On Monday after Dan came home from dropping off Anabell (16) at school, the fire alarm upstairs went off. When Dan checked on it he found her room was on fire. He fought to keep it contained to her room, unfortunately to the detriment of his face and hands. I called 911 and after the longest 1 minute hold I was able to alert the fire department. In the course of 8 minutes, the fire took out Anabell’s room, and all her belongings, while the smoke took out the rest of the house making it unlivable.
Dan and I were both taken via ambulance and checked out at the hospital. I was checked out and fine but Dan took more of a beating, he got facial burns, smoke inhalation, and his eyes were burned. Thankfully nothing life-threatening but it took a bit of healing.
As of now, we’re all safe and the animals are accounted for. We’ve been bouncing around hotels and Airbnb (thank you April!) as we’re waiting for long-term housing. Our process could take up to a year to get back into the house. But again, we’re all safe and together, that’s the important part!
We currently don’t need much as a family, what we do need unfortunately is some help getting things for Anabell. Her room and all her belongings are a total loss. Insurance will decide the amount at a depreciated value for the items lost. This is provided towards the end of the claim.
We are asking for help however you feel comfortable giving. If you happen to have any extra clothes that you don’t use anymore (her style is cottage goth), a gift card, or if you have any leftover art supplies. Or if you don't have much please don’t worry about it, please, we don’t want to put anyone out.
Last, but absolutely not least, we’d like to say a big “Thank you” to our friends who kicked it into high gear helping us on day 1, and who have continued to be available and so incredibly supportive. Between rides, dog and cat sitters, food, and emotional support, we owe you all a dinner after this. We love you and we don’t know what we’d do without you all! Our parents drove up the next day to make sure we were okay and checked on the kiddos for us. Thank you all!