Fire Recovery for Michelle and Alexis
Friends, family, loved ones, any and all that may have been led to read this story - I am reaching out to you on behalf of our dear friend Michelle Rhodes. You may know her personally, in acquaintance, you may not know her at all - but I ask when you finish reading her story, that if you feel compelled in any way, please act. No gift is too great - and it certainly is never too small.
On Tuesday, March 25th at approximately 3 am Michelle's next door neighbor carelessly flicked a lit cigarette into a plastic trash bin next to their duplex. The fire smoldered, eventually setting fire to Michelle's neighbor's side of the duplex. Just before 6 am, Michelle awoke to scratching noises in her attic. She smelled smoke and could hear stomping/commotion next door. As she looked outside of her window, she saw an orange glow in the reflection of the windows across the street. Frantically, Michelle ran outside where her neighbor met her with "Oh good, you're awake. There's a fire." As her neighbor continued his attempt in extinguishing the fire with a pitcher of water - an onlooker proceeded to call the fire department upon realization that Michelle's neighbor had yet to do so. Friends - she lost everything. What the fire did not consume, the smoke did. Neither Michelle nor her neighbor had renter's insurance, and even though Michelle is both innocent and a victim in this tragedy - she is still personally liable for her side of the duplex. For those of you who haven't had the blessing of knowing Michelle's heart - she will not sue her neighbor for his negligence that has left her with a complete loss of her home, her possessions, her home business, and the overwhelming task that she and her daughter Alexis have been forced to embark on as they rebuild and recover.
This account has been established in effort for those whose hearts lead them to support Michelle and Alexis as they start over - with an open avenue to do so. Please understand - no gift is too small! If you cannot donate at this moment - please share Michelle's story on Facebook, Twitter, by email. Every effort lovingly made in their recovery is so greatly and deeply appreciated. If you have any questions or would like additional information on how you can help Michelle and Alexis' recovery you can contact me at [email redacted] or you can find me on Facebook Erin Hammond-Launius.
Arkansas community - I'm speaking to you! Please help our fellow Arkansan artist - you may know Michelle and are just unaware that you are currently wearing her art. Michelle is the owner/designer of Myrrh Jewelry. You can find her pieces in boutiques in Central and Northern Arkansas, Arizona, Oklahoma, Etsy and at Myrrh Jewelry on Facebook. Please, find it in your heart to donate and/or share her story. The more that read her story, the better. Thank you and stay blessed.
