My Dad lives in Puerto Rico

When Hurricane Maria hit Puerto Rico "everything collapsed simultaneously" across the island. We would never think about being in a situation with today's technology where you could not contact your family member in an emergency. My sister and I have been in this devastating situation for the past 17 days since Hurricane Maria hit Puerto Rico because our father lives there. Watching the news and the apocalyptic devastation throughout the island while not being able to do anything about it, as each day passed, has been the most helpless and heartbreaking feeling we have  ever experienced.  Not being able to help someone you love because you can't  communicate with them or know if they are ok has been torturous. We are happy and  relieved to report we finally heard from my father today! When his name came across my cell phone a few hours ago, my heart sank as I anxiously answered it, thanked God, broke down, and immediately called my sister on 3-way! As we all cried in relief and literally longed to reach through the phone and hug him, he told us that he was ok but as we heard in his story and voice, it has been an extremely stressful and trying time for him as a 74 year old man who lives alone. 
 Half of his roof is missing, his water tank has completely blown away from the roof, a wall has separated from his house, and he has extreme water damage to ceilings, interior walls, floors and all of his furniture and bedding will have to be thrown away. I am reaching out to family and friends that have graciously reached out to us asking how they can help. My sister and I felt that this would be the easiest way for people to conveniently come together and do just that! Your prayers and concern have been heartwarming and sincerely appreciated. From the bottom of our hearts we thank you!

Melinda Mammi
& Natalie Roye