Really? Another house fire in the family? Well, we are as horrified and surprised as you. On Sunday afternoon, a fire started in my 16-year-old nephew’s room. In just a short time, most of his belongings, his computer, and precious keepsakes from my late father were lost. The fire left their home unlivable, with smoke and water damage everywhere. Now, my sister, nephew, their two dogs, and their cat are without a place to call home, trying to pick up the pieces after so much loss.

We were just heading out of town for a long-awaited river trip when we got the call that changed everything. It’s hard to put into words how much this hurts, especially after all the loss my family has faced in recent years. The funds raised here will help them replace my nephew’s computer so he can keep up with school, salvage and clean anything that isn’t too damaged, secure a storage unit for what they can save, and get their pets the vet care they need after being exposed to smoke.

I am so grateful to be part of such a caring community. Your support—whether it’s a donation or simply sharing their story—means the world to us. Thank you for helping my family find hope and stability during this incredibly difficult time.