Help Us Replace My Grandma’s Car After a Terrifying Fire

All I can say is—God is good.

Last Sunday, while I was working at the shelter, I got a phone call that stopped me in my tracks. The caller asked for me by name, which isn’t unusual. But what came next, I never expected:

"Everyone is okay, but Layla and your mom were in a car fire."

My mom had been driving my daughter Layla home when she suddenly heard a loud pop. Smoke filled the car. The brakes failed—while she was going 70 mph on the highway.

She fought to stop the car, finally slamming it into park. It started to slow, and as it did, she only had time to get Layla out and get her away from the car.

By the grace of God, they made it out alive.

But everything else was lost:

My mom’s phone

Layla’s iPad (only 2 months old)

Their jackets, shoes, and clothes

All of my mom’s work supplies

And most devastating of all—my grandma’s only car

My mom had been borrowing the car because her own engine had gone out. Now, my grandmother—who lives on a fixed income—is left with nothing to drive and no way to replace it on her own.

This wasn’t just a car. It was her independence, her connection to her family and her community. It helped us whenever we needed and kept life moving.

What has stuck with us most, though, was the kindness of strangers. While some people drove by filming, many stopped to help. One man even ran to the other side of the burning car while my mom was getting layla, because he could tell there wasn't a lot of time and was making sure another child wasn't in there. That bravery will stay with us forever.

The photo you see was taken by an off-duty firefighter who, along with his family, helped bring my mom and Layla safely home. We’re beyond grateful.

Now, we’re doing everything we can to help replace my grandmother’s car. We’re hoping to raise $3,000 to get her a safe, basic, reliable vehicle—nothing fancy. This will also cover the title, registration, and some of the transaction fees.

If you’re able to give, we appreciate it more than words can say. If you can’t donate, sharing this helps more than you know.

Things can be replaced. My mom and daughter can’t.

And for their safety—and the incredible kindness of strangers—we are forever thankful.

Thank you, from the bottom of our hearts.