Ray & Rose Newton

My Dad Raymond & Step Mom Rose have lived in Estero, Florida for over 20 years.

This week, Hurricane Ian destroyed their home, its contents, both vehicles, and boat.

Around 11 am that morning, I called to check on them and they were playing cards in the dining room, experiencing rain and wind, and feeling okay.

I called again an hour later and when Dad answered, I asked how things were going, and he was yelling that the house was filling up with water coming in the front door.

My feeling of panic and helplessness was unbearable, and all I could do was beg and plead with Dad to get out of the house as I feared it would continue to fill up and they would be trapped inside and drown.

Dad yelled and said they couldn't get out because the water surrounding the house was at least 12' high and the call dropped.

By the grace of God, at some point, they were able to slide the back sliding glass door open about 4 inches which allowed the water to run out onto the back patio which saved them all from drowning.

Since that day, I've had little contact with them due to no electricity and cell towers being down.

A co worker of Rose , showed up at their house yesterday and have been helping get personal items out that could be salvaged and have welcomed them to stay at their house in Naples until they can get things figured out with insurance, etc.

They are being told that their neighborhood most likely won't have electricity for at least 2-3 months, if that.

I anticipate that they will have many unexpected expenses and any help would truly be appreciated.

If you can't help, please pray for them and all Floridians dealing with this horrific situation.

Thank you so much

Kimberly