See news report here:

https://www.ctvnews.ca/toronto/article/four-hospitalized-including-2-children-in-fire-at-st-james-town-highrise/

At 3:00 AM on Tuesday, August 4th, a fast-moving fire destroyed my neighbors’ home. While the smoke from my balcony was terrifying, what happened inside Nahom and Ubah’s apartment was an act of pure, selfless courage.

When fire erupted in their living room, Nahom immediately guided his family into the hallway. But in the pitch-black smoke and chaos, their little daughter, Eldana was missing.

She instinctively retreated toward the fresh air of the balcony—a natural reaction for someone trying catch a breath of fresh air at home.

Without a second of hesitation, Nahom ran back into the inferno. Navigating blinding smoke and intense heat, he found Eldana and shielded her with his own body, wrapping her in his arms as he carried her through the flames to safety. Nahom absorbed a majority of the fire.

Nahom’s Critical Medical Status

Nahom paid an immense physical price for his bravery. He suffered severe second-degree burns across his body, including his face, and had critical smoke inhalation. He remains in the ICU in a medically induced coma while doctors stabilize his lungs and treat his burns. His path to recovery will be long, painful, and intensive, requiring specialized burn care and months of rehabilitation.

Who They Are:

Love, Hard Work, & Community

Before this nightmare, Nahom and Ubah were the warm, welcoming heart of our 8th floor—always ready with a gentle smile and a kind word. Nahom, originally from Ethiopia, and Ubah, originally from Somalia, met at their local gym in 2010.

What started as a chance meeting grew into a devoted marriage grounded in faith, deep cultural roots, and boundless love for their children. Over the years, they built a vibrant home filled with laughter and big dreams—a life they must now rebuild entirely from scratch.

Ubah’s Unshakable Strength

Today, Ubah is carrying an unimaginable load. Pregnant with their third child, she is caring for Eldana and Jacob as they heal, managing the reality that every single household possession along with their home they've known is now lost... while keeping vigil at Nahom’s bedside.

Yet, amidst the ashes, her faith remains unbroken.

To setup this GoFund Me. I had to meet with her to get you this story.

It was her gratitude above it all that moved me deeply:

"I cannot ask for more than what I have in this moment—we are still here. Praise God."

Nahom risked everything to save his family. Now, Ubah is holding their world together with incredible grace while waiting for her husband to wake up.

How Your Support Helps Them Rebuild

With Nahom unable to work and a newborn arriving soon, every dollar goes directly to Ubah and the children to cover immediate essentials:

Medical & Burn Recovery: Out-of-pocket medical expenses, specialized burn care supplies, and long-term rehab for Nahom and Eldana.

Housing & Document Replacement: Securing a safe rental home before their third child arrives, plus temporary emergency lodging. Replacing destroyed legal IDs, records, basic furniture, and kitchen necessities.

Essentials for the Kids & Baby on the way: Replacing clothing, shoes, food, toys, and daily comforts lost in the fire for Eldana and Jacob. Along with their new daughter on the way.

How You Can Stand with This Family

Leave a Message: Words of encouragement mean the world to Ubah right now as she reads through them.

Share: Please post this link in your community networks, group chats, workplaces, and social channels.

Donate: Any amount—$5, $10, or $100—directly eases the burden on Ubah while Nahom and their family continue to heal.