Rally for Ida: Tragic Fire Recovery

Dear Friends, Family, and Kindhearted Strangers,

My name is Riley Hayhurst, and I am Ida’s granddaughter. I live in Lake County near by and my family and I have been spending as much time as possible to support her during this tragic time. The home that Ida built within the walls of that beautiful historic house hold so much weight and life long memories. My grandmother’s life was turned upside down by the Painesville house fire on Wednesday, January 15th. The home where she imagined to spend the entirety of her well deserved retirement was completely destroyed.

All that she built, every memory, every cherished item, has been reduced to charred remains and ashes. I thank God that’s all that was taken from her, I could have lost my grandmother that day. My mom could have lost her sole remaining parent, my cousins could have lost their favorite aunt, the list of her importance is infinite.

In the chaos of the evacuation, Ida was given just a few moments to leave her home, as time was fleeting she selflessly went back inside to warn other residents and save 2 dogs. As she scrambled for a fire extinguisher and frantically banged on doors- the safety of others was her top priority.

She wasn’t able to escape with any photos, important documents, or valuable personal keepsakes. The memories she has created have been lost, and she is now left trying to rebuild not just her life, but her sense of home.

Ida has always been strong and resilient, but at 78 years old, this tragedy has been incredibly hard to bear. She never imagined that an ordinary afternoon would turn into a total loss. Her need for support is urgent as she tries to figure out the next steps.

I am launching this to simply help my grandmother take the first steps toward recovery. The funds will go toward:

• Securing temporary housing.

• Replacing essential belongings.

• Rebuilding her sense of home.

While we are so grateful that she is safe, the loss is devastating. Ida has always been the first to lend a helping hand, and I hope to rally the same love and support she has shared with so many.

Any contribution, big or small, will make a tremendous difference. If you can’t donate, we ask for your prayers, shares, and words of encouragement to lift her spirits during this challenging time. This will aid in reducing as much stress on her as possible to try and ensure she can make it physically and mentally through this hardship.

GramI deserves it.

Thank you for your love, support, and kindness during this difficult time.