On March 3rd, I lost my house, I lost everything.

I'm Nik Popa..

My house burned down, early in the morning of Friday, March 3rd..

(Choosing to do this has been very hard for me and I have stalled it through the last few days.)

My 12yr old daughter, Audrey, had no school Friday and I convinced her to spend the night away from home, so I could work in the empty house I have been working on that would eventually be where I moved my parents. . Then, just after 1 am I was called by concerned neighbors and the fire department.. "Is there anyone in your house? Your house is on fire"

Many of you have followed the story. Many have asked how you can help..

Honestly, I have never been a charitable person, and I never reached out and asked for help before. I don't even think I'm the best person for this.. For the most part, I have lived a pretty simple life, no fancy stuff, just a lot of old things of sentimental value to me.. I don't have a fancy car, and I didn't own any clothes that would be considered expensive.. I have always tried to live within my means, cooked family meals at home over going out, etc.

I have a wonderful support system from so many people. I have a safe place to stay, but I lost pretty much everything but a few items. I never imagined how deep something like this could hurt.

I am now the poster child of anyone who does not have renter's insurance. I had it once and after a while, it felt like an unnecessary expense. Let this be my lesson for you.

Gone are my bedroom, kitchen, living room, washer & dryer, and some of my daughter's belongings including a ton of stuffed animals and her comfort and sensory items.

I'm rebuilding, we both have beds, and I just bought a few shirts, pants, socks, and underwear. Most of Audrey's clothes are at her mom's, thankfully..

I have replayed the night in my head, I kept wishing I would have stayed home, but I'm also told that there is a chance the fire would have taken us both.

The plan now is to start fresh. In the coming weeks, if not months, I am hoping to spend my time sorting what was salvaged and rebuilding what I had.

I'm thankful for every one of you who has reached out.. I'm praying no one thinks down on me and understands that I would rather be living in my old house with the memories and my sentimental items.

Full disclosure, I had planned a trip to Chicago months ago, and that is already paid for, any money I receive is for rebuilding not vacationing. I will disclose all things purchased to anyone who asks. I just need to rebuild and move forward.

I am also working on an Amazon list if anyone would rather see that. I believe you can leave me messages here or https://www.facebook.com/DjNikPopa if you would like my physical mailing address.

Thank you all,

Nik Popa