Many of you have been asking if there's anything you can do to help Matthew and I (and Henry) as we recover from the physical, emotional, and financial damage caused by Helene.

Sam was out of town when the storm hit, leaving Matthew and the cat with no power, water, or cell service—and no car. As soon as we were able, we loaded up Rebecca's car with as much water, gas cans, and groceries as we could carry, and drove to Weaverville via the only clear route, as interstate 40 has been closed indefinitely.

After dropping off supplies to some very grateful, unshowered friends, and cruising through an apocalyptic scene with miles-long lines for gas, no working traffic lights, and handwritten signs sharing the latest updates, we turned around and drove back to Rebecca's—a four-hour drive that would normally take two.

We are now all safe and surrounded by family at my sister and brother-in-law's house in Huntersville, NC, doing our best to get grounded and figure out next steps.

One of the biggest uncertainties right now is our finances. Matthew has a telehealth-only psychotherapy practice, and as of this writing has only been able to contact a small portion of his clientele (most of whom also live in the greater Asheville area). Sam's business is more flexible, but the day-to-day logistics and trauma have hindered her productivity as well.

The one thing that would help us the most is to know that our basic living expenses are covered for October as we navigate how we can support the rebuilding efforts in Asheville and the greater WNC area, whether that's offering pro bono therapy sessions, or taking time to help deliver food and water to the areas most affected.

Asking for this kind of support was a difficult decision for us, because there are droves of people in worse shape than we are.

We are only sharing this GoFundMe with close friends and family and ask that you also use discretion if you choose to share it with your network. There are several major relief efforts underway that deserve priority.

These funds will go toward things like:

Thank you.