My name is Aaliceya, and I recently survived Hurricane Melissa in Jamaica. I returned home to Memphis on November 2nd, and it weighs heavy on my heart that some of the most amazing people who took care of me, my sister, and uncle (along with others) before, after, and during the hurricane unfortunately cannot run from their devastating reality.

Our friends Roshawn, Anthony, and Jodane from Deja Resort lost their homes or sustained horrible damage to their homes, making them uninhabitable, and also lost almost everything they owned. These guys were so amazing from day one. They worked DURING the hurricane and weren’t able to go check on their homes and families until two+ days after, only to find out their homes were destroyed. They returned to work with still the biggest smiles and warm hearts, even though their eyes held pain that was very evident.

Our friend Dayo from Chukka, who was our excursion shuttle driver, is of course now out of a job and has sustained water damage to his home. Dayo became our friend the moment he met us; he served a purpose. He played such a crucial role in us being comfortable during the hurricane and helping us get home.

It has been amazing but disheartening at the same time to return home to my everyday life while knowing the reality they are living in. Help me help them, please! Any funds donated will be split between them.