Glasgow firefighter recovers from burn injuries with care at Skyline Burn Center

When Glasgow Fire Department firefighter Malcolm Dile responded to a house fire on April 10, his focus was on helping others. Within moments, conditions inside the home shifted, leading to serious burn injuries that required advanced care at TriStar Skyline Medical Center.

Dile was first treated at T.J. Regional Health before being transferred to the burn center at TriStar Skyline. He experienced burns to multiple areas of his body, including his neck, arms, leg, ears, sideburns, chin and hands. Most injuries were second-degree burns, with some areas at risk of progressing to third-degree burns.

After arriving at TriStar Skyline, Dile said the care team helped him feel at ease.

“Everyone was so nice, helpful and reassuring,” Dile said. “From the ER team to the burn specialists, they moved quickly and explained everything along the way.”

Dile underwent debridement surgery and received treatment that included skin substitute technology to support healing. Within weeks, he began to see steady progress and is now focused on returning to work.

“I can’t let this beat me,” Dile said. “I’m focused on healing and getting back to doing what I love.”

He credits God and the ability He has given the doctors and care team to treat him.

“Looking back at where I started, the progress in just a few weeks has been remarkable,” Dile said. “They gave me confidence from day one. You can tell this team truly knows what they are doing.”

The burn center at TriStar Skyline is part of a Level I trauma center and provides advanced care for patients across Middle Tennessee and the surrounding region, including first responders and those with complex burn injuries. The care team uses specialized treatments and technology to support recovery and rehabilitation. As part of HCA Healthcare, TriStar Skyline is connected to a broader network that shares knowledge and best practices to help deliver safe, high-quality care for every patient.

“Firefighters put their lives on the line every day to protect others,” said Tommy Tran, MD, burn surgeon at TriStar Skyline. “It’s an honor to care for heroes like Malcolm and support them through recovery.”

Today, Dile continues outpatient treatment and rehabilitation while working toward returning to the fire service.

“I’m grateful for everyone who helped me,” Dile said. “From the firefighters beside me that day to the medical teams who took care of me afterward. I couldn’t have gotten through this alone.”