When thinking of a superhero, what comes to mind?

Maybe it’s the fictional characters in comics and films.

But what about the people who dedicate their lives to saving others, such as doctors, firefighters, and police officers?

A true superhero is someone that people can look up to and be inspired by, and junior Josh Truax is someone who fits this description perfectly. 

Not only is Truax an inspiration to those around him, but he is also an individual with a challenging past that many may not think of due to his fascinating ambition.

On March 25, 2002, there was a fire at Truax’s home.

Seventy percent of his body was burned, with his face and hands suffering the most damage.

His parents were told that their son probably would not live more than another day and, if he did, he would lose his hands and ears.

But Truax had other plans in mind.

He outlived the traumatic experience.

Truax underwent several surgeries, with his most recent being in November 2018.

But it wasn’t until December 29 that Truax met the individuals who had saved his life, and it was a total surprise.

Mr. Corey Fisher and Mrs. Annette Orth, both staff members, made this possible for Truax at a Flint Firebirds game.

At the game, Truax met Mr. Rico Phillips, firefighter, and two other first responders who had contributed to saving his life so many years ago.

Truax was nominated a superhero to be acknowledged at the game.

“It was awesome to meet them. They are all very nice guys,” Truax said. “My plan is to become a firefighter myself in the future. I’ve always wanted to give back.”

Many friends and family members came to the game in support of Truax, including his sister, sophomore Angel Truax.

“Josh is such a positive person with a huge heart,” Angel said. “He always has a smile on his face even with all that he has been through. When people think he is not capable of doing something, he always proves them wrong and pushes harder.”

Although Truax still struggles with pain in his hands, he never uses the pain as an excuse to give up.

In addition to the house fire, Truax lost his father three years ago and his mother is now currently fighting her own health crisis.

“My mother is my inspiration,” Truax said. “Even through our most difficult times, she is always cheering me on and she is always there for me. She wouldn’t let me do anything bad even if I had the free time.”

Having to deal with such devastating situations is not an easy thing to handle, but Truax is determined to excel.

Truax is a member of the Flint Metro League Leadership Council and is an Academic All-League athlete.

He is also part of the baseball and powerlifting teams, and is an All-State powerlifter.

“I enjoy sports, especially football and baseball,” Truax said. “I love lifting weights with the other guys.”

In addition, Truax is a two-way starter for the football team, earning All-League honors as a defensive tackle.

Truax’s football teammates named him team captain.

Junior Ashtyn Cohoon said Truax focuses on what needs to be done.

“Josh has the strongest work ethic on the team,”  Cohoon said. “He never complains and always gets his job done.”

Many classmates look up to Truax, including the staff members that work with him every day.

Junior Brandon Fisher said he and Truax are close, like family.

“Josh inspires me to be the best I can be,” Fisher said. “He pushes me to be better every day, not only in school but on the field as well. He is like a brother to me.”

What really is a superhero?

Many would say Truax is a superhero, a person that inspires others to save themselves and not give up.