MANSFIELD-- A Washington Township firefighter who lost both legs after an on the job accident received a warm welcome home Friday. 

45-year-old Joe Tadijanac has been in the hospital for more than a month following an on the job accident.  Tadijanac was responding to a fire when he was pinned in-between two trucks. 

Despite undergoing a double amputation, he was determined to make it back home in time for his son's birthday.  He did. 

"He must've gone thru I would say hell to get to this point.  And it's just unbelievable that he's coming home already," said Joe's mom, Barbara Tadijanac.

Dozens of friends and neighbors filled his front lawn.  He was escorted in by firefighters from several different departments and was greeting by cheers and applause.  Joe told the crowd "it's good to get home finally." 

The family says the support they've received has made all the difference. 

His son, Zach says his dad coming home was "the best birthday gift ever."

Neighbors have organized fundraisers for Joe to help with his recovery. 

On August 18th there will be a silent auction and dinner at Lexington High School.  The event runs from 4 p.m. - 7 p.m.

There is also an online fund set up for Joe on Indiegogo, you can visit the page by clicking here.

WKYC-TV