On Wednesday, July 15, 2026, in broad daylight, a fast-moving fire burned Sam and Sheryl’s recently finished small cottage to the ground. The cottage was their retirement home, built after they moved to California three years ago to be near her son’s family and spend time with their only grandchild, Isla. The building of the cottage was funded by the sale of their previous home in Washington state. Along with the home, they lost a storage area filled with belongings that were slowly being merged into their new house to make it a home.

At this point, Sam and Sheryl are still in shock. Many hours of planning the physical attributes of their new home, combined with their hands-on labor, had occupied their days before the fire. There are surely still tears to be shed as they process this loss. Donations will immediately be available to replace items needed for day-to-day existence. Temporary housing and the replacement of items necessary to create a comfortable living space for this precious couple may be top on the list today, but as the shock wears off, a new vision will begin to grow. Rebuilding with no insurance seems an impossible obstacle, but your support can help them find hope and stability.

Sam and Sheryl have friends and relatives across our country. They are not likely to ask for help. I know this fire is going to steal their energy and limit any immediate ambition. Donations will speak volumes of your desire to support Sam and Sheryl through this unexpected disaster, but a second way to support them is to share this fundraiser with your friends and family. A natural hazard like a fast-moving wildfire needs more than our intimate friends to stand with us. Share the given link to share Sam and Sheryl's story.