AMARILLO, TEXAS -- The sacrifice of one brave woman five years ago has led to the increase of more than 200 percent of volunteer fire fighters -- all made possible by the creation of the Kathy Ryan Rural Fire and Rescue Endowment Fund.

"This has been a huge privilege. I can't even describe how humbling it is to be able to be a benefit to the community with this much impact. It certainly makes our mothers sacrifice a lot easier to look at," said Pamela Ayers, daughter of Kathy Ryan.

Ryan died in the wildfires of 2006 while attempting to help her neighbors escape. A fund in her name helped create the Top of Texas Fire Academy, and its goal is to educate firefighters and volunteers.

"Anything that comes into 911, outside of what they cover, the fire service is expected to cover it whether it be an accident, whether it be a flood or any type of rescue-type situation. Those are usually put on our plate and its very important for us to be able to do all of those things," said Ron Antalek, Top of Texas Academy Founder.

The first class to graduate from the Top of Texas Fire Academy happened on March 12.

There were 93 graduates and 67 instructors -- all thanks to the fire and rescue endowment fund.