October 28 was a terrible day for the beautiful island of Jamaica. Hurricane Melissa hit the island with such ferocity that meteorologists are calling it the "strongest hurricane on record!"

As many of you know, all of my husband's family lives there. Although the majority of them were incredibly blessed to be safe and their homes spared from major damage, some relatives suffered loss and their situation is dire. Moreover, ALL of their lives have been affected and changed forever.

It is hard to picture the beautiful and lush areas where you could simply reach for a mango, avocado, ackee, or breadfruit. There is NOTHING there now! Not one fruit tree, not sugar canes, not bamboo trees, nothing! I heard on NPR that bees were starving and food from the US had to be delivered.

All of the plantations, the food industry, and local agriculture have been decimated. Their power plants, sanitation plants, schools, hospitals, and infrastructure at large have been damaged. Their jobs are halted.

I'm appealing to your generosity and spirit of cooperation to help us send some money for our family there. Aunty Girly lost her home, Aunty Marcia suffered flooding inside her house. None of them can go back to work because most of the daily activities on the island have stopped. Everyone who is able is clearing roads and rubble. The markets are empty and what's available is expensive.

We know the island will come back and be stronger than ever, but it will take time and lots of resources. Please help us help our family and be part of Jamaica's recovery!!!