Help Michael and Ashley Rebuild After Sever Windstorm

A severe windstorm hit the South Anchorage hillside on January 11th-12th. Bear Valley is one of the highest points above Anchorage. Gusts of wind were hitting our daughter and son-in-law's (Michael and Ashley) house for almost 24 hours. Reports of up to 125-130 mph winds ripped through their house. They have two little boys and one on the way. The wind blew out their doors, windows, garage door, etc. They grabbed the boys, walking barefoot through the shattered glass, and got in their truck. They said they had to get out of the truck to move trees that had dropped on the road and actually had to drive over the big ones. Michael, Ashley, the boys, and the dogs got to our house wet, scared, and emotionally devastated. They finally got back up the road to check on the house after the wind started to die down---what they found was a disaster and so heartbreaking.

Michael and Ashley have been building their home for the last two years and had finally moved in this last fall. They thought all their battles had been conquered this Christmas as they finally got to enjoy the fruits of their labor. If you've ever built a house, you know the challenges and stress. They just felt like they finally had their home! And then the wind blew it in. I can't even imagine what they are going through. They do have insurance. But we know how that battle goes. They are going to take a huge loss on this. They are now without a home. Fortunately, they have family and friends who love them and they are always welcome to stay with us.

Michael, my husband, two sons, and daughter's boyfriend spent the last 6 hours shoveling snow out of their living room and bedrooms, securing the holes that used to be called windows, making sure boards are up, and getting the place secure. There is now an ice buildup on all the walls so if it starts to warm up, we will have a water issue. But one thing at a time. Wind is supposed to hit again tonight so we just wanted to make sure more damage doesn't happen.

These poor kids are just in a nightmare. We as a family are just so grateful for everyone's safety.

We are fundraising to help Michael and Ashley rebuild their home and cover the costs that insurance won't cover.