The recent hurricane in the Asheville area has devastated our good friend, my former neighbor, and long-time Lago Vista resident Leigh Dougherty. After tirelessly and patiently taking care of her mother Betty for four years until her mother succumbed to advanced Alzheimer’s, Leigh finally bought her dream house outside Asheville this summer. She spent months renovating her house and had just moved in when Hurricane Helene hit. A dam broke and flooded her house so quickly that she and her animals were trapped inside trying to avoid the rising water! She was so blessed to escape with her life and her pets, but her newly renovated home was destroyed. She is facing the daunting task of rebuilding her home and her life. Leigh is the kindest, most selfless person I’ve ever met. She was an active member of the Lago Vista Lions Club just like her father Jim. Leigh would do anything for anyone. I’m hoping we can show her that same kindness by gathering some money to help her rebuild since she did not have flood insurance. All funds will go directly to Leigh, and any amount would be greatly appreciated.