Welcome to Burn Survivors of New England

Burn Survivors of New England (BSONE) was founded by burn survivors George Pessotti and David Vogel. Initially operating as an all-volunteer organization, it evolved into a 501(c)(3) nonprofit in 2014. For many years before formalizing as a nonprofit, BSONE functioned as an informal network led by George, whose dedication to supporting burn survivors shaped the organization’s foundation.

George, who sustained severe burns in 1979, experienced the transformative power of peer support when Alan Breslau, founder of the Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors, visited him in the hospital. Alan, who himself survived extensive burns from a 1963 commercial airliner crash, had established the Phoenix Society in 1977 as one of the first burn support organizations in the United States. This encounter deeply inspired George, motivating him to dedicate his life to supporting fellow survivors. He joined Alan’s network, eventually becoming the second President of the Phoenix Society and playing a pivotal role in launching the World Burn Congress, a gathering that continues to unite and inspire burn survivors globally.

For decades, George led a monthly support group for burn survivors and personally visited countless burn patients in Boston hospitals, sharing his story to inspire hope. In addition to providing emotional support, he worked tirelessly to raise funds for scholarships that enabled survivors to attend the World Burn Congress. Through events like golf tournaments and fundraising dinners, George used his own resources, along with support from friends, family, and fellow survivors, to build a grassroots movement that fostered a deeply personal and connected community for burn survivors across New England.

In 2004, after sustaining severe burns in a house fire, David joined George’s support group. Struggling to rebuild his life after months of intensive care and rehabilitation, he too discovered the transformative power of peer support. The guidance and encouragement from fellow survivors provided practical tools, emotional connections, and renewed hope. David found purpose in supporting George’s efforts and mentoring other survivors, which became a vital part of his own recovery.

As more individuals began surviving severe burns that once were fatal, the demand for peer support grew. By 2005, a core group of dedicated individuals had formed around George and David to expand the organization’s reach. This led to the first fundraising walk in 2006, a three-mile loop along the Charles River in Boston that brought together survivors, families, and supporters. Initially, Burn Survivors of New England operated under the umbrella of the Phoenix Society. As the Phoenix Society evolved into a more structured national organization, BSONE transitioned to become an independent nonprofit to better serve the needs of local burn survivors and families maintaining its focus on providing scholarships and support.

In 2014, BSONE achieved 501(c)(3) nonprofit status. The transition allowed the organization to strengthen its connections with hospitals, research groups, and the burn survivor community. Guided by its founding principles and the dedication of its leadership, BSONE continues to grow and provide vital resources for burn survivors across New England. Over time, as the responsibilities of running the organization grew, new leadership emerged. Today, Burn Survivors of New England remains true to its roots, continuing the monthly support group meetings, fundraising for World Burn Congress scholarships, and providing peer support to burn survivors and their families. The organization’s mission is rooted in the belief that the shared experiences of survivors offer unparalleled strength, connection, and hope—a legacy of support that George and David proudly built together.