Last night, very close family friends experienced a devastating house fire that has left Chrissy, her brother Paul, and her son Christopher displaced from their home. While we are incredibly grateful that everyone made it out safely, including their beloved pets, the house is currently uninhabitable and they are facing an uncertain road ahead.
The past few years have already brought more than their share of challenges. After falling behind on property taxes, the family went through a difficult process in which the town took ownership of the home. Through determination, sacrifice, and being able to pull from Paul’s retirement , they entered into an agreement, paid the taxes owed, and successfully had the deed returned to them.
During that same time, Paul's health took a tragic turn. He suffered a massive stroke, followed by a second stroke, and now requires assistance with many daily living tasks. Chrissy has been his primary caregiver, helping him navigate these life-changing challenges every day.
Many of you know Chrissy and know the strength and generosity she brings to others. Despite having a partial leg amputation herself and facing her own physical limitations, she has always been willing to help anyone in need. She is the kind of person who would give whatever she could and never hesitate to lend a helping hand.
After finally getting the house deeded back to them, Chrissy was in the process of reinstating homeowner's insurance. Unfortunately, the fire happened before coverage was put back in place.
Today, they are left without a home and are trying to figure out what comes next. They have contacted the American Red Cross and waiting to hear back and will be working with local resources and the town to explore every available option for assistance. However, the costs ahead will be significant.
We want to take a moment to express our deepest gratitude to the firefighters and emergency personnel who responded to the fire. Their professionalism, compassion, and quick actions were nothing short of phenomenal, and we cannot thank them enough for everything they did during the fire.
They are also incredibly grateful for the outpouring of support from friends, family, neighbors, and community members who have already reached out, sent prayers, shared kind words, and asked how they can help. Your support means more than you know to them and has been a source of comfort during an incredibly difficult time.
There have also been generous offers to donate household items and belongings to help the family replace what was lost. They are deeply thankful for every one of those offers. At this time, however, the family has nowhere to store donated items and has not yet been able to fully assess the condition of the home or determine what may be salvageable. As they get into the structure and learn more about the extent of the damage, we will provide updates and let everyone know what specific needs exist. Your patience, understanding, and support are greatly appreciated.
For now, the immediate need is helping the family navigate displacement, temporary to long term housing, daily living expenses, Paul's ongoing care needs, and the many unexpected costs that come with rebuilding after a tragedy like this.
Asking for help is never easy, but in times like these, communities come together to support one another. Any donation, no matter the amount, will make a meaningful difference. If you are unable to contribute financially, sharing this fundraiser with others would be greatly appreciated.
Most importantly, we are thankful that Chrissy, Paul, Christopher, and all of the animals survived this tragedy without injury. Material things can be repaired and rebuilt; lives cannot.
Thank you for your kindness, support, prayers, generosity, and for standing with this family as they begin the difficult journey ahead.
*some of the photos used are from the Campton-Thornton Fire Rescue Facebook post.
