Hi, I am Nancy, I am fundraising for George Soto, my ex-husband and best friend. George has been living in Fremont, Seattle in the same house for over 20 years. It was a charming, modest, three story house subdivided into apartments with neighbors. Last Friday, October 10th, the house burned.

The fire started in George's apartment while he was home. He battled the flames to try to save his home but the fire moved too fast. He says the smoke was thicker than anything you've ever seen in movies. He couldn't see at all. He went back in the house to save his dog, Roscoe, who fortunately was not hurt. George was burned, though fortunately his burns are relatively minor. He had serious smoke inhalation and he had to be taken by ambulance to Harborview Medical Center where he stayed overnight in the burn unit. Roscoe went in the ambulance with him to the ER where he got a lot of love until I was able to pick him up.

We went over to the house today for the first time and it is a total loss. Everything that didn't outright burn is destroyed by smoke damage or heat. George is staying with me for now on my couch in my studio apartment. He has already had to spend a lot of money to replace his phone, his computer, and to get a basic wardrobe. He left the house barefoot literally with just the shirt on his back (and a pair of pants).

He is going to need help with move in expenses when he finds a new place to live and he is going to have to refurnish and replace housewares, bedding, clothes, kitchenware...everything...starting from absolutely nothing.

This is just a devastating, devastating loss. Home means so much for all of us and this has been George's home for so long. The loss is indescribable.

This is a situation where we need friends, family, and community to come together to help him get through this. This is more than one person can do alone. George is a treasured friend and family member and he needs our help. Please consider donating whatever you can if you are able and please share this fundraiser with your networks. Every donation will help George to get back on his feet and build a new home.

Thank you so much and much love.