On Saturday, May 17, Emily Sirtout was filled with excitement as she headed to IVC High School to attend her graduation ceremony — a day meant to mark new beginnings.

While on her way, her car unexpectedly broke down along Route 474. Thankfully, Emily was able to safely move the vehicle to the side of the road, and family came to pick her up, planning to retrieve the car the following morning.

On Sunday, May 18, as the family attempted to recover the vehicle, tragedy struck. The car malfunctioned and suddenly caught fire. Thankfully, no one was physically harmed, but the fire destroyed the vehicle and most of Emily’s personal belongings inside.

Like many teens, Emily kept many of her daily essentials and treasured items in her car — including clothes, makeup, a

saxophone, and countless other personal items. While it was initially believed everything was lost, we are grateful that she was eventually able to recover a few deeply meaningful mementos from her late sister and father.

Just days after graduating, Emily is now facing the emotional and financial burden of replacing her vehicle — a necessity to keep her new job and fulfill important family responsibilities. After insurance deductibles and paying off the remaining loan, very little will be left to put toward a new vehicle, let alone replacing the many personal items that were destroyed.

We are asking for your help to raise funds for a sizable down payment on a reliable vehicle, and to support Emily as she rebuilds after this devastating loss. Every donation, no matter the size, will make a difference in helping her move forward safely and confidently into this next chapter of life.

Thank you for your kindness and support. ❤️