Hello, my name is Emily and I created this fundraiser for my dad, Parker. Thank you all for being here. I never thought I'd be sitting here today writing my dad's story for a fundraiser. As I'm still processing the incredible devastation caused by Hurricane Ian, I am heartbroken for South West Florida and the beautiful island of Sanibel my dad calls home.

I know we are all eager to hear the details of how my dad survived this catastrophic event. On Friday, the Florida Search & Rescue, US Coast Guard, and the Sanibel Fire Rescue got him off the island. His life has been turned upside down. Thinking about how much he and the Sanibel community has lost is beyond heartbreaking. But, he is alive, and not only is he alive, he is also a hero. To say I am a proud daughter is an understatement.

The next few days, weeks, and months are going to be hard, but I know how eager he is to help the community recover. While I am miles away from him in Oregon, I want to do everything I can to help my dad through this time, which is why I have created this fundraiser to help him get back on his feet after losing so much. Here is what we know he has lost:

Around this time last month, I was fortunate enough to visit my dad on Sanibel. It was such a beautiful visit and I am incredibly thankful my heart is filled with wonderful memories of the island. It is surreal. My favorite part of the visit was seeing how much my dad had immersed himself into the community. I remember how proud he was as he took me on a tour to his favorite places on the island and showed me all the volunteer efforts he has been a part of to help keep the beaches clean. It was really inspiring.

Any donation is appreciated and your continued support, thoughts, and prayers have meant so much to my dad. I knew my dad was loved by so many, but after receiving so many messages from his friends, I am even more proud to be his daughter. You all are so wonderful and I am truly thankful for those who messaged me during this intense time. It brought me so much comfort seeing how many care about him.

Thank you all,

Emily