party, one of our survivors’ family members shared, ‘If you go to any other health system, they’re not able to reach your level. You’ve set the bar at the Temple Burn Center.’”
The SOAR peer support group meets virtually every second Thursday each month. Those interested in joining or referring someone can contact [email protected].
