Jimmy Dean Brooks and Darlene Ashley Brooks, both in their 70s, along with their grandson Caden, lost everything last Friday during Helene! When the water rose to their front porch, they were able to make it to their van in an attempt to get to higher ground on their property. This saved them. They were trapped in their van for 2 days, as rescue workers couldn't get to them until Sunday. Trees fell, blocking access to them. Rescue workers and volunteers began cutting their way in and worked most of the day Sunday until they were finally rescued Sunday evening. All they were left with was the clothes they were wearing.

Jimmy Dean is a lifelong resident of Ashe County, a disabled veteran, and a well-known, extremely talented musician! Darlene is also a lifelong resident of Ashe County and worked serving the community through the Ashe County Sheriff’s Office and mental health. Darlene is currently battling stage 4 lung cancer. They are raising their grandson Caden (12 years old), who is a Shriners child and is being treated by the Shriners Hospital to find a cure.

As you can imagine, the illnesses they are fighting are already overwhelming, and now they are facing life without a home or any personal items, not to mention the irreplaceable items such as pictures and family heirlooms! Please help them get back to as much of a normal life as possible!